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Oxford to Banbury train ticket prices

Travelling from Oxford to Banbury by train? Find fares from as low as £8.42. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.

Cheapest

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On Tue 26 May

Tue26 May
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Wed27 May
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Thu28 May
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Fri29 May
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Sat30 May
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Sun31 May
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Mon01 Jun

Oxford to Banbury train timetable

Travelling from Oxford to Banbury, the fastest train takes 17m with an average travel time of 18m. 40 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 00:22 and the last at 22:55. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.

Departs		Arrives	Operator
18:57 Oxford	31m, Direct	19:28 Banbury	Great Western Railway	Find tickets
19:16 Oxford	19m, Direct	19:35 Banbury	Great Western Railway	Find tickets
19:39 Oxford	17m, Direct	19:56 Banbury	CrossCountry	Find tickets
20:39 Oxford	18m, Direct	20:57 Banbury	CrossCountry	Find tickets
20:56 Oxford	27m, Direct	21:23 Banbury	Great Western Railway	Find tickets

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Oxford to Banbury train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Oxford to Banbury with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.

Price

From £8.42

Departure station

Oxford

Arrival station

Banbury

Distance

21 miles (34km)

Journey time

17m

First train

00:22

Last train

22:55

Frequency

Train operators

Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway

CrossCountry: Oxford to Banbury trains

Ride the rails to Banbury Cross in just over 15 minutes with a fast, direct CrossCountry service from Oxford – no stops, just a quick and easy journey straight to this historic market town. Travel through the Cherwell Valley from Oxford to Banbury, past lush meadows, winding rivers, and the rolling hills of North Oxfordshire.

CrossCountry runs one of the UK’s most far-reaching long-distance rail networks, stretching all the way from Penzance in Cornwall to Aberdeen in Scotland. With Birmingham at its centre, the network connects major cities all across the UK, including Manchester, Bristol, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Leeds.

Departing from Oxford

Just a 15-minute walk from Oxford’s historic city centre, Oxford station is one of the best-connected railway stations in Oxfordshire and easily accessible by bus, car or taxi with convenient drop-off points and regular local bus services right outside.

Managed by Great Western Railway, Oxford station offers fast and frequent services to London Paddington, London Marylebone, Reading, Worcester and Banbury, as well as CrossCountry trains connecting it with Manchester, Birmingham and the South Coast.

With step-free access throughout, lifts to all platforms, ticket machines, shops, cafés and public Wi-Fi, the station is well-equipped for every traveller. So, whether you’re commuting, exploring the Cotswolds or heading further afield, Oxford station offers fast, convenient links to all across the region and beyond.

Main stops

Travelling from Oxford to Banbury, you can opt for CrossCountry’s quick, direct service, or Great Western Railway’s slightly slower train calling at Tackley, Heyford and Kings Sutton before arriving into Banbury.

Arriving at Banbury

Just a ten-minute walk from the historic market town centre, Banbury railway station is a busy stop on the Chiltern Main Line. Managed by Chiltern Railways, the station offers step-free access, lifts, ticket machines, shops, cafés and public Wi-Fi.

Regular services run from here south to London Marylebone, north to Birmingham, and further afield via CrossCountry trains to Manchester, Reading, Southampton and Bournemouth. Great Western Railway also provides local links to Didcot Parkway, giving passengers a wide range of onward travel options.

Banbury is a historic market town on the River Cherwell, famed for its spiced Banbury cakes and the nursery rhyme “Ride a Cock Horse to Banbury Cross” immortalised in the town’s iconic statue of a Fine Lady riding a white horse. Visitors can also explore the Banbury Museum & Gallery or step back in time at Tooley’s Boatyard, one of Britain’s oldest working dry docks.

CrossCountry train classes

Standard Class: Enjoy comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi on your Oxford to Banbury train with CrossCountry, as well as onboard catering on many services. Whether you’re travelling on a high-speed Voyager or a regional Turbostar train, you can expect plenty of room and a welcoming service.
First Class: For an extra level of comfort, travel from Oxford to Banbury First Class and relax into wider reclining seats with extra legroom and at-seat tables – ideal for both working or just relaxing.

CrossCountry train travel advice

From luggage and bikes to travelling with children, pets and accessibility support, here’s everything you need to know before boarding your Oxford to Banbury train.

Luggage: Storage is limited, so CrossCountry advises bringing just one medium bag where possible. On Voyager trains, larger items can be stowed in luggage racks in Coaches D and J.
Bicycles: Standard bikes and e-bikes are welcome on board CrossCountry trains with a free reservation, while folding bikes can be brought on board anytime without advance booking. Please note, e-scooters are not permitted.
Children: Kids under five travel free of charge, while children aged 5-15 can enjoy 50% off standard fares. Families can save even more with a Family & Friends railcard, which gives adults a third off most fares and 60% off children’s fares.
Pets: Passengers can travel with up to two pets at no extra charge. Dogs must be kept on a lead or in a secure carrier, and all pets should remain off seats.
Passenger Assist: Passengers requiring extra support with boarding, handling luggage, navigating stations or wheelchair spaces can pre-book Passenger Assist when purchasing their ticket, or simply by asking staff at the station on the day for help.

