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Find Guildford to Reading bus tickets

from
Guildford, United Kingdom
to
Reading, United Kingdom

Why Choose Bus from Guildford to Reading

Traveling from Guildford to Reading offers various transportation options, each with its benefits. Choosing the right mode of transport is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable journey.

💰 Cost-Effectiveness

pros
  • Bus fares from Guildford to Reading are generally lower compared to train tickets, making it a budget-friendly option.
  • Traveling via bus offers a variety of discounts and passes, which can further reduce costs for frequent travelers.
cons
  • While the overall fare is lower, the duration of the trip can make it feel less economical if time is of the essence, as it takes approximately 2h 6m.

🛎️ Convenience of Transfers

pros
  • The bus service from Guildford station to Reading Railair via Heathrow Terminal 5 offers a straightforward transfer, minimizing the hassle of multiple connections.
  • The connections allow for flexibility in travel times, accommodating various schedules and needs.
cons
  • The necessity of transferring at Heathrow could be inconvenient for some, potentially leading to delays depending on transfer times.

⭐ Scenic Views

pros
  • The bus route from Guildford to Reading provides travelers with picturesque views of the countryside, creating a more enjoyable travel experience.
  • Travelers can relax and appreciate the scenery without the stress of driving.
cons
  • Scenic beauty might not be as captivating during night travel, where visibility could limit enjoyment of the landscape.

highlights:

The total travel time of over 2 hours should be factored in for those with tight schedules, particularly in comparison to quicker train alternatives.

Bus travel from Guildford to Reading is budget-friendly, making it accessible for all travelers.

The transfer at Heathrow provides an opportunity to explore an iconic location, even if briefly.

Travelers can enjoy the scenic views along the route, enhancing the overall journey experience.

Bus Options from Guildford to Reading

Typecompanydeparture stationarrival stationdeparture timearrival timeFrequencyDurationPrice Rangelayover city
ConnectingFirst BerkshireGuildford Railway Station, GuildfordReading Station, Reading09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:0010:10, 11:10, 12:10, 13:10, 14:10, 15:10Every hour2h 6m
£
10-15
Heathrow Terminal 5
ConnectingRailAirHeathrow Terminal 5, HeathrowReading Station, Reading10:15, 11:15, 12:15, 13:15, 14:15, 15:1511:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00Every hour44m
£
5-10

Comparison of Bus Operators from Guildford to Reading

Comparing bus operators servicing the route from Guildford to Reading is essential for ensuring travelers find the best options tailored to their needs. Key criteria for comparison include price, amenities, baggage policies, and accessibility, which all play a critical role in enhancing the travel experience.

CriteriaFirst Berkshire & The Thames ValleyRailAir
Price Range£ 15 - £ 30£ 12 - £ 28
pricing policies
refund policyRefunds available if canceled 24 hours before departure.No refunds once the ticket is purchased.
Ticket ChangesChanges allowed with a fee of £5, up to 2 hours before departure.Changes allowed for a charge of £2 per ticket, must be made 1 hour before departure.
discounts10% discount for students and seniors.20% discount available for round trip purchases.
amenitiesFree Wi-Fi, Onboard refreshments, Air conditioningPower outlets at seats, Free Wi-Fi, Complimentary bottled water
baggage allowance
free allowance1 large suitcase and 1 small carry-on per passenger.2 pieces of luggage with no weight limit.
Additional Fees£10 for any additional large bags.No additional fees for excess baggage.
accessibilityWheelchair accessible buses and designated seating available.Fully accessible coaches with ramp access for wheelchairs.

Both First Berkshire & The Thames Valley and RailAir offer competitive services for traveling from Guildford to Reading. First Berkshire provides more flexible ticketing with refunds and additional amenities like onboard refreshments. RailAir, while stricter on pricing policies, offers better baggage allowances and modern amenities. Travelers should choose based on their individual needs, such as budget constraints, preference for amenities, or baggage requirements.

