Edinburgh to Reading bus with National Express

Thu 08 Oct
+ Add return
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Avanza
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Edinburgh to Reading

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 08 Oct

Cheapest price on 08 Oct

£70

Average ticket price on 08 Oct

£75

Fastest journey on 08 Oct

13 h 20 m

Average journey duration on 08 Oct

13 h 32 m

Buses on 08 Oct

6

Distance

521 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Edinburgh to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Edinburgh to Reading will cost around £75 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £70.

Fast coaches

To travel from Edinburgh to Reading you need to make at least 2 changes.

  • National ExpressNX591 · NX030 · RRRA1
    10:3513h40
    Edinburgh, Bus Station
    0:15Reading, Blagrave Street
    £701One-way
    2 changes
  • National ExpressNX594 · NX030 · RRRA1
    21:2513h20
    Edinburgh, Bus Station
    10:45Reading, Blagrave Street
    £731One-way
    2 changes
  • National ExpressNX591 · NX025 · RRRA1
    10:3513h40
    Edinburgh, Bus Station
    0:15Reading, Blagrave Street
    £741One-way
    2 changes
  • National ExpressNX594 · NX025 · RRRA1
    21:2513h20
    Edinburgh, Bus Station
    10:45Reading, Blagrave Street
    £771One-way
    2 changes
  • National ExpressNX598 · NX025 · RRRA1
    21:4513h40
    Edinburgh, Bus Station
    11:25Reading, Blagrave Street
    £781One-way
    2 changes

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Edinburgh to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Edinburgh to Reading run on average 5 times per day, taking around 11h 53m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £64 but you can travel from only £22 by flight.

The earliest coach runs at 02:24, the last at 23:40. The fastest coach covers the 521 km distance in 10h 46m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from £22
Distance
521 km
Average bus duration
11h 53m
Cheapest ticket price
£64
Buses per day
5
Fastest bus
10h 46m
First bus
2:24
Last bus
23:40
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
21 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from £22

Live departures

Edinburgh to Reading bus times

The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Reading coaches for today, Wednesday 7 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
National Express21:05 Edinburgh
13h20
10:25 Reading0 changesdirect
National Express22:05 Edinburgh
13h20
11:25 Reading0 changesdirect
Thursday 8 October
National ExpressNX591 · NX030 · RRRA110:35 Edinburgh, Bus Station
13h40
0:15 Reading, Blagrave Street2 changes
National ExpressNX591 · NX025 · RRRA110:35 Edinburgh, Bus Station
13h40
0:15 Reading, Blagrave Street2 changes

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Edinburgh to Reading coaches with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus offer coaches services from Edinburgh to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh to Reading.

Why book with Omio vs National Express?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Reading.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare National Express with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Reading.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Reading.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Reading.

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Edinburgh to ReadingYou can travel by bus between Edinburgh to Reading with National Express, FlixBus for as low as £22. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
10h 46m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£89
FlixBus frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.

National Express

About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average National Express Duration
11h 2m
Cheapest National Express Price
£64
National Express frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.

Complete guide to Reading

Things to do in Reading

Discover the best of Reading — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Reading trip today.

  • Must visit

Reading Museum

Reading’s main museum explores local history, archaeology, and art. Best known for the Victorian copy of the Bayeux Tapestry.

  • Must visit

The Museum of English Rural Life

Small museum beside the abbey ruins with exhibits on Reading’s medieval abbey. Good for context before walking the historic quarter.

  • Recommended

Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology

University museum covering farming, countryside life, and design. Engaging displays make it a distinctive and family-friendly visit.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for England: hotels are often cheaper than London, but dining, drinks and rail fares still add up for visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is sometimes included. If not, tip about 10% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional.

Best day trips from Reading by bus

The most popular day trips by bus from Reading are London, Oxford, Bath, Bristol and Windsor. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Reading on Omio.

A view of London

Day trip from Reading to London by bus

Why visit London for the day?

London blends royal history with modern city life, known for its museums, theatre and global food scene. Along the Thames, grand landmarks sit beside diverse neighbourhoods shaped by finance, fashion and contemporary culture.

