- 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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11:162h24Hertford13:40Reading£391One-way1 change- 11:462h24Hertford14:10Reading£391One-way1 change
- 12:162h24Hertford14:40Reading£391One-way1 change
- 12:462h24Hertford15:10Reading£391One-way1 change
- 13:162h24Hertford15:40Reading£391One-way1 change
- 20:162h18Hertford22:34Reading£391One-way1 change
- 20:462h19Hertford23:05Reading£391One-way1 change
- 11:162h24Hertford13:40Reading£391One-way1 change
- 11:462h24Hertford14:10Reading£391One-way1 change
- 12:162h24Hertford14:40Reading£391One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Hertford to Reading
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Hertford to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £39. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 45m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £39, and a coach costs an average of £39.
Distance: 72 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£43 Average Price Cheapest | £69 Average Price |
2h 15m Average total duration Fastest 1h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 59m Average total duration 4h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Compare prices and tickets Hertford 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.
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Why should you book Hertford to Reading trains with Omio?
Elizabeth line as well as Greater Anglia or Great Northern offer trains services from Hertford to Reading.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Elizabeth line tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Elizabeth line?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Elizabeth line, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia or Great Northern to find the best option for your trip from Hertford 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 Elizabeth line with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Hertford to Reading.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Hertford to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Hertford to Reading run on average 5 times per day, taking around 1h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £39 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 01:15, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 72 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 72 km |
Average train duration 1h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price £39 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 1h 58m |
First train 1:15 |
Last train 23:36 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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: Elizabeth line, Greater Anglia, Great Northern from Hertford to Reading trainsElizabeth line, Greater Anglia, Great Northern trains will get you between Hertford and Reading from £39. 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 Duration
2h 12m
Cheapest Price
£46
Greater Anglia frequency
6 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
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 Duration
2h 19m
Cheapest Price
£46
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
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 Duration
1h 58m
Cheapest Price
£39
Great Northern frequency
3 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
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: Hertford to Reading train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Hertford 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 Hertford to Reading can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £39, while the average price tends to be around £43.
The train journey from Hertford to Reading covers a distance of 72 km and takes approximately 1h 58m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Hertford to Reading is 72 km.
The first train from Hertford to Reading leaves at 1:15.
The last train from Hertford to Reading departs at 23:36.
Trains from Hertford to Reading run approximately 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Hertford to Reading.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Hertford to Reading.
To get from Hertford to Reading, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Hertford to Reading.
The train station in Hertford that goes to Reading is Hertford North (HFN), and it arrives at Reading station (RDG).
The cheapest way to get from Hertford to Reading is by coach, costing approximately £39.
Booking trains from Hertford 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 Hertford to Reading offers a mix of urban and countryside views, passing through parts of the scenic Chiltern Hills, making it reasonably picturesque.
To fully explore Reading's attractions, two to three days are ideal.
Yes, you can take the train from Hertford to Reading.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Hertford and Reading
Most Hertford to Reading trains use the Hertford North to Reading station pair. Use this guide to compare Hertford and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Hertford
Arrival train stations in Reading
Which Hertford station do trains to Reading leave from?
Trains from Hertford to Reading leave from Hertford North. The station is 1 km from Hertford city centre at Hertford North station, North Road, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1NB.
Hertford NorthHertford North station, North Road, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1NB
City-centre transport
Getting to Hertford North from Hertford city centre
Bus341, 641 · 3m · £2 · every ~1 min
Hertford North train station facilities and services
Hertford North has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Hertford North.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Hertford North.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Hertford North.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Hertford North: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Hertford North: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Hertford North: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category B3 station: Step free access to booking office and platforms 2&3. Steps to platform 1 (some trains to London). Assistance Meeting Point is the station foyer opposite the ticket office. This station doesn't have tactile surfaces along all platform edges. Please pay attention to where the platform surface changes from smooth to paved or contact us for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Great Northern ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Hertford EastHertford East station, Mill Road, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1SB+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Hertford East from Hertford city centre
Bus390 · 3m · £2 · every ~2 min
Hertford East train station facilities and services
Hertford East has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Hertford East.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Hertford East.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Hertford East.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Hertford East: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Hertford East: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Hertford East: 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: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Reading station do trains from Hertford arrive at?
Trains from Hertford 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.
More options for your journey from Hertford to Reading
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Most popular trains to and from Reading and Hertford
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