- Must visit
Reading Museum
Reading’s main museum explores local history, archaeology, and art. Best known for the Victorian copy of the Bayeux Tapestry.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basingstoke to Reading
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 30 Aug
Cheapest price on 30 Aug
£9
Average ticket price on 30 Aug
£9
Fastest journey on 30 Aug
16 m
Average journey duration on 30 Aug
47 m
Trains on 30 Aug
3
Distance
23 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basingstoke to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basingstoke to Reading will cost around £9 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £9.
Fast trains
On Sun 30 Aug, we found 3 trains from Basingstoke to Reading, including 3 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 23 km distance in an average of 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 16 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 47 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
13:480h16Basingstoke14:04Reading£91One-way0 changes
8:061h47Basingstoke9:53Reading£91One-way0 changes- 9:490h17Basingstoke10:06Reading£91One-way0 changes
- 13:480h16Basingstoke14:04Reading£91One-way0 changes
- 9:490h17Basingstoke10:06Reading£91One-way0 changes
- 8:061h47Basingstoke9:53Reading£91One-way0 changes
Live departures
Basingstoke to Reading train times
The table below shows live departures for Basingstoke to Reading trains for today, Saturday 29 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C03040 | On time 9:21 Basingstoke station (BSK) | 0h22 | 9:43 Reading West (RDW) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G00859 | On time 9:49 Basingstoke station (BSK) | 0h18 | 10:07 Reading station (RDG) | 0 changesdirect | |
| C03043 | On time 9:53 Basingstoke station (BSK) | 0h22 | 10:15 Reading West (RDW) | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basingstoke to Reading by train
Compare train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sun
30 Aug
30 Aug
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31 Aug
31 Aug
Tue
01 Sept
01 Sept
Wed
02 Sept
02 Sept
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04 Sept
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05 Sept
05 Sept
Why should you book Basingstoke to Reading trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry, South Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more offer trains services from Basingstoke to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Basingstoke to Reading.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, South Western Railway, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Basingstoke 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, South Western Railway, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Basingstoke to Reading.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basingstoke to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Basingstoke to Reading run on average 8 times per day, taking around 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £8 if you book in advance.
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:41. The fastest train covers the 23 km distance in 21m.
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
Distance 23 km |
Average train duration 20m |
Cheapest ticket price £8 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 21m |
First train 0:05 |
Last train 23:41 |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Basingstoke to Reading trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Basingstoke and Reading from £8. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
22m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£9
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
21m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£8
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
South Western Railway
About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average South Western Railway Duration
19m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£16
South Western Railway frequency
9 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
16m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
£26
Cross Country frequency
9 a day
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway (GWR) Duration
25m
Cheapest Great Western Railway (GWR) Price
£19
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
8 a day
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
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.
- Must visit
Forbury Gardens
Large riverside park with formal gardens, open lawns, and abbey remains. Ideal for relaxing walks close to the town centre.
- Recommended
Broad Street
Traffic-free shopping street at the heart of Reading. A practical and lively route linking major shops, historic lanes, and public spaces.
- Recommended
Thames Side Promenade
Riverside walking area along the Thames near Caversham Bridge. Visit for benches, water views, and an easy stroll near the centre.
Berkshire pork sausages
Berkshire pork sausages are a long-standing county staple, prized for well-seasoned local pork and often served with mash in traditional pubs.
- Vegetarian
Spotted dick
Spotted dick is a classic steamed suet pudding with dried fruit, commonly served with custard and strongly associated with traditional English cooking.
- Vegetarian
Summer pudding
Summer pudding is a Berkshire favourite in berry season, made by lining bread with soft fruit and juice for a bright, old-fashioned local dessert.
L'Ortolan
Refined modern British dining in elegant surroundings, known for carefully plated tasting-style dishes and polished service.
The Cunning Man
Traditional pub by the Thames serving British classics, Sunday roasts and local drinks in a relaxed historic setting.
Miller & Carter Oracle
Popular central Reading restaurant specialising in well-cooked steaks, grills and hearty sides in a lively contemporary space.
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.
Reading Buses
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £5.90
To the city centre
Reading Station -> Reading Station, Reading
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Contactless payment works on all Reading Buses services, and daily charges are capped automatically at the day ticket rate.
