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Manchester to Reading from $19: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Manchester, United Kingdom
to
Reading, United Kingdom

How to Get from Manchester to Reading: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$19 by busBest price
242.8 kmDistance
3h 16m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Manchester to Reading with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
CrossCountry
Train
Average Duration
3h  16m
Estimated price
$100-290
Recommended
Company
Megabus UK
Bus
Average Duration
4h  40m
Estimated price
$19-28
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 242.8 km
Duration: 3h 16m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  18m
Estimated price
$60-90
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
6h  7m
Estimated price
$75-369
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
3h  22m
Estimated price
$76-344

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $25 $25 $39 $16 $25 $21 $20
Train $63 $42 $29 $33 $31 $44 $61
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Manchester to Reading

Traveling from Manchester to Reading offers a journey from the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of a northern city to the charming, more serene vibes of a historic market town.

Best Neighbourhoods in Reading

Reading boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct charm and experiences.

Caversham
• Picturesque riverside walks along the Thames.
• Vibrant café culture with local favorites.
Reading Town Centre
• Home to shopping hotspots and dining options.
• Bustling atmosphere with frequent events and festivals.
Tilehurst
• Peaceful parks perfect for leisurely strolls.
• Family-friendly environment with strong community feel.

Best Times To Visit Reading's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience at Reading's attractions.

Reading Abbey Ruins
Visit early morning on weekdays for a tranquil atmosphere.
Forbury Gardens
Late afternoon on sunny days offers beautiful light and fewer crowds.
The Oracle Shopping Centre
Weekday afternoons provide a quieter shopping experience.

Reading Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Reading experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters, making spring and early autumn ideal for outdoor activities. Be mindful of occasional rainfall throughout the year, as it can influence your travel plans and choices for indoor versus outdoor attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Reading

Consider trying the authentic Berkshire lamb at The Brownlow Arms, where a cozy, rustic atmosphere pairs with locally sourced ingredients to create a distinctly different culinary experience from Manchester's lively dining scene. The focus on traditional recipes and local flavors in Reading brings a comforting charm that invites you to savor the essence of the region.

Manchester - Reading operators

Explore transport companies operating between Manchester and Reading, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
0344 736 9123
Website
https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/

Train from Manchester Piccadilly to Reading

Average Duration
3h 16m
Estimated price
$100-290
Contact phone
+44 3457 000 125
Website
https://www.gwr.com/

Train from Paddington to Reading

Average Duration
36m
Estimated price
$21-55

Train from Gatwick Airport to Reading

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$30-75
Contact phone
0343 222 1234
Website
https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/elizabeth-line/

Train from Paddington to Reading

Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$11-28
Bus Show bus routes
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Shudehill Interchange to Station North Interchange

Average Duration
4h 40m
Estimated price
$19-28
Plane Show flights
Website
http://britishairways.com

Plane from Manchester (MAN) to London Heathrow (LHR)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$55-330
Website
http://easyjet.com

Plane from Manchester (MAN) to London Gatwick (LGW)

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
$85-370

Manchester to Reading: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Manchester and Reading offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Manchester to Reading, covering a distance of 300.9 km in approximately 3 hours and 18 minutes. 💸 Enjoy the flexibility of varied pricing options ranging from £47 to £71 for your journey by car from Manchester to Reading.
Average price
£47 - £70
🚆 The journey from Manchester to Reading by train takes approximately 3 hours and 16 minutes. Services are operated by CrossCountry and depart hourly, providing a convenient travel option for passengers. 🚆 There is a direct train route from Manchester Piccadilly to Reading station. The distance covered during the journey is approximately 291 km, making it a comfortable and efficient way to travel between the two cities. 🚆 Ticket prices for the train between Manchester and Reading can vary from £79 to £229, offering passengers flexibility in choosing their travel options based on budget and schedule preferences.
Departure Point
Manchester Piccadilly station
Arrival Point
Reading station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your Manchester to Reading train trip include catering options provided by operators such as Avanti West Coast and Great Western Railway. Avanti offers a food service with a selection of light meals, snacks, and beverages in both standard and first-class services, while Great Western Railway has a similar offering with a focus on local produce, including hot and cold food options available from their at-seat service. Be sure to check the specific train service you are taking for exact catering details.
• You can choose from various seating options on your train journey. Avanti West Coast's trains typically offer First Class and Standard Class seating, with First Class featuring more spacious seats, complimentary food and drink, and quieter carriages. Great Western Railway offers Standard and First Class as well, with added perks in First Class such as wider seats and power sockets. Always compare the seat booking options to choose the best experience for your needs.
• The main operators on the Manchester to Reading route include Avanti West Coast (avantiticket.com) and Great Western Railway (gwr.com). Make sure to check their respective websites for ticket purchases, schedules, and any service updates. Additionally, consult the National Rail website (nationalrail.co.uk) for comprehensive information on train times and route changes.
• Upon arrival at Reading Station, you may find the station bustling with activity. It is beneficial to know that Reading Station offers luggage storage facilities at the left luggage office, allowing you to explore the city unencumbered. Restroom facilities are available, and while there aren’t shower facilities at the station, you can find nearby hotels or gyms if you need to freshen up after your trip.
• To reach Reading city center from the train station quickly, you can take the bus. The most efficient route is the Green Line bus service, route 703, which departs regularly from the station and takes around 15 minutes to get to the city center. Alternatively, taxis and ride-share options are readily available outside the station for a more direct and comfortable journey.
🛫 Flying from Manchester to Reading is a quick and convenient way to travel, with a direct flight taking just 1 hour.
Departure Point
Manchester Airport
Arrival Point
London Heathrow Airport
🚌 Traveling from Manchester to Reading by bus is a convenient option with direct services operating five times a day. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes. 🌍 For an alternative route taking around 6 hours and 28 minutes, with a transfer, you can take a Megabus from Manchester Shudehill Interchange to London Heathrow Airport Terminal 2 and 3. From there, catch a bus to Central Reading, which takes about 1 hour and 1 minute. 🎫 Prices for buses between Reading and Manchester vary from £15 to £22.
Departure Point
Shudehill Interchange station
Arrival Point
Station North Interchange
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to book your Megabus UK ticket in advance to secure the best prices, as fares range from £14 to £21; you can do this through their website at megabus.com
• When arriving at Station North Interchange in Reading, be prepared for a busy area; follow the signs for taxis and buses carefully, as you will find local transport options readily available outside the station.
• If you have some time before your next connection or want to explore Reading, consider walking to the nearby Oracle shopping center; it’s a great place for dining options and is just a 15-minute walk from the station.

Trips from Manchester

Trips to Reading