Birmingham to Reading from $14: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

How to Get from Birmingham 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.

$14 by busBest price

82 milesDistance

1h 38m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Birmingham 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.

See more options

Sort by

Browse car rentals Explore flights

Traveling From Birmingham to Reading

This journey connects Birmingham's vibrant urban energy with Reading's historic charm, offering you a fitting blend of modern city life and quaint countryside vibes.

Best Neighbourhoods in Reading

Reading offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.

Caversham

• Scenic riverside views along the Thames

• Vibrant café culture and local shops

Greyfriars

• Historic architecture and beautiful gardens

• Close proximity to Reading's shopping areas

West Reading

• Lively atmosphere with trendy bars and eateries

• Easy access to parks and green spaces

Best Times To Visit Reading's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience in Reading.

Reading Abbey Ruins

Visit early on weekdays or late afternoon for quieter exploration.

The Oracle Shopping Centre

Mornings or weekday afternoons are ideal to avoid busy crowds.

Forbury Gardens

Visit during weekdays or early evenings for a peaceful stroll.

Reading Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Reading experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and warm summers, making spring and early autumn the best times to explore. Weather can influence your travel plans, so packing layers and being prepared for occasional rain helps ensure a comfortable visit.

Dining Recommendation in Reading

Try the traditional English fish and chips at The Fisherman's Cottage, where the focus on locally sourced ingredients delivers an unforgettable flavor that stands apart from Birmingham's diverse culinary scene. The cozy pub atmosphere enhances the experience, offering a distinctly local vibe that invites you to relish each bite in a charming setting.

Birmingham - Reading operators

Explore transport companies operating between Birmingham 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 Birmingham New Street to Reading

Average Duration

1h 38m

Estimated price

$60-160

Bus Show bus routes

Website

https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Navigation Street to Station North Interchange

Average Duration

2h 25m

Estimated price

$14-20

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

Traveling between Birmingham 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 journey from Birmingham to Reading covering a distance of 154.5 km, perfect for a weekend road trip adventure through the English countryside. 💰 Discover cost-effective travel options with prices ranging from £24 to £39 for the drive from Birmingham to Reading, providing flexibility for budget-conscious travelers seeking a convenient transportation choice. 📍 In just under 2 hours, immerse yourself in the cultural charm of Reading as you cruise along the well-connected roads, making this car journey a seamless and enjoyable experience for exploring new destinations.

Average price

£23 - £39

🚆 Departing from Birmingham New Street, you can catch a direct train to Reading operated by CrossCountry. 🌳 Enjoy a pleasant 1 hour and 38-minute journey through scenic landscapes as you make your way from Birmingham to Reading by train. Relax and unwind during the comfortable ride aboard the CrossCountry service. 🎫 Ticket prices for the train journey between Birmingham and Reading range from £47 to £126, offering flexibility to choose a fare that suits your budget and preferences.

Departure Point

Birmingham New Street station

Arrival Point

Reading station

Useful tips for train travellers

• On the route from Birmingham to Reading, operators like CrossCountry and Great Western Railway provide onboard catering services. CrossCountry offers a selection of snacks and beverages for purchase, while Great Western Railway typically features a full-service café offering a range of hot and cold food options, as well as drinks. Make sure to check the operator's website for the latest menu and available services.

• For seating options, Great Western Railway offers First Class and Standard Class seating on its trains, with First Class providing more spacious seating and complimentary refreshments. CrossCountry generally has Standard Class and First Class coaches, with flexible seating arrangements available. If comfort and quieter surroundings matter, consider booking First Class in advance for a more pleasant journey.

• When arriving at Reading station, be sure to check out the luggage storage facilities located just inside the station. You can securely store your luggage if you want to explore the city before heading to your destination. Reading station is also equipped with clean restroom facilities, including showers for passengers who may wish to freshen up. Keep in mind that there are food options nearby as well.

🚌 The bus journey from Birmingham to Reading takes approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes. Megabus UK operates five services a day, providing a convenient transport option for travelers. 🚌 Travelers can enjoy a comfortable and affordable trip between Birmingham and Reading, with bus ticket prices ranging from £11 to £16.

Departure Point

Navigation Street station

Arrival Point

Station North Interchange

Useful tips for bus travellers

• Make sure to book your tickets in advance with Megabus UK or National Express as prices can fluctuate; tickets on Megabus typically range from £11 to £15, which can be booked online at Megabus or National Express.

• Arrive at Navigation Street bus station at least 15 minutes before departure to account for boarding and to ensure you find your correct bus; check the departure boards for any updates as the service might be subject to changes.

• Upon arriving at Station North Interchange in Reading, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the information displays; the station has easy links to local buses and trains, which can be checked via Reading Buses and National Rail for onward travel plans.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Birmingham to Reading.

Or choose the category:

The distance between Birmingham and Reading is 132.0 km by air, and 154.7 km by road. Traveling by train, it takes approximately 1 hour and 38 minutes to reach Reading from Birmingham. If you prefer to drive, the journey takes around 1 hour and 53 minutes. Alternatively, a bus journey between the two cities typically takes around 2 hours.

The most cost-effective way to travel from Birmingham to Reading is by bus, with prices ranging from £13-£18. However, this option takes approximately 2 hours. For a quicker journey, the train is the most time-efficient option, taking only 1 hour and 38 minutes. However, train tickets can range from £47-£125.

The prices for train travel between Birmingham and Reading range from £47 to £125. On the other hand, bus tickets for the journey from Reading to Birmingham typically cost between £13 and £18.

To get from Birmingham to Reading without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 154.5 km and it takes around 1 hour and 53 minutes to drive. The prices for renting a car and driving from Birmingham to Reading can vary between £23 - £39, depending on factors such as the type of car and rental duration.

The best way to travel from Birmingham to Reading without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 38 minutes and ticket prices range from £47 to £125.

Yes, there is a direct link between Birmingham and Reading. There are hourly train services operated by CrossCountry, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 38 minutes. There are also bus services operated by Megabus UK, with a journey time of around 2 hours.

There are numerous accommodation options available near Reading. With over 982 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices for these hotels start at £38 per night, offering affordable options for those looking for budget-friendly accommodations.