- 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 Cambridge to Reading
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 09 Oct
Cheapest price on 09 Oct
£66
Average ticket price on 09 Oct
£66
Fastest journey on 09 Oct
2 h 2 m
Average journey duration on 09 Oct
2 h 8 m
Trains on 09 Oct
6
Distance
111 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cambridge to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cambridge to Reading will cost around £66 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £66.
Fast trains
To travel from Cambridge to Reading you need to make at least 2 changes.
W45408+
C371998:252h47Cambridge South11:12Reading station (RDG)£661One-way1 change- W45489+
G14979+C383478:512h08Cambridge station (CBG)10:59Reading station (RDG)£661One-way2 changes - W45408+W35111+C382928:252h13Cambridge South10:38Reading station (RDG)£661One-way2 changes
C93336+
Tube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington+W346808:162h07Cambridge South10:23Reading station (RDG)£661One-way2 changes- C82681+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington+G149387:592h12Cambridge South10:11Reading station (RDG)£661One-way2 changes
- G27004+W34874+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington8:452h02Cambridge South10:47Reading station (RDG)£661One-way2 changes
- C93336+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington+W346808:162h07Cambridge South10:23Reading station (RDG)£661One-way2 changes
- W45489+G14979+C383478:512h08Cambridge station (CBG)10:59Reading station (RDG)£661One-way2 changes
- C82681+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington+G149387:592h12Cambridge South10:11Reading station (RDG)£661One-way2 changes
- W45408+W35111+C382928:252h13Cambridge South10:38Reading station (RDG)£661One-way2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cambridge to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cambridge to Reading run on average 13 times per day, taking around 1h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £64 but you can travel from only £42 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 00:53, the last at 23:12. The fastest train covers the 111 km distance in 1h 24m.
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
Coach from £42
Distance 111 km |
Average train duration 1h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price £64 |
Trains per day 13 |
Fastest train 1h 24m |
First train 0:53 |
Last train 23:12 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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
Coach from £42
Live departures
Cambridge to Reading train times
The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Reading trains for today, Thursday 8 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W45468+G14934+Tube from London St Pancras International to London Paddington | On time 5:51 Cambridge station (CBG) | 2h20 | 8:11 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
| C82681+G14938+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington | On time 7:59 Cambridge South | 2h12 | 10:11 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
| C93336+W34680+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington | On time 8:16 Cambridge South | 2h07 | 10:23 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
| W45408+C37199 | On time 8:25 Cambridge South | 2h47 | 11:12 Reading station (RDG) | 1 change | |
| W45408+C38292+W35111 | On time 8:25 Cambridge South | 2h13 | 10:38 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
| G27004+W34874+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington | On time 8:45 Cambridge South | 2h02 | 10:47 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
| W45489+C38347+G14979 | On time 8:51 Cambridge station (CBG) | 2h08 | 10:59 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
| G77035+G14942+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington | On time 16:16 Cambridge South | 1h55 | 18:11 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
| W45411+C37159 | On time 16:25 Cambridge South | 2h41 | 19:06 Reading station (RDG) | 1 change | |
| W45411+C38576+W35096 | On time 16:25 Cambridge South | 2h09 | 18:34 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
| G77041+G14943+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington | On time 16:46 Cambridge South | 1h55 | 18:41 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
| W45386+C37171 | On time 16:51 Cambridge station (CBG) | 2h44 | 19:35 Reading station (RDG) | 1 change | |
| W45386+G14944+Tube from London St Pancras International to London Paddington | On time 16:51 Cambridge station (CBG) | 2h20 | 19:11 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cambridge to Reading trains with Omio?
Great Northern as well as Greater Anglia, Thameslink, Elizabeth line and more offer trains services from Cambridge to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cambridge to Reading.
Why book with Omio vs Great Northern?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Northern, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia, Thameslink or Elizabeth line to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge 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 Great Northern with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cambridge to Reading.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia, Thameslink or Elizabeth line to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge to Reading.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cambridge to Reading.
