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Reading, Berkshire to Southampton, Hampshire from $16: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Reading, United Kingdom
to
Southampton, United Kingdom

How to Get from Reading to Southampton: 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.

$16 by carBest price
78.6 kmDistance
53m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Reading to Southampton 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
CrossCountry
Train
Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$35-80
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$16-24
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 78.6 km
Duration: 53m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$160-200

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $32 $53 $33 $24 $42 $24 $8
Train $18 $19 $23 $18 $15 $22 $9
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Traveling From Reading to Southampton

The journey from Reading to Southampton offers a shift from the vibrant urban energy of Reading to the coastal charm of Southampton, where maritime heritage meets modern attractions.

Best Neighbourhoods in Southampton

Southampton boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Ocean Village
• Scenic marina views and waterfront dining options.
• Great for leisurely strolls along the promenade.
City Centre
• Home to vibrant shopping and entertainment venues.
• Cultural attractions like museums and art galleries nearby.
Swaythling
• Charming parks and green spaces for relaxation.
• Offers a taste of local residential life.

Best Times To Visit Southampton's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience in Southampton.

SeaCity Museum
Weekdays in the afternoon generally see fewer visitors, making exploration enjoyable.
Titanic Walk
Early morning walks offer peaceful views before the crowds arrive.
WestQuay Shopping Centre
Late afternoon on weekdays helps avoid weekend shopping rushes.

Southampton Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Southampton enjoys a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers, making it suitable for year-round visits. The best times to explore are spring and early fall when temperatures are pleasant and rain is less frequent, allowing you to fully enjoy outdoor attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Southampton

Try the fresh seafood at The Jetty, where you can savor local catches like grilled fish and seafood platters that showcase the bounty of the nearby coast. Unlike the more traditional offerings in Reading, the vibrant waterfront atmosphere and emphasis on fresh, local ingredients make for a truly memorable dining experience.

Reading - Southampton operators

Explore transport companies operating between Reading and Southampton, 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 Southampton Central

Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$35-80
Taxi
Contact phone
+44 7475661060
Website
https://stationtaxi.square.site

Taxi from Reading to Southampton

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$160-200
Contact phone
+44 1189 509 509
Website
https://capitalcarsreading.co.uk

Taxi from Reading to Southampton

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$160-200
Contact phone
+44 118 910 10 10
Website
https://atlanticcars.co.uk

Taxi from Reading to Southampton

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$160-200

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

Traveling between Reading and Southampton 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 Reading to Southampton, covering a driving distance of 78.9 km in just under an hour. 💷 Experience the flexibility of varying prices, ranging from £13 to £19, as you make your way from Reading to the vibrant city of Southampton by car. 🌊 Discover the coastal charm and maritime heritage of Southampton, making your road trip not just a transfer, but a delightful exploration of southern England.
Average price
£12 - £19
🛤️ The journey takes approximately 53 minutes, covering a distance of about 76.8 km. 💷 Ticket prices for this route vary from £28 to £63, making it an affordable and efficient way to reach Southampton from Reading.
Departure Point
Reading station
Arrival Point
Southampton Central station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train journey from Reading to Southampton, you will primarily be travelling with South Western Railway. They offer a catering service that includes a selection of snacks and drinks available for purchase on board. However, it's advisable to check their website for the latest menu offerings and stock availability on the day of your travel: South Western Railway Catering Service.
• The train service from Reading to Southampton generally provides two seating options: Standard Class and First Class. Standard Class seats are comfortable and typically include power sockets and free Wi-Fi, making them suitable for most travelers. First Class offers additional perks like larger seats, more legroom, complimentary refreshments, and quieter carriages, making it a great option for those who prefer a more relaxed journey. Ensure to book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred seating.
• Upon arriving at Southampton Central, be sure to take advantage of the luggage storage facilities available at the station. This allows you to explore the city hassle-free. Southampton Central also has clean restroom facilities, but note that shower services may not be available. For quick access to the city center, you can hop on the Unilink U1A bus route, which takes approximately 20 minutes to reach the heart of Southampton. More details on the bus routes can be found here: Unilink Bus Services.
🚌 Route 1: Travel from Reading to Southampton by bus with a convenient transfer at Bournemouth. Enjoy a comfortable journey with CrossCountry trains, reaching your destination in approximately 1 hour and 3 minutes over a distance of 76.8 km. 🚌 Route 2: Another option to get from Reading to Southampton is by taking a train towards Bournemouth and then connecting to Nottingham. This route, also serviced by CrossCountry, covers the same distance in about an hour and 3 minutes, providing a reliable transportation choice. 🚌 Route 3: For a longer but scenic journey, consider taking a bus from Reading to Southampton via Oxford and Portsmouth. This route involves two steps, with Thames Travel and megabus, taking around 4 hours in total to cover 161 km with a transfer included for a unique travel experience.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider booking your train in advance through CrossCountry to lower your fare, especially if traveling during peak hours; visit CrossCountry Trains for schedules and booking.
• Upon arrival at Southampton Central, familiarize yourself with the station layout using the interactive map found here to easily locate exits and connecting transport.
• If you have time before or after your journey, check out the nearby Westquay Shopping Centre for dining options; it’s about a 10-minute walk from Southampton Central, and you can find more info on shops and eateries here.

Trips to Southampton