How to get from Reading to London by bus?

The earliest coach runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest coach covers the 59 km distance in 1h 0m.

A view of Oxford

Day trip from Reading to Oxford by bus

Why visit Oxford for the day?

Oxford is known for its historic university, elegant colleges and long academic tradition. Its medieval streets, museums and riverside setting give the city a thoughtful but lively character.

How to get from Reading to Oxford by bus?

The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:37. The fastest coach covers the 38 km distance in 1h 37m.

A view of Bath

Day trip from Reading to Bath by bus

Why visit Bath for the day?

Bath is known for its Roman Baths, graceful Georgian architecture and links to Jane Austen. Its compact centre feels elegant yet lively, with historic streets, independent shops and a long-standing spa culture.

How to get from Reading to Bath by bus?

The earliest coach runs at 00:04, the last at 22:55. The fastest coach covers the 97 km distance in 2h 55m.

A view of Bristol

Day trip from Reading to Bristol by bus

Why visit Bristol for the day?

Bristol is known for its maritime past, inventive culture and distinctive street art. Around the harbourside and Clifton, historic landmarks and a strong independent scene give the city an energetic but relaxed feel.

How to get from Reading to Bristol by bus?

The earliest coach runs at 00:55, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 113 km distance in 1h 35m.

A view of Windsor

Day trip from Reading to Windsor by bus

Why visit Windsor for the day?

Windsor is a historic Thames-side town known for Windsor Castle and its strong royal identity. Its compact centre, riverside setting and nearby parkland give it a refined but approachable character.

How to get from Reading to Windsor by bus?

The earliest coach runs at 00:11, the last at 22:45. The fastest coach covers the 26 km distance in 1h 18m.

FAQs: Edinburgh to Reading coach

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Reading by coach. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Reading, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap coach tickets from Edinburgh to Reading can start from as little as £64 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Edinburgh to Reading is £89; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by coach from Edinburgh to Reading is 10h 46m to travel the 521 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest coach from Edinburgh to Reading leaves at 2:24. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Edinburgh to Reading leaves at 23:40.
There are 5 coaches a day from Edinburgh to Reading which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Edinburgh to Reading, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Reading. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Edinburgh and Reading and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
When departing from Edinburgh , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Edinburgh, Bus Station, Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HH), Edinburgh, Drum Brae South . When arriving in Reading , you can end your route in coach stations like Reading, Blagrave Street, Three Mile Cross, Mereoak Lane - Park & Ride.Passengers board the coach most frequently from Edinburgh, Bus Station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Reading, Blagrave Street, located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Reading including taking a coach, train and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Edinburgh to Reading:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Edinburgh to Reading for coach company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Edinburgh to Reading depends on the coach companies:
  • National Express
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
  • FlixBus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company National Express, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Edinburgh to Reading.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Edinburgh to Reading:
  • National Express
    • Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
  • FlixBus
    • One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Edinburgh to Reading:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Edinburgh to Reading. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Edinburgh to Reading with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Edinburgh to Reading with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Edinburgh to Reading with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.

popular bus stations

Important Stations and Airports in Edinburgh and Reading

Most Edinburgh to Reading buses use the Edinburgh, Bus Station to Reading, Blagrave Street station pair. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Reading bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Edinburgh
Arrival bus stations in Reading

Which Edinburgh station do buses to Reading leave from?

Buses from Edinburgh to Reading leave from Edinburgh, Bus Station. The station is from Edinburgh city centre at Elder Street, Edinburgh EH1 3DX, United Kingdom.
Edinburgh, Bus StationElder Street, Edinburgh EH1 3DX, United KingdomWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Edinburgh, Bus Station from Edinburgh city centre

Bus10, 11 · 2m · £2 · every ~30 min
Uk090 · 5m · £0.89 · every ~32 min
TramEdinburgh York Place - Edinburgh Airport, T50 · 3m · £4 · every ~38 min

Edinburgh, Bus Station bus station facilities and services

Edinburgh, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Sandwich Shop (in the station).

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Edinburgh, Bus Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.

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