CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
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Each fare is the lowest adult economy ticket fare found by our customers on Trainline. Fares booked further in advance than the dates displayed may be cheaper. Prices are updated daily, subject to change and indicative of price last update. Limited availability. Discount cards and coach journeys excluded, prices exclusive of booking fee.
Trains to Birmingham from Reading
It takes an average of 1h 34m to travel from Reading to Birmingham by train, over a distance of around 81 miles (130 km). There are normally 37 trains per day travelling from Reading to Birmingham and tickets for this journey start from £14.90 when you book in advance.
| First train | 05:15 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 21:15 | |
| Departure station | Reading | |
| Arrival station | Birmingham | |
| Journey time | From 1h 27m | |
| Distance | 81 miles (130 km) | |
| Frequency | 37 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Price | From £14.90 | |
| Train operators |
Travel by train from Reading to Birmingham
Looking to travel from Reading to Birmingham by train? You've come to the right place!
Generally, the train from Reading to Birmingham takes around 1 hour 34 minutes, but can take just 1 hour 27 minutes on the fastest services. There are up to 37 trains per day from Reading to Birmingham.
Direct trains are available on this route.
CrossCountry trains operate on this route.
Book your ticket from £14.90 for this journey. Booking early is one of the most effective ways to save money.
Start your search for train tickets from Reading to Birmingham in our Journey Planner.
What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Reading to Birmingham?
Want to know more about your journey from Reading to Birmingham? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
Can you take a train directly from Reading to Birmingham?
How close is Reading to Birmingham by train?
Is it possible to get from Reading to Birmingham without flying?
What is the best way to travel from Reading to Birmingham?
What time does the first train from Reading to Birmingham leave?
What time does the last train from Reading to Birmingham leave?
How often are trains from Reading to Birmingham?
Do you need to book the train from Reading to Birmingham in advance?
Can you buy return train tickets from Reading to Birmingham?
How do I find cheap train tickets from Reading to Birmingham?
As most UK train companies increase their prices as the departure date approaches, our Trainline team of experts have put together these tips to help you find the cheapest tickets.
1. Book in advance
Train tickets from Reading to Birmingham start at £14.90§ one way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. UK train companies usually release Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of time, and these can be cheaper than tickets bought on the day of travel.
2. Sign up to Ticket Alert
If you're planning a trip more than 12 weeks ahead, sign up to our Ticket Alert to get notified when Advance tickets are released for your travel date.
3. Use a Railcard
National Railcards offer a 1/3 off eligible train tickets in the UK and can be a great investment if you travel throughout the year. Buy one with us and you'll be able to store it digitally in our app, so you'll always have it on your travels.
4. Book split tickets
Our handy feature SplitSave will 'split' your train journey into multiple tickets, which can be much cheaper than buying a single ticket. Find out more about split tickets.
5. Travel Off-Peak
If you can be flexible with your travel times, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets are usually cheaper in the UK. Generally, Off-Peak times are any time at weekends and outside of Monday to Friday morning and evening rush hours.
6. Consider a Season Ticket
Best for commuters, if you catch a train on the same route more than 3 times per week, you could save money with a Season Ticket. With annual, monthly, weekly and flexi options available, find out if a Season Ticket for Reading to Birmingham is right for you.
For more money-saving tips on UK and European train travel, read our cheap train tickets guide.
§Advance adult single fare. Excludes booking fee. Prices seen by Trainline customers in the last 30 days. Availability limited.