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The cheapest and fastest trains from Harlow to Reading
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 17 Sept
Cheapest price on 17 Sept
£33
Average ticket price on 17 Sept
£33
Fastest journey on 17 Sept
1 h 58 m
Average journey duration on 17 Sept
1 h 58 m
Trains on 17 Sept
1
Distance
83 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Harlow to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Harlow to Reading will cost around £33 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £33.
Fast trains
On Thu 17 Sept, we found 1 trains from Harlow to Reading, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 83 km distance in an average of 1 h 58 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 58 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 58 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.
6:431h58Harlow8:41Reading£331One-way0 changes
- 6:431h58Harlow8:41Reading£331One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train for Harlow to Reading
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Harlow to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £34 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 43m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £34, while a train costs an average of £34.
Distance: 83 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£34 Average Price Cheapest | £18 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 43m Average total duration Fastest 1h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 28m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Harlow to Reading is a train with an average price of £34.
The fastest way to travel from Harlow to Reading is by train with an average journey time of 1h 13m.
Yes, you can take a train between Harlow and Reading.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 15m sooner (1h 13m by train vs 1h 28m by car). Tickets start at around £34 compared to roughly £18 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Harlow to Reading train times
The table below shows live departures for Harlow to Reading trains for tomorrow, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:43 Harlow | 1h58 | 8:41 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Harlow to Reading by train
Compare train 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.
Thu
17 Sept
17 Sept
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
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20 Sept
20 Sept
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21 Sept
21 Sept
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22 Sept
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
23 Sept
Why should you book Harlow to Reading trains with Omio?
Greater Anglia as well as Stansted Express offer trains services from Harlow to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Harlow to Reading.
Why book with Omio vs Greater Anglia?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greater Anglia, but also compare tickets for the likes of Stansted Express to find the best option for your trip from Harlow 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Harlow to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Harlow to Reading run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £34 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 21:26. The fastest train covers the 83 km distance in 1h 58m.
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 83 km |
Average train duration 1h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price £34 |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 1h 58m |
First train 0:02 |
Last train 21:26 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Best time to book 5 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
Train companies: Greater Anglia, Stansted Express from Harlow to Reading trainsGreater Anglia, Stansted Express trains will get you between Harlow and Reading from £34. 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
1h 44m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
£64
Greater Anglia frequency
14 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
What's included in each class
Compare Greater Anglia classes and the amenities included in each one.
Standard
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
Stansted Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Stansted Express Duration
1h 28m
Cheapest Stansted Express Price
£46
Stansted Express frequency
37 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
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.
- 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: Harlow to Reading train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Harlow 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 Harlow to Reading can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £34, while the average price tends to be around £34.
The train journey from Harlow to Reading covers a distance of 83 km and takes approximately 1h 58m. Trains run 9 per day.
The train distance from Harlow to Reading is 83 km.
The first train from Harlow to Reading leaves at 0:02.
The last train from Harlow to Reading departs at 21:26.
Trains from Harlow to Reading run approximately 9 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Harlow to Reading.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Harlow to Reading.
To travel from Harlow to Reading, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Harlow to Reading.
The train station in Harlow that goes to Reading is Harlow Town (HWN), and it arrives at Reading station (RDG).
The cheapest way to get from Harlow to Reading is by train, costing approximately £34.
Booking trains from Harlow 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 Harlow to Reading offers varied scenery, passing through the urban landscapes of London and then transitioning to more peaceful countryside views as the train approaches Reading.
A day trip from Harlow to Reading is possible since the journey takes 1h 58m and there are 6 trains available per day, covering a distance of 83 km.
To fully explore Reading's attractions, two to three days are ideal.
Yes, you can take the train from Harlow to Reading.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Harlow and Reading
Most Harlow to Reading trains use the Harlow Town to Reading station pair. Use this guide to compare Harlow and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Harlow
Arrival train stations in Reading
Which Harlow station do trains to Reading leave from?
Trains from Harlow to Reading leave from Harlow Town. The station is 1 km from Harlow city centre at Harlow Town station, Station Approach, off Edinburgh Way, Harlow, Essex, CM20 2JD.
Harlow TownHarlow Town station, Station Approach, off Edinburgh Way, Harlow, Essex, CM20 2JD+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Harlow Town from Harlow city centre
Harlow Town is 1 km from Harlow city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10 · 21m · £2
Harlow Town train station facilities and services
Harlow Town has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Harlow Town.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Harlow Town.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Harlow Town. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Harlow Town: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Harlow Town: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Harlow Town: 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 Harlow arrive at?
Trains from Harlow 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 Harlow
More options for your journey from Harlow to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Harlow
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