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

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

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$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.

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Type	Mo 03/02	Tu 04/02	We 05/02	Th 06/02	Fr 07/02	Sa 08/02	Su 09/02
Bus	$25	$25	$39	$16	$25	$21	$20
Train	$63	$42	$29	$33	$31	$44	$61

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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

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

Website

https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Shudehill Interchange to Station North Interchange

Average Duration

4h 40m

Estimated price

$19-28

Plane

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: When traveling from Manchester to Reading, trains operated by Avanti West Coast and CrossCountry offer a range of catering services. Avanti provides a trolley service featuring snacks, drinks, and light meals, while CrossCountry has a cafe bar available for purchasing refreshments. Be sure to check the specific train you book, as service levels may differ.

Seating Options: The route is served by both Avanti West Coast and CrossCountry, offering different seating classes. Avanti trains feature First Class and Standard Class, providing spacious seating with power outlets and complimentary refreshments in First Class. CrossCountry offers Standard Class and First Class sections as well but with slightly less luxurious amenities than Avanti's First Class. Consider booking First Class for more comfort, especially on longer journeys.

Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at Reading Station, expect a well-signposted exit to the city center. There are facilities available to leave luggage at the station, making it convenient for exploring before onward travel. Additionally, restrooms are available, but showers are not. For a quick transition into the city, head to the station's main exit.

🛫 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