
Trains to Reading
There is more to this town than being the host to one of England’s biggest music festivals.
Just about 30 minutes from London by train, the town is well worth a visit for its rich history of the city, with evidence of habitation starting from the 8th century to the present day. There are plenty of high street shops if you need to grab essentials, and you aren’t far from open green spaces or historical sites.
Popular Routes to Reading
Reading station is the second largest interchange outside of London connections to and from London and other areas in the UK with millions of passengers travelling through every year. Close to the town centre, the station is fully facilitated with toilets and baby changing facilities, shops and step-free access throughout.
The most popular routes to and from Reading operate from the following stations:
From |
To |
Average Travel Time* |
London |
Reading |
25 min |
Bristol |
Reading |
1 h 10 min |
Nottingham |
Reading |
2 h 52 min |
Manchester |
Reading |
3 h 15 min |
Birmingham |
Reading |
1 h 35 min |
* Please note journey times are based on average and may vary depending on the rail provider and time of travel.
Cheap Tickets to Reading
Railcards offer value for money if you travel by train, saving you at least 1/3 on most rail fares. With a bit of planning, buying tickets in advance can save you a pretty pound, and if the travel bug has you travelling a lot then a Railcard might be worth your while!
The Railcards available include:
Adults
· 16-25 Railcard
· Two Together Railcard
· Family & Friends Railcard
· Senior Railcard
· Disabled Persons Railcard
· Network Railcard
· 26-30 Railcard
Visit the Railcard Website and buy a Railcard Now!
You may also want to check out our Regional Railcards to see if there are discounts for travelling to and from where you are.
Children
Under 5 | Travel free, accompanied by a fare-paying passenger. |
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5-15 | Are eligible for a 50% discount on most tickets, though proof of age will need to be carried where appropriate. |
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16-17 Saver | Like a Railcard but with bigger discounts for anyone aged 16 or 17. |
When in Reading
Home to a number of historic objects from the town and around the world, Reading Museum features a Victorian copy of the Bayeux Tapestry and a collection of Huntley & Palmers biscuit tins paying homage to the biscuit makers that pioneered mass production biscuit making.
Caversham Court is a lovely garden on the grounds of a former mansion that has previously housed some of the most powerful families in Reading. Situated by the river Thames and listed in the English Heritage ‘Register of Historic Parks and Gardens of special historic interest in England’, you can enjoy the garden all year round and enjoy a coffee, selection of teas and cakes at the kiosk with proceeds going to charity.
Explore and save
Interested in exploring more of what Reading and Berkshire have to offer? Check out our Days Out Guide for great deals on attractions and activities.
Ready to go?
Use our Journey Planner and book your tickets now!
Last updated: 11 October 2021