Swansea to Reading from $45: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$45 - DriveBest price

208.8 kmDistance

2h 22m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

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Traveling From Swansea to Reading

The journey from Swansea to Reading offers a striking contrast between the scenic coastal beauty of Wales and the vibrant urban atmosphere of Berkshire.

Best Neighbourhoods in Reading

Reading boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own attractions and charm.

Caversham

• Scenic views along the River Thames

• Vibrant cafes and local shops

Reading Town Centre

• Bustling shopping districts

• Rich cultural experiences and events

Tilehurst

• Family-friendly parks and recreation spots

• Close-knit community atmosphere

Best Times To Visit Reading's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Reading.

Reading Abbey

Visit early in the morning during weekdays for peace and fewer visitors.

Oracle Shopping Centre

Late afternoons on weekdays are quieter, allowing for a more relaxed shopping experience.

Forbury Gardens

Go during weekdays to enjoy the gardens without the weekend crowds.

Reading Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Reading experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters. The best times to visit are late spring and early autumn, when the weather is pleasant, making outdoor activities and sightseeing enjoyable.

Dining Recommendation in Reading

Consider trying the traditional British roast at The Corn Stores, a restaurant that combines modern flair with classic flavors. This dining experience contrasts with Swansea’s emphasis on fresh seafood, showcasing local ingredients in a lively atmosphere that reflects Reading's vibrant culinary scene.

Swansea - Reading operators

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

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+44 3457 000 125

Website

https://www.gwr.com/

Train from Swansea to Reading

Average Duration

2h 22m

Estimated price

$90-200

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

Traveling between Swansea 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 picturesque journey from Swansea to Reading, covering a distance of 238.2 km in just 2 hours and 32 minutes by car. 💷 Prices for the road trip from Swansea to Reading range from £36 to £55, offering budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore the beauty of both cities. 🛣️ Navigate the roads with ease and convenience as you make your way from Swansea to Reading, soaking in the diverse landscapes and charming towns that lie between these two vibrant locations. Create lasting memories on this exciting road trip adventure across England.

Average price

£35 - £54

👜 Enjoy a comfortable journey that takes approximately 2 hours and 22 minutes. 🌆 Arrive at Reading station after a smooth train ride, ready to explore all that this vibrant city has to offer. With ticket prices ranging from £71 to £158, it's an affordable and efficient way to travel between Swansea and Reading.

Departure Point

Swansea station

Arrival Point

Reading station

Useful tips for train travellers

• On your train journey from Swansea to Reading, you'll typically be traveling with Great Western Railway (GWR) or Transport for Wales. GWR offers catering services that include a range of snacks and beverages, as well as a trolley service with hot drinks and light meals on selected services. Make sure to check the availability of these services as they can differ based on the time of day and class of travel.

• The route offers a variety of seating options, primarily Standard Class and First Class with GWR. Standard Class is comfortable and provides a good amount of legroom, while First Class offers more spacious seats, complimentary refreshments, and access to quieter carriages. Transport for Wales also provides standard seating options but check their website for specific class features.

• Upon arriving at Reading station, you can easily navigate your way since it is well signposted and includes helpful staff. There are facilities to leave your luggage at the station, alongside restrooms. However, showers are not available. For the fastest way to the city center, exit the station and catch the number 2 or 10 bus, which frequently heads directly to the city, taking approximately 10-15 minutes.

🚌 Route 1: You can travel from Swansea to Reading in 6 hours 12 mins covering a distance of 358 km with one transfer. The first step is a bus journey towards London Heathrow Airport with National Express 202-HJ. 🌉 Route 2: Another option is a 5 hours 22 mins trip over 333 km with two transfers. Begin with a bus ride to London Victoria using National Express 507-FA, followed by a journey to London Gatwick Airport with National Express 201-HJ. 🏞️ Route 3: For a quicker journey of 4 hours 3 mins and 242 km to Reading, consider a direct bus towards London Victoria with National Express 508-AC.

Useful tips for bus travellers

• Consider using Route 3 on National Express 508-AC for the fastest travel time at 4 hours 3 minutes; plan to catch this bus from Swansea University Bay Campus for a direct connection to Mereoak Park & Ride.

• When arriving at Reading Station, familiarize yourself with the concourse layout through the station map available at readingstation.co.uk to quickly navigate to connecting transport or nearby amenities.

• For your transfer at Heathrow, check real-time departure schedules for RailAir buses heading to Central Reading at railair.com; the buses leave from Stop 9 at Terminal 2 Arrivals, which is conveniently located.