Train companies: Great Northern, Greater Anglia, Thameslink, Elizabeth line from Cambridge to Reading trainsGreat Northern, Greater Anglia, Thameslink, Elizabeth line trains will get you between Cambridge and Reading from £42. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Greater Anglia
About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greater Anglia Duration
2h 15m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
£64
Greater Anglia frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone
Great Northern
About
Great Northern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It offers a wide range of services, including high-speed trains, regional trains, and sleeper services. The high-speed trains are called InterCity Express Trains and they offer a fast and comfortable journey between major cities. The regional trains are called Regional Express Trains and they provide a slower but more frequent service to smaller towns and villages. The sleeper services are called Caledonian Sleeper Trains and they offer overnight journeys with comfortable sleeping compartments. Great Northern offers a variety of ticket types, including single, return, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Great Northern are London to Cambridge, London to Peterborough, and London to Norwich. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Northern Duration
1h 24m
Cheapest Great Northern Price
£64
Great Northern frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free, maximum two dogs per passenger, must be on lead
Quiet zone
Thameslink
About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Thameslink Duration
1h 41m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
£64
Thameslink frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Elizabeth line
About
Tfl Rail is a railway service operated by Transport for London in the United Kingdom. It operates on the Great Western Main Line and the Heathrow branch of the London Underground. The service runs from Paddington in London to Reading, Maidenhead, Slough, and Heathrow Airport. It also serves the towns of Taplow, Burnham, Twyford, and Hayes & Harlington. All trains are air-conditioned and feature onboard Wi-Fi, power sockets, and digital information screens. Tfl Rail offers a range of ticket types, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and Oyster cards. Oyster cards are the most popular ticket type, allowing passengers to pay for their journey with a single card. The most popular routes for Tfl Rail are Paddington to Reading, Paddington to Maidenhead, and Paddington to Heathrow Airport. These routes offer frequent services and provide passengers with a convenient way to travel between London and the surrounding areas.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Elizabeth line Duration
2h 18m
Cheapest Elizabeth line Price
£66
Elizabeth line frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available through TfL website or customer service
Refund
Full refund available for service cancellations
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
No dedicated dining car. Passengers can bring their own food and drinks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Step-free access at most stations, wheelchair spaces on trains, priority seating
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be leashed. Guide dogs welcome
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.
FAQs: Cambridge to Reading train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cambridge 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 Cambridge to Reading can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £64, while the average price tends to be around £65.
The train journey from Cambridge to Reading covers a distance of 111 km and takes approximately 1h 24m. Trains run 13 per day.
The train distance from Cambridge to Reading is 111 km.
The first train from Cambridge to Reading leaves at 0:53.
The last train from Cambridge to Reading departs at 23:12.
Trains from Cambridge to Reading run approximately 13 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cambridge to Reading.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cambridge to Reading.
There is no night train service from Cambridge to Reading.
The train station in Cambridge that goes to Reading is Cambridge South, and it arrives at Reading station (RDG).
Booking trains from Cambridge 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 Cambridge to Reading offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through charming countryside landscapes and picturesque villages, making it a pleasant experience for travellers.
Yes, you can take the train from Cambridge to Reading.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cambridge and Reading
Most Cambridge to Reading trains use the Cambridge South to Reading station pair. Use this guide to compare Cambridge and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cambridge
Arrival train stations in Reading
Cambridge SouthTrumpington, Cambridge CB2 9FQ, UK
CambridgeCambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge from Cambridge city centre
Cambridge is 1 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:
BusU1, U2 · 11m · every ~11 min
Tour · 13m · £2
75 · 15m
A · 15m · £2 · every ~11 min
Cambridge train station facilities and services
Cambridge has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cambridge.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge. ATMs are available at Cambridge.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cambridge.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cambridge: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cambridge: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, 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: No.
Which Reading station do trains from Cambridge arrive at?
Trains from Cambridge to Reading arrive at Reading. Reading is from Reading city centre.
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.
Most popular train connections from Cambridge
More options for your journey from Cambridge to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Cambridge
Most popular train connections to Reading
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