London, Greater London to Reading, Berkshire from $7: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from London to Reading: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$7 RideshareBest price
37 milesDistance
36m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from London 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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| Type | Mo 20/01 | Tu 21/01 | We 22/01 | Th 23/01 | Fr 24/01 | Sa 25/01 | Su 26/01 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | $19 | $19 | $20 | $12 | $17 | $14 | $15 |
| Train | $30 | $29 | $29 | $29 | $30 | $24 | $22 |
Traveling From London to Reading
The journey from London to Reading offers a fascinating contrast, with the bustling urban energy of the capital giving way to the charming, relaxed vibe of this historic market town.
Best Neighbourhoods in Reading
Reading boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own distinct character.
Caversham
• Scenic riverside walks for leisurely strolls.
• Vibrant café scene with local favorites.
Reading Town Centre
• Bustling shopping area with popular retailers.
• Rich history showcased in beautiful architecture.
Tilehurst
• Family-friendly parks perfect for outdoor activities.
• Strong sense of community with local events.
Best Times To Visit Reading's Attractions
Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Reading.
Reading Abbey
Weekdays, especially early mornings, allow for quieter exploration of this historic site.
Forbury Gardens
Visit during mid-afternoon for a serene escape and fewer crowds.
The Oracle Shopping Centre
Early weekdays are ideal for shopping, avoiding weekend rushes and busy crowds.
Reading Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Reading experiences a temperate maritime climate, meaning mild winters and warm summers, with rain spread fairly evenly throughout the year. Spring and early autumn are often the best times to visit for pleasant weather, while packing an umbrella can make your travel experience more enjoyable.
Dining Recommendation in Reading
For a taste of local flavor, try the Berkshire venison at The Ox Row Inn, where the cozy, rustic atmosphere contrasts with London’s fast-paced dining scene. This dish showcases the region's fresh, locally sourced ingredients, delivering a unique culinary experience you won't find in the capital.
London - Reading operators
Explore transport companies operating between London and Reading, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+44 3457 000 125Website
https://www.gwr.com/
Train from London Paddington to Reading
Average Duration
36mEstimated price
21-55Contact phone
0345 6000 650Website
https://www.southwesternrailway.com/
Train from London Waterloo to Reading
Average Duration
1h 22mEstimated price
20-50Contact phone
0343 222 1234Website
https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/elizabeth-line/
Train from London Paddington to Reading
Average Duration
53mEstimated price
11-28Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228Website
http://blablacar.com
Other from London to Reading
Average Duration
1h 10mEstimated price
7-7Other from London to Reading
Average Duration
52mEstimated price
650-800London to Reading: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between London 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 London to Reading, covering a distance of 42 miles in just around 52 minutes by car.
💰 Prices for the trip range from £10 to £16, offering an affordable and convenient way to travel between these two vibrant cities.
Average price
£10 - £16
🚄 The train journey from London to Reading is convenient and efficient, with direct services departing every 10 minutes from Paddington station.
🎫 The First Great Western Service operates this route, ensuring a reliable and comfortable travel experience. The journey typically takes around 36 minutes to reach Reading station.
💷 Ticket prices for the London to Reading train vary between £9 to £43, offering passengers flexibility in choosing the fare that best suits their budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Paddington station
Arrival Point
Reading station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the train journeys from London to Reading typically include catering from vendors such as 'GWR' (Great Western Railway), which offers refreshments like light snacks, hot and cold drinks, and sometimes a selection of sandwiches. You can also find vending machines on board, providing a quick and easy option for snacks and beverages.
• The main operator for trains on this route is Great Western Railway (GWR). They offer various seating options, including First Class and Standard Class (Economy). First Class seats provide more space and comfort, along with complimentary refreshments, while Economy seats are perfectly adequate for a quick trip. You can book your tickets and learn more about seating options on their website: GWR. Another operator may include South Western Railway, found at South Western Railway.
• Upon arrival at Reading station, you'll find that it is well equipped with amenities. The station has luggage storage services where you can leave your bags for a few hours. There are also public restrooms and accessible facilities available. Familiarize yourself with the station map upon arrival to find exits and amenities easily.
• To reach Reading city center quickly from the station, the fastest option is to take Bus 5, which runs frequently to the main shopping areas and attractions. Alternatively, Taxi services are readily available just outside the station if you prefer a more direct route. The journey by bus takes around 10 minutes.
The route covers a distance of 74.2 km and takes approximately 1 hour and 53 minutes to reach your destination.
🚌 Begin your trip by boarding a bus towards Liverpool, which is the first step of this scenic adventure. The duration of this leg of the journey is about 1 hour and 35 minutes, offering you a comfortable ride through picturesque landscapes.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from London to Reading.
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The cheapest way to travel from London to Reading is by ridesharing. It costs £6 and takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. Ridesharing is a cost-effective option for budget-conscious travelers, allowing them to share the cost of the journey with fellow passengers.
The fastest way to travel from London to Reading is by train. The journey takes approximately 23 minutes. Ticket prices for the train range from £9 to £40, depending on the time of travel and class of ticket. It is recommended to check the train schedules and book tickets in advance to ensure a smooth and efficient journey.
The distance between London and Reading is approximately 37 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 40.6 miles. The journey by car typically takes around 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. Public transportation options, such as trains or buses, can also be used to travel between the two cities.
The best way to travel from London to Reading without a car is by train. The train journey takes approximately 23 minutes and ticket prices range from £9 to £40, depending on the time and type of ticket you choose. Trains are frequent and provide a convenient and comfortable option for traveling between the two cities.
The journey from London to Reading takes approximately 23 minutes by train. Trains depart from London Paddington every 10 minutes, providing frequent and convenient transportation. It is important to note that this travel time is subject to change based on factors such as train schedules and any potential delays.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Reading. With a wide range of 982+ hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices start at £38 per night, offering affordable options for travelers. It is recommended to check online booking platforms or consult with a travel agent to find the most suitable accommodation option for your stay in Reading.
Yes, you can share a ride from London to Reading using Blablacar's carpooling service. It is a convenient option if you do not have a driver's license or prefer to avoid public transport. This service allows you to find other people traveling the same route and split the cost of the journey, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly option. Simply search for available rides on the Blablacar platform and book your seat in a shared car.
Yes, you can drive from London to Reading. The driving distance is approximately 41 miles and it takes about 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. There are multiple routes you can take, but the most direct route is usually via the M4 motorway. It's recommended to check for any road closures or traffic updates before starting your journey.
Trains from London to Reading arrive at Reading station. This is the main train station in Reading and is well-connected to other parts of the city. The station is located in the center of Reading, making it convenient for travelers to access local amenities and attractions. Passengers can easily transfer to buses or taxis from the station to reach their final destination in Reading.
Yes, there is a direct train between London and Reading. The train departs from London Paddington and arrives at Reading. The train services operate every day and depart every 10 minutes. The journey usually takes approximately 23 minutes.
To catch the train from London to Reading you will need to go to London Paddington station. First Great Western Service operates this train route. From London Paddington station, trains depart regularly for Reading. Make sure to check the train schedule and platform information before boarding the train.
The cost of a train ticket from London to Reading can range from £9 to £40, depending on factors such as the type of ticket, time of travel, and class of service. It is advisable to book your train ticket in advance to secure the best fares. Additionally, some train companies offer discounted prices for off-peak travel or if you choose a specific train time.
The cost of driving from London to Reading can vary between £10 and £16 depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls. However, it's worth noting that this estimate does not include other potential expenses such as parking fees. Additionally, travel time by car is typically around 1 hour, but this can vary depending on traffic conditions.
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