Great Western Railway: Oxford to Banbury trains

Take the slower route from Oxford to Banbury and enjoy the ride – Great Western Railway’s direct stopping service takes around 30 minutes, winding through the picturesque Cherwell Valley and calling at Tackley, Heyford and King’s Sutton along the way.

Climb aboard your Oxford to Banbury train and enjoy classic views of the English countryside, from the green sweep of the Cherwell Valley to farmland and woodlands before arriving at the historic canal town of Banbury.

Great Western Railway runs both regional and long-distance services linking London Paddington with South Wales, the South West and the Cotswolds. From Oxford, you can catch direct trains to London as well as major destinations such as Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter St Davids and Penzance.

Great Western Railway train classes

Standard Class: Settle into your Oxford to Banbury train journey with spacious seating, free Wi-Fi and the option to enjoy freshly prepared food and drink from the onboard restaurant car on many Great Western Railway services.
First Class: Upgrade your Oxford to Banbury train to First Class for extra comfort with wider seats, more legroom, fast Wi-Fi and at-table plug or USB sockets. Selected services also include complimentary drinks and snacks.

Great Western Railway train travel advice

From luggage allowances and bike policies to travelling with children, pets or arranging assisted travel, it’s worth knowing the essentials before setting off on your Oxford to Banbury train:

Luggage: Passengers can bring up to three items on board Great Western Railway trains free of charge, including suitcases, holdalls or rucksacks. Luggage should be stored in overhead racks or in end-of-car luggage areas to keep aisles and doors clear.
Bicycles: Standard bikes and electric bikes are welcome on board Great Western Railway services with a free reservation, though space is limited so booking ahead is advised. Folding bikes are always permitted if stowed in racks, but e-scooters are not allowed.
Children: Kids under the age of five can travel free of charge, while children aged 5-15 are eligible for half-price fares. Teenagers aged 16-17 can also enjoy 50% off standard fares with a 16-17 Saver railcard.
Pets: Passengers may bring up to two pets on board at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead, while smaller animals should be transported in a secure carrier. Pets are not allowed on seats.
Passenger Assist: If you need extra support when boarding, handling luggage or navigating stations, you can pre-book Passenger Assist when buying your ticket, through the app or by requesting help from staff at larger stations on the day of travel.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Oxford to Banbury train travel guide

Taking the train from Oxford to Banbury is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Oxford, you can arrive at Banbury in just 17m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Oxford to Banbury?

The average ticket fare from Oxford to Banbury is about £8.42, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.

How do I find the best train route from Oxford to Banbury?

Make full use of the TrainPal app or website. Our Train Journey Planner is an excellent online planning tool. Simply fill in the cities or stations you depart from and arrive at. Then check timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and see if there are food supplies or other amenities you need. You can get the best train route from Oxford to Banbury.

What is the fastest train from Oxford to Banbury?

The quickest train journey from Oxford to Banbury takes 17m . Utilise our Train Journey Planner to locate direct trains, minimise transfers, and compare travel times across various routes. Discover the most efficient way to travel with fewer stops for a smooth and seamless journey.

Are there direct trains from Oxford to Banbury?

No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Oxford to Banbury. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.

Is it worth taking a train from Oxford to Banbury?

Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.

How far in advance can I book my train ticket?

You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.

Check timetables and during the journey

How do I find Oxford to Banbury train timetables?

While Oxford to Banbury trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from Oxford to Banbury is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.

How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?

Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed journey.

Do Oxford to Banbury trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Oxford to Banbury route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.

How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?

Transferring between train stations in the UK can be effortless with some planning. If your travel requires a transfer, review your ticket and journey details for specific transfer instructions. Major stations typically feature clear signage and helpful staff. Additionally, TrainPal Train Journey Planner offers comprehensive transfer details.

What is the difference between Standard and First Class?

Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by train operator.

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors can benefit from various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard offers students up to 1/3 off most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy similar savings. Both Railcards can be purchased online or at train stations and are valid for one year, providing great value for frequent travellers

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, the refund and exchange policies for train tickets vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. Advance Tickets are usually non-refundable but can sometimes be exchanged for a fee. Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets offer more generous refund and exchange options. Always check the terms and conditions of your ticket or visit UK train ticket types for specific details.

How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.

Which train companies operate the Oxford to Banbury route?

The Oxford to Banbury route is operated by Chiltern Railways. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the results.

Essential onboard rules and facilities

Luggage
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
Bicycle
Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted. We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.
Children
Children under 5 typically travel for free. A 50% discount applies to children aged 5 to 15. Additionally, those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for a 50% discount with a 16-17 Saver Railcard.
Pets
Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier. Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
Passenger assistance
Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.

How to buy cheap Oxford to Banbury train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.

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Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

For step-by-step guidance on amending your journey or applying for a refund, please access our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

For information on claiming Delay Repay compensation due to a delayed, cancelled, or strike-affected service, consult our delays and disruptions page or our UK rail strike page. These pages also provide live service updates.

More train routes

Trains from Oxford	Trains from Banbury
Oxford to Manchester Piccadilly	Banbury to Birmingham Moor Street
Oxford to Birmingham	Banbury to Oxford
Oxford to Coventry	Banbury to Coventry
Oxford to London	Banbury to London Paddington
Oxford to Reading	Banbury to London Marylebone

* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.

Oxford to Banbury Trains From £8.42*

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