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Trains from Reading to Southend Central

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Great Western Railway
Greater Anglia

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  1. Home
  2. Train times
  3. Reading to Southend Central

Trains to Southend Central from Reading

First train

02:54

Last train

02:24

Departure stationReading
Arrival stationSouthend Central
Journey time

From 1h 59m

Distance

73 miles (117 km)

Frequency

132 trains per day

Changes

1 change

Train operators

Great Western Railway, Greater Anglia, London Overground, c2c

What are the train times from Reading to Southend Central?

Check out the next trains departing from Reading to Southend Central for Tuesday 27th October 2026 using our handy timetable below, including platform and live travel information. You can view the full day timetable or search for a different date here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
13:3515:402h 5m, 3 changes
13:4215:582h 16m, 3 changes
13:4915:582h 9m, 3 changes
13:4916:082h 19m, 3 changes
13:5916:292h 30m, 2 changes
14:0016:102h 10m, 3 changes
14:0416:102h 6m, 3 changes
14:1216:292h 17m, 3 changes
14:1916:292h 10m, 3 changes
14:2916:412h 12m, 3 changes

Travelling from Reading to Southend Central by train

If you're planning to travel from Reading to Southend Central, we're here to help!

On average, the train journey from Reading to Southend Central takes around 2 hours 38 minutes. There are normally 132 trains per day travelling from Reading to Southend Central.

You'll have to make 1 change on your journey to Southend Central, as there are no direct trains.

Trains on this route are operated by Great Western Railway, Greater Anglia, c2c and London Overground.

Save money on your train tickets by booking in advance.

Use our Journey Planner to compare ticket prices and find the cheapest fares.

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Reading to Southend Central?

Want to know more about your journey from Reading to Southend Central? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do you travel to Southend Central from Reading?

To get to Southend Central from Reading, why not take the train? With 132 trains per day and an average journey time of 2 hours and 38 minutes, taking the train is a great way to travel. See our Journey Planner for up-to-date times and prices.

How long does it take to get from Reading to Southend Central by train?

On average, it takes around 2 hours and 38 minutes to travel from Reading to Southend Central by train, although you can get there in 1 hour and 59 minutes on the fastest services. With 132 trains per day running on this route, journey times may vary, so check our Journey Planner for more information.

How fast can trains travel from Reading to Southend Central?

The fastest time a train can travel the 73 miles (117 km) from Reading to Southend Central is 1 hour and 59 minutes.

Are there any direct trains from Reading to Southend Central?

There are no direct trains that run between Reading and Southend Central. You’ll need to make at least 1 change along the way.

How do I find cheap train tickets from Reading to Southend Central?

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. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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 Southend Central 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.
† Average savings on advance fares booked at least one week before day of travel vs Anytime fares purchased on day of travel. Subject to availability. Excludes coach.

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