- Must visit
Reading Museum
Reading’s main museum explores local history, archaeology, and art. Best known for the Victorian copy of the Bayeux Tapestry.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Reading
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 02 Nov
- Cheapest price on 02 Nov
- £49
- Average ticket price on 02 Nov
- £114
- Fastest journey on 02 Nov
- 3 h 22 m
- Average journey duration on 02 Nov
- 3 h 23 m
- Trains on 02 Nov
- 21
- Distance
- 283 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Reading will cost around £114 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £49.
Fast trains
To travel from Preston to Reading you need to make at least 2 changes.
W34271+
G011788:17 3h48 Preston station (PRE) 12:05 Reading station (RDG) £49 1 One-way 1 change- W34265+G01180
9:19 3h47 Preston station (PRE) 13:06 Reading station (RDG) £49 1 One-way 1 change - W33933+G01184
11:18 3h48 Preston station (PRE) 15:06 Reading station (RDG) £79 1 One-way 1 change - G01013+
G898339:21 4h20 Preston station (PRE) 13:41 Reading station (RDG) £79 1 One-way 1 change 
C00578+
W34634+
Tube from London Euston to London Paddington12:05 4h06 Preston station (PRE) 16:11 Reading station (RDG) £92 1 One-way 2 changes
- W34029+W34686+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington
8:01 3h22 Preston station (PRE) 11:23 Reading station (RDG) £258 1 One-way 2 changes - W34181+G14959+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington
9:00 3h23 Preston station (PRE) 12:23 Reading station (RDG) £258 1 One-way 2 changes - W34039+G14963+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington
11:00 3h23 Preston station (PRE) 14:23 Reading station (RDG) £112 1 One-way 2 changes - W33973+W34712+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington
13:00 3h23 Preston station (PRE) 16:23 Reading station (RDG) £112 1 One-way 2 changes - W34172+W34719+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington
14:00 3h23 Preston station (PRE) 17:23 Reading station (RDG) £112 1 One-way 2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Reading run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £32 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 02:24, the last at 21:18. The fastest train covers the 283 km distance in 2h 48m.
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 283 km |
Average train duration 3h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price £32 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 2h 48m |
First train 2:24 |
Last train 21:18 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Preston to Reading trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Preston to Reading.
The cost of a train ticket from Preston to Reading can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £32, while the average price tends to be around £81.
The train journey from Preston to Reading covers a distance of 283 km and takes approximately 2h 48m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Preston to Reading is 283 km.
The first train from Preston to Reading leaves at 2:24.
The last train from Preston to Reading departs at 21:18.
Trains from Preston to Reading run approximately 5 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Reading.
Live departures
Preston to Reading train times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Reading trains for today, Sunday 1 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:18 Preston | 3h43 | 15:01 Reading | 1 change | |
| 12:03 Preston | 4h07 | 16:10 Reading | 2 changes | |
| 12:18 Preston | 4h22 | 16:40 Reading | 1 change | |
| 13:18 Preston | 3h43 | 17:01 Reading | 1 change | |
| 14:00 Preston | 3h40 | 17:40 Reading | 2 changes | |
| 14:18 Preston | 4h21 | 18:39 Reading | 1 change | |
| 15:00 Preston | 4h10 | 19:10 Reading | 2 changes | |
| 15:18 Preston | 4h21 | 19:39 Reading | 1 change | |
| 16:00 Preston | 4h10 | 20:10 Reading | 2 changes | |
| 16:18 Preston | 4h22 | 20:40 Reading | 1 change | |
| 17:02 Preston | 4h08 | 21:10 Reading | 2 changes | |
| 17:18 Preston | 4h21 | 21:39 Reading | 1 change | |
| 18:00 Preston | 4h10 | 22:10 Reading | 2 changes | |
| 18:17 Preston | 4h22 | 22:39 Reading | 1 change | |
| 20:59 Preston | 10h11 | 7:10 Reading | 2 changes | |
| 20:59 Preston | 11h49 | 8:48 Reading | 1 change | |
| 21:18 Preston | 10h26 | 7:44 Reading | 1 change | |
| Monday 2 November | |||||
| W34029+W34686+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington | 8:01 Preston station (PRE) | 3h22 | 11:23 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
| W34271+G01178 | 8:17 Preston station (PRE) | 3h48 | 12:05 Reading station (RDG) | 1 change | |
| G01009+G89828 | 8:20 Preston station (PRE) | 4h17 | 12:37 Reading station (RDG) | 1 change | |
| W34181+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+G14959 | 9:00 Preston station (PRE) | 3h23 | 12:23 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
| W34265+G01180 | 9:19 Preston station (PRE) | 3h47 | 13:06 Reading station (RDG) | 1 change | |
| G01013+G89833 | 9:21 Preston station (PRE) | 4h20 | 13:41 Reading station (RDG) | 1 change | |
| C00579+W34624+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington | 9:28 Preston station (PRE) | 3h43 | 13:11 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
| W34028+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+G14961 | 10:00 Preston station (PRE) | 3h24 | 13:24 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
| W33903 · W34182+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+W35418 | 10:18 Preston station (PRE) | 3h53 | 14:11 Reading station (RDG) | 3 changes | |
| G01018+G89839 | 10:20 Preston station (PRE) | 4h22 | 14:42 Reading station (RDG) | 1 change | |
| W34039+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+G14963 | 11:00 Preston station (PRE) | 3h23 | 14:23 Reading station (RDG) | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Preston to Reading trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as CrossCountry offer trains services from Preston to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Reading.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Preston 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Reading.
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry from Preston to Reading trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry trains will get you between Preston and Reading from £32. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 48m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£38
Avanti West Coast frequency
3 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
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
3h 23m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£32
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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Preston and Reading
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Preston to Reading.
There is no night train service from Preston to Reading.
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.
Plan your visit to Reading
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Reading.
The train journey from Preston to Reading offers diverse scenery, passing through picturesque countryside, charming villages, and views of the Pennines, providing a pleasant travel experience.
FAQs: Preston to Reading train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston 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.
Booking trains from Preston to Reading in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Reading.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Preston and Reading
Most Preston to Reading trains use the Preston to Reading station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Preston
Arrival train stations in Reading
Which Preston station do trains to Reading leave from?
Trains from Preston to Reading leave from Preston. The station is 1 km from Preston city centre at Fishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom.
PrestonFishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston from Preston city centre
Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3, 2, 2A, 111, 111C · 13m · £8 · every ~36 min
Preston train station facilities and services
Preston has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.
Which Reading station do trains from Preston arrive at?
Trains from Preston 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.
Train stations for Preston to Reading
Check train stations information for Preston and Reading, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Preston that goes to Reading is Preston, and it arrives at Reading.
Most popular train connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Preston
Most popular train connections to Reading
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
