- 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 Bournemouth to Reading
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 13 Oct
Cheapest price on 13 Oct
£14
Average ticket price on 13 Oct
£44
Fastest journey on 13 Oct
1 h 20 m
Average journey duration on 13 Oct
1 h 32 m
Trains on 13 Oct
8
Distance
104 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bournemouth to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bournemouth to Reading will cost around £44 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £14.
Fast trains
On Tue 13 Oct, we found 8 trains from Bournemouth to Reading, including 3 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 104 km distance in an average of 1 h 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 20 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.
G0089114:451h24Bournemouth station (BMH)16:09Reading station (RDG)£141One-way0 changes- G0089515:451h20Bournemouth station (BMH)17:05Reading station (RDG)£181One-way0 changes
- G0088713:451h21Bournemouth station (BMH)15:06Reading station (RDG)£181One-way0 changes
L78744+G008495:072h01Bournemouth station (BMH)7:08Reading station (RDG)£571One-way1 change- L80116 · L79976+
C0308015:571h47Bournemouth station (BMH)17:44Reading West (RDW)£601One-way2 changes
- G0089515:451h20Bournemouth station (BMH)17:05Reading station (RDG)£181One-way0 changes
- G0088713:451h21Bournemouth station (BMH)15:06Reading station (RDG)£181One-way0 changes
- G0089114:451h24Bournemouth station (BMH)16:09Reading station (RDG)£141One-way0 changes
- L80116 · L79976+C0308015:571h47Bournemouth station (BMH)17:44Reading West (RDW)£601One-way2 changes
- L80106 · L79970+C0307514:571h47Bournemouth station (BMH)16:44Reading West (RDW)£601One-way2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bournemouth to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bournemouth to Reading run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £9 if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:12, the last at 23:38. The fastest train covers the 104 km distance in 1h 20m.
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 104 km |
Average train duration 1h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price £9 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 1h 20m |
First train 5:12 |
Last train 23:38 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
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
Live departures
Bournemouth to Reading train times
The table below shows live departures for Bournemouth to Reading trains for today, Monday 12 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13:59 Bournemouth | 1h50 | 15:49 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 14:45 Bournemouth | 1h24 | 16:09 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 16:45 Bournemouth | 1h22 | 18:07 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| Tuesday 13 October | |||||
| L78744+G00849 | 5:07 Bournemouth station (BMH) | 2h01 | 7:08 Reading station (RDG) | 1 change | |
| L78870+C03032 | 5:48 Bournemouth station (BMH) | 1h54 | 7:42 Reading West (RDW) | 1 change | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Bournemouth to Reading trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as South Western Railway offer trains services from Bournemouth to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bournemouth to Reading.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Bournemouth 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bournemouth to Reading.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Bournemouth to Reading.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bournemouth to Reading.
Train companies: CrossCountry, South Western Railway from Bournemouth to Reading trainsCrossCountry, South Western Railway trains will get you between Bournemouth and Reading from £9. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
1h 20m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£9
CrossCountry frequency
3 a day
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
1h 26m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£18
South Western Railway frequency
3 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
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.
Best day trips from Reading by train
The most popular day trips by train 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 train from Reading on Omio.
Day trip from Reading to London by train
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 train?
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 59 km distance in 22m.
Day trip from Reading to Oxford by train
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 train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 38 km distance in 21m.
Day trip from Reading to Bath by train
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 train?
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:39. The fastest train covers the 97 km distance in 48m.
Day trip from Reading to Bristol by train
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 train?
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 113 km distance in 54m.
Day trip from Reading to Windsor by train
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 train?
The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 26 km distance in 16m.
FAQs: Bournemouth to Reading train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth to Reading can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £9, while the average price tends to be around £35.
The train journey from Bournemouth to Reading covers a distance of 104 km and takes approximately 1h 20m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Bournemouth to Reading is 104 km.
The first train from Bournemouth to Reading leaves at 5:12.
The last train from Bournemouth to Reading departs at 23:38.
Trains from Bournemouth to Reading run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Bournemouth to Reading.
Yes, there is a direct train between Bournemouth and Reading. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry.
There is no night train service from Bournemouth to Reading.
The train station in Bournemouth that goes to Reading is Bournemouth station (BMH), and it arrives at Reading station (RDG).
Booking trains from Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth to Reading offers pleasant views of the English countryside, featuring rolling hills and charming villages, though it is not generally considered one of the most scenic routes in the UK.
Yes, you can take the train from Bournemouth to Reading.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bournemouth and Reading
Most Bournemouth to Reading trains use the Bournemouth to Reading station pair, with some services arriving at Reading West. Use this guide to compare Bournemouth and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bournemouth
Arrival train stations in Reading
Which Bournemouth station do trains to Reading leave from?
Trains from Bournemouth to Reading leave from Bournemouth. The station is 1 km from Bournemouth city centre at Bournemouth station, Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 8HX.
BournemouthBournemouth station, Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 8HX+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Bournemouth from Bournemouth city centre
Bournemouth is 1 km from Bournemouth city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus13, 5, 6, 50, m1, 12, 13A, N5, N1, 11, 21 · 6m · £2 · every ~74 min
m1, 5, 6, 50, 13, 12, 13A, 21, 11, N5, N1 · 7m · £2 · every ~74 min
Bournemouth train station facilities and services
Bournemouth has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bournemouth.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bournemouth.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bournemouth.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bournemouth: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bournemouth: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bournemouth: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B2 station. Level access to both sides of station from separate entrances. Long and steep ramped subway between platforms - up to 1:8 gradient Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial 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 Bournemouth arrive at?
Trains from Bournemouth 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 · £0.89 · 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.
Most popular train connections from Bournemouth
More options for your journey from Bournemouth to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Bournemouth
Most popular train connections to Reading
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