- For multi-operator travel, the Reading All-Bus Day ticket covers Reading Buses and selected other local operators.
FAQs: Basingstoke to Reading train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basingstoke to Reading by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Reading, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Basingstoke to Reading can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £8, while the average price tends to be around £9.
The train journey from Basingstoke to Reading covers a distance of 23 km and takes approximately 21m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Basingstoke to Reading is 23 km.
The first train from Basingstoke to Reading leaves at 0:05.
The last train from Basingstoke to Reading departs at 23:41.
Trains from Basingstoke to Reading run approximately 8 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Basingstoke to Reading.
Yes, there is a direct train between Basingstoke and Reading. The service operates 7 times per day, provided by South Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR).
To travel from Basingstoke to Reading, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Basingstoke to Reading.
The train station in Basingstoke that goes to Reading is Basingstoke station (BSK), and it arrives at Reading station (RDG).
The cheapest way to get from Basingstoke to Reading is by train, costing approximately £8.
Booking trains from Basingstoke to Reading in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Basingstoke to Reading is relatively short and primarily passes through suburban areas and countryside. While not renowned for its scenic views, travellers can enjoy glimpses of the English countryside, including fields and occasional wooded areas.
Yes, a day trip from Basingstoke to Reading is feasible with a journey time of 21m and a distance of 23 km. Trains run frequently with 6 trips per day.
To fully explore Reading's attractions, two to three days are ideal.
Yes, you can take the train from Basingstoke to Reading.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Basingstoke and Reading
Most Basingstoke to Reading trains use the Basingstoke to Reading station pair, with some services arriving at Reading West. Use this guide to compare Basingstoke and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Basingstoke
Arrival train stations in Reading
Which Basingstoke station do trains to Reading leave from?
Trains from Basingstoke to Reading leave from Basingstoke. The station is 1 km from Basingstoke city centre at Basingstoke station, Station Hill, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 5NB.
BasingstokeBasingstoke station, Station Hill, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 5NB+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Basingstoke from Basingstoke city centre
Bus3, 11, 16 · 5m · £2 · every ~28 min
Basingstoke train station facilities and services
Basingstoke has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Basingstoke.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Basingstoke. ATMs are available at Basingstoke.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Basingstoke.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Basingstoke: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Basingstoke: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Basingstoke: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B2 station. This station has step-free access to all platforms via lifts from the main entrance. The rear entrance has level access to Platforms 4 and 5 (and to other platforms via lifts) but is only open Monday-Friday 0600 until 1000 and from 1500 until 2345 (closed at weekends) - outside these times a stepped subway must be used. The alternative step-free route from the rear to the main entrance via the street is approximately 380m and includes missing dropped kerbs and sections of route without a pavement. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Reading station do trains from Basingstoke arrive at?
Trains from Basingstoke to Reading most often arrive at Reading. Some services arrive at Reading West, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Reading arrival station.
ReadingReading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading from Reading city centre
Bus26, 90, 87 · 2m · £2 · every ~15 min
Reading train station facilities and services
Reading has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Reading.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Reading.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Reading.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Reading: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Reading: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: platforms can be reached via lift and bridge, ticket office is step free, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Accessible low-level Pay Phone is available at the station main concourse. Please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxi are available at the station entrance. please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office and at the car park, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Reading WestReading West station, Oxford Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 7PY
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading West from Reading city centre
Reading West is 1 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainReading - Basingstoke, Reading - Newbury, Reading - Bedwyn, London Paddington - Bedwyn · 2m · £0.90 · every ~6 min
Bus15, 15a, 16, 17, 91, 85, 88, 93, 43 · 4m · £2 · every ~49 min
Reading West train station facilities and services
Reading West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Reading West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Reading West.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Reading West: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Reading West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category B3 - This station has a degree of step free access but only to Platform 1 and only if accessed via Tilehurst Road. Otherwise this station can be classified as Category C. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Reading Green ParkReading RG2 6AU, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading Green Park from Reading city centre
Reading Green Park is 3 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainReading - Basingstoke · 6m · £2 · every ~4 min
Bus9 · 39m · £2 · every ~3 min
Reading Green Park train station facilities and services
Reading Green Park has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading Green Park.
More options for your journey from Basingstoke to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Basingstoke
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