- Must visit
Reading Museum
Reading’s main museum explores local history, archaeology, and art. Best known for the Victorian copy of the Bayeux Tapestry.
Cheapest price
£40
Average price
£57
Fastest journey
1 h 32 m
Average duration
1 h 35 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
131 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Birmingham to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Birmingham to Reading will cost around £57 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £40.
Of the 6 trains that leave Birmingham for Reading every day 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 131 km distance in an average of 1 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 32 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 39 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.
G01178
G01176
W29925
G01000
G01005
W29925
G01178
G01176
G01005
G01000Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Birmingham to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 58m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £9, and a coach costs an average of £12.
Distance: 131 km
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£30 Average Price Cheapest | £44 Average Price |
2h 28m Average total duration Fastest 1h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 9m Average total duration 2h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Reading trains for today, Thursday 27 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G01000 | On time 8:03 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h39 | 9:42 Reading station (RDG) | 0 changesdirect | |
G01176 | On time 8:33 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h34 | 10:07 Reading station (RDG) | 0 changesdirect | |
G01003 | On time 9:03 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h42 | 10:45 Reading station (RDG) | 0 changesdirect | |
W29925 | On time 9:33 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h32 | 11:05 Reading station (RDG) | 0 changesdirect | |
G01005 | On time 10:03 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h37 | 11:40 Reading station (RDG) | 0 changesdirect | |
G01178 | On time 10:33 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h32 | 12:05 Reading station (RDG) | 0 changesdirect | |
W34130+ Y15421+ Tube from London Euston to London Paddington | On time 10:47 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h29 | 13:16 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
G01009 | On time 11:03 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h34 | 12:37 Reading station (RDG) | 0 changesdirect | |
W34265+ Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+ W34889 | On time 11:16 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h30 | 13:46 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
W34233+ W35418+ Tube from London Euston to London Paddington | On time 11:21 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h50 | 14:11 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
G01180 | On time 11:33 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h33 | 13:06 Reading station (RDG) | 0 changesdirect | |
Y80859 · C17874+ Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+ W34629 | On time 11:36 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 3h02 | 14:38 Reading station (RDG) | 3 changes | |
G01013 | On time 12:03 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h38 | 13:41 Reading station (RDG) | 0 changesdirect | |
W33903+ Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+ W34894 | On time 12:17 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h29 | 14:46 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
W33910+ Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+ W34630 | On time 12:21 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h50 | 15:11 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
G01018 | On time 13:03 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h39 | 14:42 Reading station (RDG) | 0 changesdirect | |
W33933+ Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+ Y15427 | On time 13:17 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h29 | 15:46 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
G01184 | On time 13:33 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h33 | 15:06 Reading station (RDG) | 0 changesdirect | |
W33959+ W34712+ Tube from London Euston to London Paddington | On time 13:47 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h36 | 16:23 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
G01022 | On time 14:03 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h39 | 15:42 Reading station (RDG) | 0 changesdirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train and coach 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.
Trains from Birmingham to Reading run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £9 if you book in advance.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:35, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 131 km distance in 1h 32m.
Distance 131 km |
Average train duration 1h 58m |
Cheapest ticket price £9 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 1h 32m |
First train 1:35 |
Last train 23:50 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
Discover the best of Reading — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Reading trip today.
Reading’s main museum explores local history, archaeology, and art. Best known for the Victorian copy of the Bayeux Tapestry.
Small museum beside the abbey ruins with exhibits on Reading’s medieval abbey. Good for context before walking the historic quarter.
University museum covering farming, countryside life, and design. Engaging displays make it a distinctive and family-friendly visit.
Large riverside park with formal gardens, open lawns, and abbey remains. Ideal for relaxing walks close to the town centre.
Traffic-free shopping street at the heart of Reading. A practical and lively route linking major shops, historic lanes, and public spaces.
Riverside walking area along the Thames near Caversham Bridge. Visit for benches, water views, and an easy stroll near the centre.
Berkshire pork sausages are a long-standing county staple, prized for well-seasoned local pork and often served with mash in traditional pubs.
Spotted dick is a classic steamed suet pudding with dried fruit, commonly served with custard and strongly associated with traditional English cooking.
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.
Refined modern British dining in elegant surroundings, known for carefully plated tasting-style dishes and polished service.
Traditional pub by the Thames serving British classics, Sunday roasts and local drinks in a relaxed historic setting.
Popular central Reading restaurant specialising in well-cooked steaks, grills and hearty sides in a lively contemporary space.
Moderate for England: hotels are often cheaper than London, but dining, drinks and rail fares still add up for visitors.
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip about 10% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional.
Official public transport app
Reading Station -> Reading Station, Reading
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham 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.

Most Birmingham to Reading trains use the Birmingham New Street to Reading station pair, with some services arriving at Reading West. Use this guide to compare Birmingham and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Birmingham New Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food options include: All Bar One, Leon, Caffè Nero, Five Guys, Krispy Kreme, The Pasty Shop, Upper Crust, Wasabi, Starbucks, Hotel Chocolat
Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available from Sky Wi-Fi The Cloud. ATMs are aTM machines are located on the paid concourse.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:15 - 23:00, Sun: 07:30 - 23:00. Information desks are in the middle of the station.
Luggage storage is you can leave bags with Excess Baggage Co inside the entrance off Hill Street. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Birmingham New Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Birmingham New Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham New Street: Step-free access in the whole station and ramps available for train access. All platforms have elevators and escalators.
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Birmingham City Center, Premier Inn Birmingham City Center (New St Station), Radisson Blue Hotel, Birmingham.
Birmingham Moor Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Birmingham Moor Street.
Wi-Fi is available at Birmingham Moor Street. ATMs are available at Birmingham Moor Street.
Ticket office support is available at Birmingham Moor Street.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Birmingham Moor Street: Parking, WC.
Available at Birmingham Moor Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham Moor Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Access Category A. Step free access to all platforms, Accessible taxis: If you would like us to assist you in booking an accessible taxi for your onward journey please contact 03456 005 165, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Birmingham International is 12 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:
Birmingham International has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Birmingham International.
Wi-Fi is available at Birmingham International. ATMs are available at Birmingham International.
Ticket office support is available at Birmingham International. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Birmingham International: Parking, WC.
Available at Birmingham International: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham International: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
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 options are available at Reading.
ATMs are available at Reading.
Ticket office support is available at Reading.
Available at Reading: Parking, WC.
Available at Reading: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
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 West is 1 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options are available at Reading West.
Ticket office support is available at Reading West.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Reading West: Parking.
Available at Reading West: Bike Parking.
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.
Tilehurst is 4 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
Tilehurst has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Tilehurst.
Wi-Fi is available at Tilehurst.
Ticket office support is available at Tilehurst.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Tilehurst: Parking, WC.
Available at Tilehurst: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Tilehurst: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step free Category C - This station does not have step free access to operational platforms, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible Taxis available at this station Please call our free help line for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: No, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
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