- Must visit
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
Town-centre museum with local history, archaeology and changing exhibitions in a Victorian villa beside Bournemouth's gardens.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Bournemouth
Showing times and prices for 25 Aug
Cheapest price
£18
Average price
£20
Fastest journey
1 h 19 m
Average duration
1 h 20 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
104 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Bournemouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Bournemouth will cost around £20 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £18.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Reading for Bournemouth every day 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 104 km distance in an average of 1 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 19 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 20 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.
8:541h19Reading10:13Bournemouth£181One-way0 changes- 10:521h20Reading12:12Bournemouth£201One-way0 changes
- 9:521h20Reading11:12Bournemouth£211One-way0 changes
- 12:521h20Reading14:12Bournemouth£211One-way0 changes
- 8:541h19Reading10:13Bournemouth£181One-way0 changes
- 10:521h20Reading12:12Bournemouth£201One-way0 changes
- 12:521h20Reading14:12Bournemouth£211One-way0 changes
- 9:521h20Reading11:12Bournemouth£211One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Reading to Bournemouth
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Bournemouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 32m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £9, and a coach costs an average of £45.
Distance: 104 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£21 Average Price Cheapest | £59 Average Price |
2h 2m Average total duration Fastest 1h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 33m Average total duration 2h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Reading to Bournemouth train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Bournemouth trains for today, Monday 24 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G01003 | Delayed 10:06 10:52Reading station (RDG) | 1h23 | 11:21 11:21Bournemouth station (BMH) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Tuesday 25 August | |||||
| 8:54 Reading | 1h19 | 10:13 Bournemouth | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Reading to Bournemouth 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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25 Aug
25 Aug
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26 Aug
26 Aug
Thu
27 Aug
27 Aug
Fri
28 Aug
28 Aug
Sat
29 Aug
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31 Aug
31 Aug
Why should you book Reading to Bournemouth trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as South Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more offer trains services from Reading to Bournemouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Bournemouth.
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, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Bournemouth.
- 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Bournemouth.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Bournemouth.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Bournemouth.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Bournemouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Bournemouth run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £9 if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:09, the last at 23:38. The fastest train covers the 104 km distance in 1h 21m.
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 104 km |
Average train duration 1h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price £9 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 1h 21m |
First train 5:09 |
Last train 23:38 |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
Train companies: CrossCountry, South Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Reading to Bournemouth trainsCrossCountry, South Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Reading and Bournemouth from £9. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Duration
1h 21m
Cheapest Price
£9
CrossCountry frequency
4 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
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 Duration
1h 46m
Cheapest Price
£16
South Western Railway frequency
4 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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 19m
Cheapest Price
£76
Cross Country frequency
11 a day
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 34m
Cheapest Price
£73
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
14 a day
Complete guide to Bournemouth
Things to do in Bournemouth
Discover the best of Bournemouth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bournemouth trip today.
- Recommended
Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre
Small local museum on Hengistbury Head covering archaeology, wildlife and the headland's long human history in a scenic coastal setting.
The Gallery at The Library
Free gallery inside Bournemouth Library showing contemporary art exhibitions, talks and touring displays in a central location.
- Must visit
Bournemouth Beach
Historic pier and broad sandy beach at the town's heart, ideal for classic seaside walks, swimming and views along the bay.
- Must visit
Lower Gardens
Landscaped Victorian gardens running through the centre, popular for gentle walks, seasonal events and a green route to the seafront.
- Must visit
Hengistbury Head
Headland nature reserve with walking trails, harbour views, heathland and archaeology, popular for longer coastal walks and birdwatching.
- Gluten-free
Dorset Crab
Fresh crab landed on the Dorset coast, prized for sweet meat and often served simply dressed to showcase local seafood traditions.
- Gluten-free
Lyme Bay Scallops
Hand-dived scallops from nearby Lyme Bay, a South Coast speciality valued for freshness and the region’s strong shellfish heritage.
- Gluten-free
Dorset Blue Vinny
Traditional Dorset Blue Vinny cheese with a firm, crumbly texture and robust flavour, long associated with Dorset farming and cheesemaking.
The Dining Room at The Nici
Refined dining room in a historic hotel, serving modern British cooking in an elegant setting overlooking the gardens.
WestBeach
Established seafood spot on West Cliff, popular for fish dishes, sea views and a smart but approachable atmosphere.
The Lych Gate Tavern
Traditional pub near the town centre serving local ales and classic British meals in a historic, characterful setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside resort. Hotels rise in summer, but dining and local buses are usually cheaper than in London or Bath.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is typical if service is not included. Round up for taxis, and small change is fine in cafés.
Morebus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £5.20
To the city centre
Bournemouth Railway Station -> Bournemouth Town Centre (The Square)
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
Best option: Morebus service to Bournemouth Town Centre
- Price
- £3.00
- Duration
- 10 min
- Use the Morebus app or tap on with the same contactless card to get Zone A Dayrider pricing. Paper Dayrider tickets cost more.