Bus Stops and Stations from Guildford to Reading

Knowing the main bus stops and stations is essential for a smooth travel experience between Guildford and Reading.

Main Bus Stations in Guildford

Guildford Bus Station

Located in the city center, adjacent to the main shopping area and close to Guildford train station.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
  • Luggage storage lockers
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food and beverage options (cafés, vending machines)
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
  • Local buses serving multiple routes throughout Guildford
  • Guildford train station providing regional train services
  • Taxi and rideshare services readily available
  • Short-term and long-term parking facilities
  • Arrive at least 15 minutes before your bus departure for check-in.
  • Be aware of security checks when traveling to major cities.
  • Avoid peak hours (8-9 AM and 5-6 PM) to reduce crowding.
  • Explore nearby amenities like coffee shops and bakeries if you have extra time.

Main Bus Stations in Reading

Reading Bus Station

Centrally located in Reading, just a short walk away from the town center and Reading train station.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
  • Luggage storage units
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food outlets (cafés, kiosks)
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
  • Numerous local and regional buses operating from the station
  • Reading train station offering comprehensive rail services
  • Taxi ranks and rideshare options available outside the station
  • Ample parking for private vehicles nearby
  • Aim to arrive at least 10 minutes prior to your scheduled bus time to find your platform.
  • Check for any potential traffic disruptions along your route.
  • Consider avoiding rush hour (8-9 AM and 5-6 PM) to reduce waiting time.
  • If you have spare time, check out nearby shops and eateries within walking distance.

En Route Stops

Farnham

Duration: 10m

facilities

  • Restroom access
  • Small waiting area
  • Local food vendors

Bramley

Duration: 5m

facilities

  • Basic seating
  • No restroom facilities

Mortimer

Duration: 5m

facilities

  • No facilities available
  • Street parking for vehicles

Theale

Duration: 7m

facilities

  • Waiting shelter
  • Seating available

Familiarizing yourself with the bus stations in Guildford and Reading, as well as any significant stops along the route, will greatly enhance your travel experience. Plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Travel Tips

  • ⛰ Plan for Scenic Routes

    Take advantage of the scenic landscapes along the bus route from Guildford to Reading. The ride offers beautiful views of the Surrey countryside and the River Thames, especially near the town of Henley-on-Thames. Bring your camera to capture the picturesque settings!

  • 📍 Check for Local Events

    Before traveling, check the local events calendar for both Guildford and Reading. Festivals, markets, or community events can create additional traffic, so plan accordingly. This could also enrich your journey if you decide to join in on the festivities!

  • 🚍 Utilize Bus Amenities

    Many buses on this route come equipped with free Wi-Fi and charging ports. Make sure to bring your devices fully charged, but don't forget to use these amenities to stay connected or plan your arrival activities while on the road.

  • 🎭 Explore Local Delicacies

    Consider making a stop at local dining spots near the bus stations. Both Guildford and Reading have unique local eateries. Try some famous Surrey cream teas in Guildford or discover Reading's diverse dining options to enhance your travel experience.

  • 🏛 Be Mindful of Peak Times

    Travel during non-peak hours for a more comfortable journey. Mornings and late afternoons can get crowded due to commuter traffic, so aim for mid-morning or early afternoon buses for a quieter ride. This is especially beneficial for enjoying the scenic views!

FAQ

Yes, key stops include Guildford Bus Station, Godalming, and Henley-on-Thames before reaching Reading. Familiarize yourself with these stops for a smoother journey.
The journey typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and the specific service you choose. Always check real-time schedules for the most accurate travel times.
No specific travel documentation is required for this route, as both cities are within the UK. Just make sure you have your bus ticket ready.
Peak times are generally weekday mornings from 7 AM to 9 AM and late afternoons from 5 PM to 7 PM. Traveling outside these hours is recommended for a more relaxed experience.
Definitely! Consider a short stop in Godalming to explore its quaint high street or in Henley-on-Thames for stunning riverside views. Both towns offer a charming break from the journey.