It takes an average of 1h 7m to travel from London to Reading by train, over a distance of around 36 miles (59 km). There are normally 403 trains per day travelling from London to Reading and tickets for this journey start from £16.80 when you book in advance.
First train | 02:34 | |
---|---|---|
Last train | 01:42 | |
Departure station | London | |
Arrival station | Reading | |
Journey time | From 22m | |
Distance | 36 miles (59 km) | |
Frequency | 403 trains per day | |
Changes | Direct trains available | |
Price | From £16.80 | |
Train operators |
Considering a trip to Berkshire and need more information on the journey by train to Reading from London? Look no further!
Generally, the train from London to Reading takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes but can take just 23 minutes on the quickest services. With around 319 direct trains running on this popular route each day, you can make yourself comfortable as you don’t need to worry about making any changes.
On this route, you can travel with either Great Western Railway (GWR), South Western Railway (SWR) or the Elizabeth Line (previously TfL Rail). With GWR and the Elizabeth Line, you’ll depart from London Paddington station, whereas with SWR, your journey will start at London Waterloo station. No matter who you decide to travel with, your train will arrive at Reading station.
From the station, you’re a short walk from the town centre and some of the local landmarks, including Reading Museum and Reading Abbey Ruins. In August, the town is also home to one of the UK’s biggest music events – Reading Festival.
If you’d like to book cheap train tickets, travel at Off-Peak times, as tickets are usually cheaper during quieter travel times on weekdays and weekends. If you travel by train fairly frequently, why not get a Railcard? You’ll save up to 1/3 on eligible journeys for a whole year.
Ready to book? Start your search for cheap train tickets from London to Reading in our Journey Planner at the top of the page. For more information, scroll down for train timetables, FAQs and tips on finding cheap train fares.
The average journey time by train between London and Reading is 1 hour and 7 minutes, with around 403 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
The fastest journey time by train from London to Reading is 22 minutes.
Train ticket prices from London to Reading can start from as little as £16.80 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.
Yes, it is possible to travel from London to Reading without having to change trains. There are 403 direct trains from London to Reading each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
The first train from London to Reading leaves at 02:34. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
The last train from London to Reading leaves at 01:42. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
Trains travelling from London to Reading cover a distance of around 36 miles (59 km) during the journey.
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Reading to London.
Look out for Advance tickets – they usually come out up to 12 weeks before the departure date and can be cheaper than buying on the day. If you’re here a tad early, sign up for our Advance ticket alert today to get notified when your tickets are released.
If you catch this train more than 3 times per week, you could save money with a Season Ticket. With annual, monthly and weekly options available, find out if a season ticket for London to Reading is right for you.
National Railcards offer a 1/3 off eligible train tickets in the UK and can be a great investment if you travel a few times or more in a year. Find out how you can save with a National Railcard here.
Download our app to find split tickets — courtesy of SplitSave, our handy feature which 'splits' your train tickets where possible to find you a better deal. Learn more about the clever tech behind split tickets, and how to spot SplitSave discounts in our app.
For more money-saving tips on UK and European train travel, read our cheap train tickets guide.