- 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 Portsmouth to Reading
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 05 Oct
Cheapest price on 05 Oct
£43
Average ticket price on 05 Oct
£43
Fastest journey on 05 Oct
1 h 40 m
Average journey duration on 05 Oct
1 h 43 m
Trains on 05 Oct
6
Distance
74 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Portsmouth to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Portsmouth to Reading will cost around £43 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £43.
Fast trains
To travel from Portsmouth to Reading you need to make at least one change.
G15005+
G008588:271h43Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)10:10Reading station (RDG)£431One-way1 change
L84472+G008557:291h40Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)9:09Reading station (RDG)£431One-way1 change- L79919+G008516:281h41Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)8:09Reading station (RDG)£431One-way1 change
- L79922+G007396:551h50Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)8:45Reading station (RDG)£431One-way1 change
- L79572+G151278:212h08Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)10:29Reading station (RDG)£431One-way1 change
- L84472+G008557:291h40Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)9:09Reading station (RDG)£431One-way1 change
- L79919+G008516:281h41Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)8:09Reading station (RDG)£431One-way1 change
- G15005+G008588:271h43Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)10:10Reading station (RDG)£431One-way1 change
- L79928+C030418:001h43Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)9:43Reading West (RDW)£431One-way1 change
- L79922+G007396:551h50Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)8:45Reading station (RDG)£431One-way1 change
Journey information
Overview: Train from Portsmouth to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Portsmouth to Reading run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £33 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 03:07, the last at 23:24. The fastest train covers the 74 km distance in 1h 32m.
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 74 km |
Average train duration 1h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price £33 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 1h 32m |
First train 3:07 |
Last train 23:24 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Best time to book 3 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
Portsmouth to Reading train times
The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Reading trains for tomorrow, Monday 5 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L79919+G00851 | 6:28 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 1h41 | 8:09 Reading station (RDG) | 1 change | |
| L79922+G00739 | 6:55 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 1h50 | 8:45 Reading station (RDG) | 1 change | |
| L84472+G00855 | 7:29 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 1h40 | 9:09 Reading station (RDG) | 1 change | |
| L79928+C03041 | 8:00 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 1h43 | 9:43 Reading West (RDW) | 1 change | |
| L79572+G15127 | 8:21 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 2h08 | 10:29 Reading station (RDG) | 1 change | |
| G15005+G00858 | 8:27 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 1h43 | 10:10 Reading station (RDG) | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Portsmouth to Reading trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as South Western Railway or Great Western Railway offer trains services from Portsmouth to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Portsmouth 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 South Western Railway or Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Portsmouth to Reading.
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- 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 Portsmouth to Reading.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway or Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Portsmouth to Reading.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Portsmouth to Reading.
Train companies: South Western Railway, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway from Portsmouth to Reading trainsSouth Western Railway, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway trains will get you between Portsmouth and Reading from £33. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
South Western Railway
About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average South Western Railway Duration
1h 33m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£37
South Western Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
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
1h 32m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£33
CrossCountry frequency
2 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
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 Great Western Railway Duration
1h 36m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£42
Great Western Railway frequency
2 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
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: Portsmouth to Reading train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth to Reading can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £33, while the average price tends to be around £41.
The train journey from Portsmouth to Reading covers a distance of 74 km and takes approximately 1h 32m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Portsmouth to Reading is 74 km.
The first train from Portsmouth to Reading leaves at 3:07.
The last train from Portsmouth to Reading departs at 23:24.
Trains from Portsmouth to Reading run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Portsmouth to Reading.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Portsmouth to Reading.
There is no night train service from Portsmouth to Reading.
The train station in Portsmouth that goes to Reading is Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS), and it arrives at Reading station (RDG).
Booking trains from Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth to Reading offers a mix of urban and countryside views, with stretches through the picturesque South Downs and glimpses of the River Thames, making it partially scenic.
Yes, you can take the train from Portsmouth to Reading.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Portsmouth and Reading
Most Portsmouth to Reading trains use the Portsmouth & Southsea to Reading station pair, with some services arriving at Reading West. Use this guide to compare Portsmouth and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Portsmouth
Arrival train stations in Reading
Which Portsmouth station do trains to Reading leave from?
Trains from Portsmouth to Reading leave from Portsmouth & Southsea. The station is from Portsmouth city centre at Portsmouth & Southsea station, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 1EQ.
Portsmouth & SouthseaPortsmouth & Southsea station, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 1EQ
City-centre transport
Getting to Portsmouth & Southsea from Portsmouth city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesStation Street bus stop at side of Railway Station near Matalan car park.
Portsmouth & Southsea train station facilities and services
Portsmouth & Southsea has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth & Southsea. ATMs are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category A Station - This station has step-free access to all platforms. Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
FrattonFratton station, Selbourne Terrace, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 5AW
City-centre transport
Getting to Fratton from Portsmouth city centre
Fratton is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPortsmouth Harbour - London Waterloo, Portsmouth Harbour - Eastleigh, Portsmouth Harbour - Southampton Central, Portsmouth & Southsea - Southampton Central, Portsmouth Harbour - Woking, Portsmouth & Southsea - London Waterloo, Portsmouth Harbour - Guildford, Portsmouth Harbour - Winchester, Portsmouth Harbour - Basingstoke, Portsmouth & Southsea - Woking, Portsmouth Harbour - Woolston, Portsmouth & Southsea - Woolston, Portsmouth Harbour - Petersfield, Portsmouth Harbour - Fareham · 3m · £0.90 · every ~10 min
Bus1 · 4m · every ~30 min
13 · 6m · £2 · every ~6 min
Fratton train station facilities and services
Fratton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Fratton.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Fratton.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Fratton. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0800 5282100.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Fratton: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Fratton: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Fratton: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category A Station - This station has step-free access to all platforms, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Portsmouth HarbourPortsmouth Harbour station, The Hard Interchange, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 3PA
City-centre transport
Getting to Portsmouth Harbour from Portsmouth city centre
Portsmouth Harbour is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Victoria - Portsmouth Harbour, Brighton - Portsmouth Harbour, Littlehampton - Portsmouth Harbour, Three Bridges - Portsmouth Harbour, Barnham - Portsmouth Harbour, Gatwick Airport - Portsmouth Harbour, Havant - Portsmouth Harbour, Bognor Regis - Portsmouth Harbour · 3m · £0.90 · every ~4 min
Bus1, 2, 8, 3, 7, X4, H1, X5, Pr1 · 6m · £2 · every ~214 min
Portsmouth Harbour train station facilities and services
Portsmouth Harbour has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Portsmouth Harbour.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth Harbour. ATMs are available at Portsmouth Harbour.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth Harbour.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Portsmouth Harbour: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Portsmouth Harbour: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth Harbour: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - Steps or 20m ramp (approx. 1:11 gradient) to main entrance, or steps to side entrance. 32m ramp (gradient up to 1:8) from Wightlink IoW ferry terminal. Level access to all platforms. Stepped footbridge between platforms is also available. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, 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 Portsmouth arrive at?
Trains from Portsmouth 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 · £0.90 · 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.
Most popular train connections from Portsmouth
More options for your journey from Portsmouth to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Portsmouth
Most popular train connections to Reading
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