- Bournemouth’s main urban buses are operated by Morebus. Bournemouth Railway Station is about a 10-minute walk or short bus ride from The Square.
FAQs: Reading to Bournemouth train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Reading to Bournemouth can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £9, while the average price tends to be around £21.
The train journey from Reading to Bournemouth covers a distance of 104 km and takes approximately 1h 21m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Reading to Bournemouth is 104 km.
The first train from Reading to Bournemouth leaves at 5:09.
The last train from Reading to Bournemouth departs at 23:38.
Trains from Reading to Bournemouth run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Reading to Bournemouth.
Yes, there is a direct train between Reading and Bournemouth. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
To get from Reading to Bournemouth, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Reading to Bournemouth.
The train station in Reading that goes to Bournemouth is Reading station (RDG), and it arrives at Bournemouth station (BMH).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Bournemouth is by train, costing approximately £9.
Booking trains from Reading to Bournemouth in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Reading to Bournemouth offers a mix of urban and countryside views. Passengers can enjoy glimpses of the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes characteristic of the English countryside as the train travels through Hampshire and Dorset.
Yes, a day trip from Reading to Bournemouth is feasible. The journey takes 1h 21m, covering a distance of 104 km, with trains running 7 times per day.
In Bournemouth, you can explore the Oceanarium, which showcases marine life from around the world, and enjoy the Lower Gardens with its floral displays and seasonal events. Visit Boscombe Chine Gardens for a mini-golf course and water play area, or head to Hengistbury Head for hiking and birdwatching. Discover the Bournemouth Aviation Museum's interactive exhibits on aviation history. Relax at Bournemouth Beach, known for its sandy stretch and water activities, and stroll along the Victorian Bournemouth Pier for entertainment and dining. Art lovers should visit the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, while St. Peter's Church offers stunning architecture and is the resting place of Mary Shelley. The Bournemouth Gardens provide a perfect setting for leisurely walks and picnics.
A 2 to 3-day visit to Bournemouth is generally sufficient to explore its main attractions, including its beaches, parks, and cultural sites.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Bournemouth.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Reading and Bournemouth
Most Reading to Bournemouth trains use the Reading to Bournemouth station pair, with some services arriving at Pokesdown. Use this guide to compare Reading and Bournemouth train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Reading
Arrival train stations in Bournemouth
Which Reading station do trains to Bournemouth leave from?
Trains from Reading to Bournemouth leave from Reading. The station is from Reading city centre at Reading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ.
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.
TilehurstTilehurst station, Oxford Road, Tilehurst, Berkshire, RG31 6TH+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Tilehurst from Reading city centre
Tilehurst is 4 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Paddington - Didcot Parkway, Reading - Didcot Parkway · 3m · £2 · every ~4 min
Bus16, 85, 88, 18, 93, 43 · 16m · £2 · every ~18 min
16, 85, 88, 18, 93, 43 · 19m · £2 · every ~18 min
Tilehurst train station facilities and services
Tilehurst has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Tilehurst.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Tilehurst.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Tilehurst.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Tilehurst: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Tilehurst: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Tilehurst: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step free Category C - This station does not have step free access to operational platforms, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible Taxis available at this station Please call our free help line for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: No, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Bournemouth station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Bournemouth most often arrive at Bournemouth. Some services arrive at Pokesdown, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Bournemouth arrival station.
BournemouthBournemouth station, Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 8HX+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Bournemouth from Bournemouth city centre
Bournemouth is 1 km from Bournemouth city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus13, 5, 6, 50, m1, 12, 13A, N5, N1, 11, 21 · 6m · £2 · every ~74 min
m1, 5, 6, 50, 13, 12, 13A, 21, 11, N5, N1 · 7m · £2 · every ~74 min
Bournemouth train station facilities and services
Bournemouth has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bournemouth.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bournemouth.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bournemouth.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bournemouth: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bournemouth: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bournemouth: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B2 station. Level access to both sides of station from separate entrances. Long and steep ramped subway between platforms - up to 1:8 gradient 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.
PokesdownPokesdown station, Christchurch Road, Pokesdown, Dorset, BH7 6DL
City-centre transport
Getting to Pokesdown from Bournemouth city centre
Pokesdown is 4 km from Bournemouth city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPoole - London Waterloo, Poole - Eastleigh, Weymouth - London Waterloo, Weymouth - Southampton Central, Bournemouth - Basingstoke, Bournemouth - London Waterloo, Poole - Brockenhurst, Bournemouth - Winchester, Poole - Winchester, Weymouth - Woking, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Poole - Southampton Central · 3m · £0.90 · every ~4 min
Busm2, 1A, 1B, 1C, 22, N2 · 17m · £2 · every ~58 min
m2, 1A, 1B, 1C, 22, N2 · 18m · £2 · every ~58 min
Pokesdown train station facilities and services
Pokesdown has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Pokesdown.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Pokesdown.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Pokesdown.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Pokesdown: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Pokesdown: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
More options for your journey from Reading to Bournemouth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bournemouth and Reading
Most popular train connections to Bournemouth
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