- 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 Cheltenham to Reading
Showing times and prices for 18 Aug
Cheapest price
£35
Average price
£35
Fastest journey
1 h 30 m
Average duration
1 h 30 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
91 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cheltenham to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cheltenham to Reading will cost around £35 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £35.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Cheltenham for Reading every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 91 km distance in an average of 1 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 30 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 30 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.
10:031h30Cheltenham11:33Reading£351One-way0 changes
- 10:031h30Cheltenham11:33Reading£351One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cheltenham to Reading
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cheltenham to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £13. For those with little time consider booking a coach which can get you there in 1h 26m. 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 coach costs an average of £13, and a train costs an average of £35.
Distance: 91 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£38 Average Price | £18 Average Price Cheapest |
2h 2m Average total duration 1h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 56m Average total duration Fastest 1h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cheltenham to Reading train times
The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Reading trains for today, Monday 17 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
.png) | 5:53 Cheltenham | 1h33 | 7:26 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 6:14 Cheltenham | 2h09 | 8:23 Reading | 1 change | |
| 6:48 Cheltenham | 1h38 | 8:26 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
 | 7:29 Cheltenham | 1h47 | 9:16 Reading | 1 change | |
| 7:55 Cheltenham | 1h36 | 9:31 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:01 Cheltenham | 1h48 | 9:49 Reading | 1 change | |
| 8:29 Cheltenham | 1h40 | 10:09 Reading | 1 change | |
| 8:52 Cheltenham | 1h58 | 10:50 Reading | 1 change | |
| 9:03 Cheltenham | 1h30 | 10:33 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:52 Cheltenham | 1h27 | 11:19 Reading | 1 change | |
| 10:03 Cheltenham | 1h30 | 11:33 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:52 Cheltenham | 1h28 | 12:20 Reading | 1 change | |
| 11:03 Cheltenham | 1h30 | 12:33 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 11:52 Cheltenham | 1h26 | 13:18 Reading | 1 change | |
| 12:03 Cheltenham | 1h30 | 13:33 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 12:52 Cheltenham | 1h25 | 14:17 Reading | 1 change | |
| 13:03 Cheltenham | 1h31 | 14:34 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 13:52 Cheltenham | 1h24 | 15:16 Reading | 1 change | |
| 14:03 Cheltenham | 1h30 | 15:33 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 14:52 Cheltenham | 1h24 | 16:16 Reading | 1 change | |
| 15:03 Cheltenham | 1h30 | 16:33 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 15:52 Cheltenham | 1h26 | 17:18 Reading | 1 change | |
| 16:03 Cheltenham | 1h30 | 17:33 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 16:52 Cheltenham | 1h25 | 18:17 Reading | 1 change | |
| 17:03 Cheltenham | 1h31 | 18:34 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cheltenham to Reading by train or coach
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.
Tue
18 Aug
18 Aug
Wed
19 Aug
19 Aug
Thu
20 Aug
20 Aug
Fri
21 Aug
21 Aug
Sat
22 Aug
22 Aug
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23 Aug
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24 Aug
24 Aug
Why should you book Cheltenham to Reading trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Cheltenham to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cheltenham 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 Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cheltenham 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 Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cheltenham to Reading.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cheltenham to Reading.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cheltenham to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cheltenham to Reading run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £35 but you can travel from only £13 by coach.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:33, the last at 22:57. The fastest train covers the 91 km distance in 1h 30m.
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 £13
Distance 91 km |
Average train duration 1h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price £35 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 1h 30m |
First train 4:33 |
Last train 22:57 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 42 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 £13
Train companies: Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Cheltenham to Reading trainsGreat Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Cheltenham and Reading from £13. 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 Duration
1h 30m
Cheapest Price
£35
Great Western Railway frequency
6 a day
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 24m
Cheapest Price
£114
Cross Country frequency
12 a day
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 30m
Cheapest Price
£58
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
13 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: Cheltenham to Reading train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham to Reading can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £35, while the average price tends to be around £38.
The train journey from Cheltenham to Reading covers a distance of 91 km and takes approximately 1h 30m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Cheltenham to Reading is 91 km.
The first train from Cheltenham to Reading leaves at 4:33.
The last train from Cheltenham to Reading departs at 22:57.
Trains from Cheltenham to Reading run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cheltenham to Reading.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cheltenham and Reading. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR).
To get from Cheltenham to Reading, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Cheltenham to Reading.
The train station in Cheltenham that goes to Reading is Cheltenham Spa (CNM), and it arrives at Reading station (RDG).
The cheapest way to get from Cheltenham to Reading is by coach, costing approximately £13.
Booking trains from Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham to Reading offers a pleasant view of the English countryside, passing through the Cotswolds and rural landscapes, which many passengers find scenic.
Yes, a day trip from Cheltenham to Reading is feasible as the journey takes 1h 30m, covers 91 km, and there are 4 trains per day.
To fully explore Reading's attractions, two to three days are ideal.
Yes, you can take the train from Cheltenham to Reading.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cheltenham and Reading
Most Cheltenham to Reading trains use the Cheltenham Spa to Reading station pair, with some services arriving at Reading West. Use this guide to compare Cheltenham and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cheltenham
Arrival train stations in Reading
Which Cheltenham station do trains to Reading leave from?
Trains from Cheltenham to Reading leave from Cheltenham Spa. The station is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre at Cheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom.
Cheltenham SpaCheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom+44 345 165 2030
City-centre transport
Getting to Cheltenham Spa from Cheltenham city centre
Cheltenham Spa is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD, E, G · 7m · £4 · every ~25 min
M1 · 8m
Cheltenham Spa train station facilities and services
Cheltenham Spa has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Railway Inn, The Coconut Tree
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham Spa. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Cheltenham Spa. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham Spa: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Queens Hotel Cheltenham, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cheltenham, Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cheltenham.
Which Reading station do trains from Cheltenham arrive at?
Trains from Cheltenham 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.
More options for your journey from Cheltenham to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Cheltenham
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