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

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

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$14 by busBest price

132.6 kmDistance

1h 36m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

The journey from Reading to Birmingham offers a fascinating contrast between Reading's picturesque charm and Birmingham's vibrant urban culture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Birmingham

Birmingham boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.

Jewellery Quarter

• Home to over 100 shops selling jewelry.

• Rich history dating back to the 18th century.

Digbeth

• Known for its street art and creative vibe.

• Up-and-coming area with trendy cafes and venues.

Selly Oak

• Close to the University of Birmingham.

• Features a lively atmosphere with diverse eateries.

Best Times To Visit Birmingham's Attractions

Timing your visits to Birmingham's attractions can elevate your experience significantly.

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter, more relaxed exploration.

Cadbury World

Arrive early in the day to enjoy shorter lines and cooler temperatures.

Bullring Shopping Centre

Late afternoon during the week offers fewer crowds and a more casual vibe.

Birmingham Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Birmingham experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters, making it a welcoming destination year-round. Spring and early autumn often provide the best weather for outdoor activities, while understanding the possible rain throughout the year can help you plan your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Birmingham

When in Birmingham, don't miss trying a traditional Balti curry, a flavorful dish hailing from the city's rich Bangladeshi community, which contrasts sharply with the more subdued culinary scene in Reading. The lively atmosphere of the city's curry houses, often bustling with locals, adds to the unique experience, allowing you to savor the vibrant spices and diverse flavors that define Birmingham's gastronomy.

Reading - Birmingham operators

Explore transport companies operating between Reading and Birmingham, 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 Reading to Birmingham New Street

Average Duration

1h 36m

Estimated price

$60-160

Bus

Website

https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Reading North Interchange to Birmingham Brunel Street

Average Duration

2h 25m

Estimated price

$14-20

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

Traveling between Reading and Birmingham 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 Reading to Birmingham by car, covering a driving distance of 154.5 km in just under 2 hours. 💷 Explore flexible pricing options ranging from £24 to £39 for a trip from Reading to Birmingham by car, making it a budget-friendly and convenient travel choice.

Average price

£23 - £39

🚆 Hop aboard the direct train from Reading to Birmingham New Street! Operating hourly and every day, this journey with CrossCountry takes around 1 hour and 36 minutes. 🎟️ Ticket prices for the Reading to Birmingham train range from £47 to £126.

Departure Point

Reading station

Arrival Point

Birmingham New Street station

Useful tips for train travellers

• Onboard services on the direct train operated by Avanti West Coast include a café bar offering a variety of hot and cold snacks, beverages, and light meals. If you're traveling First Class, complimentary refreshments are provided at your seat, so consider upgrading for a more comfortable experience.

• The train from Reading to Birmingham typically offers two standard seating options: Standard Class (Economy) and First Class. In Standard Class, you'll find standard seating with table options and power outlets. First Class provides more spacious seating, additional legroom, and quieter environments, making it ideal for business travelers. Check Avanti West Coast's website for the latest seating arrangements and options: Avanti West Coast.

• The main operators on the Reading to Birmingham route are Avanti West Coast and Great Western Railway. For more information and to book tickets, visit their websites: Avanti West Coast and Great Western Railway. Remember to check for the latest service updates closer to your travel date.

🚌 The journey from Reading to Birmingham by bus takes approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes with services departing every four hours and operating daily. 🚌 Travelers can expect bus ticket prices between £11 to £16 for the trip from Reading to Birmingham.

Departure Point

Reading North Interchange station

Arrival Point

Birmingham Brunel Street station

Useful tips for bus travellers

• To ensure a smooth journey, check the Megabus UK schedule in advance at Megabus UK, as services operate every four hours and you’ll want to secure your preferred departure time.

• Arriving at Birmingham Brunel Street station, take advantage of the nearby Grand Central shopping and dining options; it's just a short walk away and provides a great opportunity to grab a meal or do some shopping after your trip.

• If you're looking for alternative bus operators for your route, consider checking out National Express at National Express, as they may have different schedules that could suit your travel plans.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Reading to Birmingham.

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The distance between Reading and Birmingham is 132.0 km by air or 155.1 km by road. By train, it typically takes 1 hour and 36 minutes to travel from Reading to Birmingham. If driving, the journey takes about 1 hour and 53 minutes. Alternatively, taking a bus would take approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes to reach Birmingham from Reading.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Reading to Birmingham is by bus, which takes 2 hours and 5 minutes and costs between £13 and £18. However, if time efficiency is important, the quickest way to reach Birmingham is by train, which takes 1 hour and 36 minutes, but can cost between £47 and £125.

The prices for a train journey from Reading to Birmingham range from £47 to £125, depending on factors such as ticket type and availability. On the other hand, the prices for a bus journey from Birmingham to Reading generally range from £13 to £18.

To travel from Reading to Birmingham without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 154.5 km in approximately 1 hour and 53 minutes. The cost of driving from Reading to Birmingham by car is usually between £23 and £39, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.

The most convenient way to travel from Reading to Birmingham without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 36 minutes and tickets can range from £47 to £125.

Yes, there is a direct link between Reading and Birmingham. One can take a train from Reading to Birmingham New Street, with services operating hourly and taking approximately 1 hour and 36 minutes. Alternatively, there is also a bus service available, departing twice daily and taking around 2 hours and 5 minutes to reach Birmingham Brunel Street from Reading Bagnall Way/Station Rd. Both options provide convenient transportation between the two cities.

There is a wide range of accommodation options available near Birmingham. With over 1554 hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices for hotels start at £31 per night, allowing for affordable options for travelers.