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Reading, Berkshire to London, Greater London from $3: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Reading, United Kingdom
to
London, United Kingdom

How to Get from Reading to London: 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.

$3 RideshareBest price
59.55 kmDistance
41m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Reading to London 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
First Great Western Service
Train
Average Duration
41m
Estimated price
$11-55
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
1h  12m
Estimated price
$3-12
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 59.55 km
Duration: 41m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$13-20
Company
Various
Taxi
Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$650-800

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $15 $21 $24 $14 $17 $12 $10
Train $30 $30 $29 $29 $30 $30 $26
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Reading to London

The journey from Reading to London offers a striking contrast between the quiet charm of a historic market town and the vibrant energy of a bustling metropolis.

Best Neighbourhoods in London

London's neighborhoods offer distinct experiences, each with its own character.

Covent Garden
• Known for its lively street performances.
• Home to unique boutiques and global dining.
Shoreditch
• Famous for its vibrant street art scene.
• Bustling nightlife with trendy bars and clubs.
Notting Hill
• Renowned for its colorful houses and Portobello Market.
• Offers a charming, bohemian atmosphere.

Best Times To Visit London's Attractions

Timing your visits to London's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

The British Museum
Visit during weekday mornings for fewer crowds and intimate exploration.
The Tower of London
Go early in the day or late in the afternoon to enjoy a quieter visit.
The London Eye
Try visiting on weekday evenings for stunning views and shorter lines.

London Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

London experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild temperatures and a fair amount of rain throughout the year. Late spring and early fall often present the best conditions for visitors, as pleasant weather enhances your ability to explore the city’s many attractions.

Dining Recommendation

For an unforgettable culinary experience in London, try the crispy duck pancakes at Huxleys, where vibrant Asian flavors blend seamlessly with high-quality ingredients. This lively restaurant atmosphere sets a striking contrast to the more traditional fare in Reading, showcasing London's diverse dining scene.

Reading - London operators

Explore transport companies operating between Reading and London, 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 Reading to London Paddington

Average Duration
41m
Estimated price
$21-55
Contact phone
0343 222 1234
Website
https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/elizabeth-line/

Train from Reading to London Paddington

Average Duration
57m
Estimated price
$11-28
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.com/

Other from Reading to London

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$3-12
Contact phone
+44 7475661060
Website
https://stationtaxi.square.site

Other from Reading to London

Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$650-800
Contact phone
+44 1189 509 509
Website
https://capitalcarsreading.co.uk

Other from Reading to London

Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$650-800
Contact phone
+44 118 910 10 10
Website
https://atlanticcars.co.uk

Other from Reading to London

Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$650-800

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

Traveling between Reading and London 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.

🚗 Driving from Reading to London is a smooth journey covering a distance of 41 miles, typically taking around 53 minutes by car. 💸 The cost of driving to London from Reading ranges from £10 to £16, offering an affordable transportation option for budget-conscious travelers.
Average price
£10 - £16
🚆 The train journey from Reading to London is a convenient and efficient way to travel between the two cities. With direct services departing from Reading station and arriving at Paddington station, travelers can reach their destination in approximately 41 minutes. 🎟️ Train services between Reading and London are operated by First Great Western Service, offering frequent departures every 10 minutes, ensuring flexibility for passengers. The prices for a ticket on this route can range from £9 to £43, allowing for budget-friendly options for travelers.
Departure Point
Reading station
Arrival Point
Paddington station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your train journey from Reading to London can vary by operator. If you choose Great Western Railway, they offer a catering service that includes a range of refreshments such as hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, and snacks, available at your seat in First Class. Remember, not all services may be available on all trains, so it’s good to check the specific train you’re taking on their website: Great Western Railway.
• When selecting seating options, Great Western Railway provides three main classes: Standard Class, which is comfortable but economical; First Class, which offers wider seats, complimentary refreshments, and a quieter environment; and Business Class, ideal for those who need to work en route. If you're looking for a more luxurious experience, First Class is a great option, especially for a short trip.
• Multiple operators run trains from Reading to London, including Great Western Railway (">">(gwr.com), South Western Railway (">">(southwesternrailway.com), and occasionally, Thameslink (">">(thameslinkrailway.com). Make sure to check the respective websites for any service changes or specific train schedules before your journey.
• Upon arriving at London Paddington Station, you can use the left luggage service available for a fee; this allows you to explore London without your bags. The station also has clean restrooms. Be sure to follow the signage for the left luggage service. Additionally, Paddington provides easy access to various transport links.
• The fastest way to reach the city center from London Paddington is to take the Heathrow Express train to Paddington, which offers a quick transfer to the Bakerloo Line. You can also take the London Underground’s Bakerloo Line towards Elephant & Castle, which is direct and takes just about 15 minutes to reach central locations. Alternatively, buses stop at Paddington, but given the traffic, the Underground is typically faster.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Reading to London.

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The distance between Reading and London is approximately 37 miles, with a road distance of 40.4 miles. By train, it typically takes around 30-40 minutes to travel from Reading to London. On the other hand, by car, the journey from London to Reading usually takes around 1 hour.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Reading to London is to rideshare, with prices ranging from £2-£9. This option takes approximately 1 hour and 12 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to take the train, which takes 38 minutes but costs between £9-£39. Choosing between ridesharing and taking the train will depend on personal preferences and budget constraints.
The prices for traveling by train from Reading to London range from £9 to £39. The cost can vary depending on factors such as peak travel times, ticket class, and advance booking. It is advisable to check the train operator's website or use a fare comparison tool to get the most accurate and up-to-date prices for your specific travel dates and preferences.
To get from Reading to London without using public transportation, you can consider using BlaBlaCar's carpooling service for rideshare options. This is a great alternative if you don't have a driver's license or want to avoid public transport. The driving distance between Reading and London is approximately 40 miles and it takes around 51 minutes to drive between the two cities. The prices for carpooling rides from Reading to London range from £10 to £16.
The most convenient way to travel from Reading to London without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 38 minutes and ticket prices range from £9 to £39. Trains are frequent and offer a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation between the two cities. Other options such as buses and taxis are also available, but the train is usually the fastest and most reliable choice.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Reading and London. Trains depart from Reading station and arrive at London Paddington station. The journey takes approximately 38 minutes. These train services operate every day and depart approximately every 10 minutes.
There are numerous options for accommodations near London. With over 3674 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a place to stay that suits their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in the area start at £67 per night, providing a range of options for different types of travelers. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or something in between, there are plenty of choices available near London.