- Must visit
Valentines Mansion
Elegant historic house with period rooms and exhibitions, offering a clear introduction to Redbridge history and domestic life.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Reading to Ilford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Take a bus from Reading to Ilford and enjoy the approximately 73 km long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest coach runs at 03:45, the last at 20:50.
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
Train from £36
Distance 73 km |
First bus 3:45 |
Last bus 20:50 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Train from £36
Frequently asked questions about your Reading to Ilford trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Reading to Ilford.
The earliest coach from Reading to Ilford leaves at 3:45. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Reading to Ilford leaves at 20:50.
Complete guide to Ilford
Things to do in Ilford
Discover the best of Ilford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ilford trip today.
- Recommended
Redbridge Museum
Local museum and gallery with changing displays on Redbridge people, places and culture, set within the Central Library complex.
SPACE Ilford
Community gallery space presenting contemporary exhibitions and creative projects, useful for a quick look at local artistic activity.
- Must visit
Valentines Park
Formal gardens, lakes and open lawns around a historic mansion, ideal for strolling, seasonal colour and a relaxed break in Ilford.
- Recommended
High Road
Busy central shopping street and civic area that captures everyday Ilford, with markets, transport links and varied local businesses.
- Recommended
Hainault Forest Country Park
Woodland and open parkland on Ilford's northern edge, popular for longer walks, wildlife and a quieter side of the borough.
Pie and Mash
A classic East End pie filled with minced beef, often served with mash and parsley liquor. A long-standing London comfort food popular across east London.
- Gluten-free
Jellied Eels
Jellied eel pieces set in a savoury stock. It is one of London’s most traditional working-class dishes, closely tied to the historic East End.
- Gluten-free
Smoked Kippered Haddock
A smoked white fish fillet, usually haddock, dyed golden and eaten hot or cold. It has long been a staple breakfast and supper dish in London.
Mardin Restaurant
Long-established Turkish ocakbasi known for grilled meats, fresh breads and lively casual dining on Ilford Lane.
Punjab Restaurant
Smart Indian restaurant focused on Punjabi and north Indian dishes, with a polished dining room suited to groups and dinners.
Saravanaa Bhavan
Busy South Indian vegetarian restaurant serving dosas, idli and thali in a simple, family-friendly setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for Greater London. Dining and hotels cost more than many UK towns, but Ilford is often cheaper than central London, with good-value transport and casual food options.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants may add a service charge; if not, 10-12.5% is common for good service. Taxi fares can be rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional, usually just small change.
FAQs: Reading to Ilford coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Ilford 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 Ilford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take a train between Reading and Ilford.
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.
More options for your journey from Reading to Ilford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Ilford and Reading
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
