Derby to Reading train with East Midlands Railway

Thu 08 Oct
+ Add return
CrossCountry
East Midlands Railway
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
East Midlands Railway
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Derby to Reading

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 08 Oct

Cheapest price on 08 Oct

£30

Average ticket price on 08 Oct

£59

Fastest journey on 08 Oct

2 h 16 m

Average journey duration on 08 Oct

2 h 52 m

Trains on 08 Oct

3

Distance

167 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Derby to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Derby to Reading will cost around £59 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £30.

Fast trains

On Thu 08 Oct, we found 3 trains from Derby to Reading, including 3 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 167 km distance in an average of 2 h 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 16 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 h 24 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.

  • CrossCountry
    7:512h16
    Derby
    10:07Reading
    £301One-way
    0 changes
  • CrossCountry
    18:432h55
    Derby
    21:38Reading
    £411One-way
    0 changes
  • East Midlands Railway
    3:473h24
    Derby
    7:11Reading
    £1051One-way
    0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Derby to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Derby to Reading run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £23 if you book in advance.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:24, the last at 22:20. The fastest train covers the 167 km distance in 2h 5m.

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
167 km
Average train duration
2h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
£23
Trains per day
5
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
2h 5m
First train
2:24
Last train
22:20
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
28 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

Live departures

Derby to Reading train times

The table below shows live departures for Derby to Reading trains for tomorrow, Thursday 8 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
East Midlands Railway3:47 Derby
3h24
7:11 Reading0 changesdirect
CrossCountry7:51 Derby
2h16
10:07 Reading0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Derby to Reading trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as East Midlands Railway or Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Derby to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Derby 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 East Midlands Railway or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Derby 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Derby to Reading.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Rome2rio or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of East Midlands Railway or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Derby to Reading.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Derby to Reading.

Train companies: East Midlands Railway, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast from Derby to Reading trainsEast Midlands Railway, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Derby and Reading from £23. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

East Midlands Railway

About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average East Midlands Railway Duration
2h 6m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
£100
East Midlands Railway frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the 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
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
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
2h 5m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£23
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

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
2h 6m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£112
Avanti West Coast frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
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

Reading Museum

Reading’s main museum explores local history, archaeology, and art. Best known for the Victorian copy of the Bayeux Tapestry.

  • 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.

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.

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.

A view of London

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.

A view of Oxford

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.

A view of Bath

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.

A view of Bristol

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.

A view of Windsor

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: Derby to Reading train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Derby 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.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Derby to Reading can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £23, while the average price tends to be around £98.
The train journey from Derby to Reading covers a distance of 167 km and takes approximately 2h 5m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Derby to Reading is 167 km.
The first train from Derby to Reading leaves at 2:24.
The last train from Derby to Reading departs at 22:20.
Trains from Derby to Reading run approximately 5 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Derby to Reading.
Yes, there is a direct train between Derby and Reading. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by CrossCountry.
There is no night train service from Derby to Reading.
The train station in Derby that goes to Reading is Derby station (DBY), and it arrives at Reading station (RDG).
Booking trains from Derby 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 Derby to Reading offers a mix of urban and rural scenery. Passengers can enjoy views of the rolling countryside, charming villages, and historic towns, especially as the route passes through the picturesque Midlands.
Yes, you can take the train from Derby to Reading.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Derby and Reading

Most Derby to Reading trains use the Derby to Reading station pair. Use this guide to compare Derby and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Derby
Arrival train stations in Reading

Which Derby station do trains to Reading leave from?

Trains from Derby to Reading leave from Derby. The station is 1 km from Derby city centre at Derby station, Railway Terrace, Derby, Derbyshire, DE1 2RU.
DerbyDerby station, Railway Terrace, Derby, Derbyshire, DE1 2RU+44 3457125678ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Derby from Derby city centre

Derby is 1 km from Derby city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus70A · 4m
Sky · 4m · £2 · every ~14 min
U1, Dp1 · 10m · £0.89 · every ~2 min

Derby train station facilities and services

Derby has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Derby.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Derby.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Derby.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Derby: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Derby: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Derby: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A step free station. This station has step free access. There are lifts to all platforms. There is a subway to platforms 2,3,4 and 5. Platforms 6 and 7 are accessed by lift only. This station has tactile paving at the edges of all platforms and at the foot and top of stairwells, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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.

More options for your journey from Derby to Reading

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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