- Recommended
Deva Roman Experience
Interactive museum exploring Roman Chester with artefacts, reconstructions and family-friendly displays that bring Deva’s military past to life.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Chester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 05 Oct
Cheapest price on 05 Oct
£0.00
Average ticket price on 05 Oct
£172
Fastest journey on 05 Oct
3 h 24 m
Average journey duration on 05 Oct
3 h 25 m
Trains on 05 Oct
29
Distance
233 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Chester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
Fast trains
To travel from Reading to Chester you need to make at least 2 changes.
16:153h33Reading19:48ChesterFind prices2 changes- 20:153h34Reading23:49ChesterFind prices3 changes
- 20:153h34Reading23:49ChesterFind prices2 changes
- 21:1510h04Reading7:19ChesterFind prices3 changes
- 6:153h25Reading9:40Chester£1871One-way2 changes
- 14:163h24Reading17:40Chester£1871One-way2 changes
- 6:153h25Reading9:40Chester£1871One-way2 changes
- 8:153h25Reading11:40Chester£1871One-way2 changes
- 9:153h25Reading12:40Chester£1871One-way2 changes
- 10:153h25Reading13:40Chester£1871One-way2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Chester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Chester run on average 15 times per day, taking around 2h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £55 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 03:39, the last at 21:34. The fastest train covers the 233 km distance in 2h 40m.
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 233 km |
Average train duration 2h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price £55 |
Trains per day 15 |
Fastest train 2h 40m |
First train 3:39 |
Last train 21:34 |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 42 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
Reading to Chester train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Chester 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:15 Reading | 3h25 | 9:40 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 6:15 Reading | 3h51 | 10:06 Chester | 1 change | |
| 7:15 Reading | 3h58 | 11:13 Chester | 1 change | |
| 8:15 Reading | 3h25 | 11:40 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 8:15 Reading | 3h52 | 12:07 Chester | 1 change | |
| 9:15 Reading | 3h25 | 12:40 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 9:15 Reading | 3h51 | 13:06 Chester | 1 change | |
| 10:15 Reading | 3h25 | 13:40 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 10:15 Reading | 3h52 | 14:07 Chester | 1 change | |
| 11:15 Reading | 3h25 | 14:40 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 11:15 Reading | 3h51 | 15:06 Chester | 1 change | |
| 12:15 Reading | 3h26 | 15:41 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 12:15 Reading | 3h52 | 16:07 Chester | 1 change | |
| 13:15 Reading | 3h25 | 16:40 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 13:15 Reading | 3h50 | 17:05 Chester | 1 change | |
| 14:16 Reading | 3h24 | 17:40 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 14:16 Reading | 3h50 | 18:06 Chester | 1 change | |
| 15:14 Reading | 3h28 | 18:42 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 15:14 Reading | 3h51 | 19:05 Chester | 1 change | |
| 16:15 Reading | 3h33 | 19:48 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 16:15 Reading | 3h51 | 20:06 Chester | 1 change | |
| 17:15 Reading | 3h25 | 20:40 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 17:15 Reading | 3h52 | 21:07 Chester | 1 change | |
| 18:15 Reading | 3h25 | 21:40 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 18:15 Reading | 3h53 | 22:08 Chester | 1 change | |
| 20:15 Reading | 3h34 | 23:49 Chester | 3 changes | |
| 20:15 Reading | 3h34 | 23:49 Chester | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Reading to Chester trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast or Transport for Wales offer trains services from Reading to Chester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Chester.
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 Avanti West Coast or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Chester.
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Chester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Chester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Chester.
Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales from Reading to Chester trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Reading and Chester from £55. 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 CrossCountry Duration
2h 41m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£55
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
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 40m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£97
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
Transport for Wales
About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
3h 33m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£103
Transport for Wales frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking 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 allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Chester
Things to do in Chester
Discover the best of Chester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chester trip today.
- Recommended
Cheshire Military Museum
Museum in a former mill on the River Dee, covering Chester’s social history, period rooms and local stories from Roman times onward.
- Recommended
Dewa Roman Experience
Museum inside Chester Castle tracing regional regiments through uniforms, medals and campaigns in a compact but informative setting.
- Must visit
Chester Rows
Chester’s two-level covered walkways lined with historic shopfronts, ideal for browsing architecture and experiencing the city’s character.
- Recommended
The Groves
Pleasant riverside promenade beside the Dee, popular for walks, boat views and access to bridges, green spaces and the old city centre.
- Recommended
Grosvenor Park
Victorian park near the river with broad lawns, mature trees, bandstand and a peaceful setting for a break from the busy city centre.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cheshire Cheese
A crumbly local cheese from Cheshire, often served on bread or in recipes. It is one of England’s oldest recorded cheeses and closely tied to the county.
- Vegetarian
Cheshire Fruit Loaf
A traditional fruit loaf linked with nearby Cheshire and the North West, made with dried fruit and spice, often sliced and buttered for tea.
Steak And Kidney Pudding
A historic English pudding of suet pastry filled with meat and onion. It is a hearty regional comfort dish long found in Cheshire pubs and homes.
Upstairs At The Grill
Elegant restaurant focused on modern British cooking and tasting menus. A refined choice for a special meal in central Chester.
Jaunty Goat Coffee
Long-established local favourite for hearty breakfasts, lunches and baked goods. Relaxed café atmosphere in the centre of Chester.
Opera Grill
Well-known riverside and city-centre restaurant serving modern British food with steaks, grills and cocktails in a stylish but relaxed setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are cheaper than London, but tourist areas can feel pricey. Buses are reasonable, while central stays cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or tip about 10%. Cafés and pubs: tipping is optional, though small change is appreciated for table service.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- /u00a32.00
- Day pass
- £2.50
To the city centre
Chester Railway Station -> Chester Bus Interchange, Chester
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Park & Ride tickets can be bought from the driver with cash or contactless card, and are also available in the Stagecoach Bus app.
- Chester station has a RailLink bus from directly outside the station to the city centre. Park & Ride buses serve Chester Bus Interchange and Foregate Street.
FAQs: Reading to Chester train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Chester 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 Chester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Reading to Chester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £55, while the average price tends to be around £118.
The train journey from Reading to Chester covers a distance of 233 km and takes approximately 2h 40m. Trains run 15 per day.
The train distance from Reading to Chester is 233 km.
The first train from Reading to Chester leaves at 3:39.
The last train from Reading to Chester departs at 21:34.
Trains from Reading to Chester run approximately 15 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Reading to Chester.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Chester.
There is no night train service from Reading to Chester.
The train station in Reading that goes to Chester is Reading station (RDG), and it arrives at Chester station (CTR).
Booking trains from Reading to Chester 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 Chester offers varied scenery, with views of the English countryside, rolling hills, and charming towns along the route, though it is not typically considered one of the most scenic routes in the UK.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Chester.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Reading and Chester
Most Reading to Chester trains use the Reading to Chester station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Chester 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 Chester
Which Reading station do trains to Chester leave from?
Trains from Reading to Chester 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.
Which Chester station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Chester arrive at Chester. Chester is 1 km from Chester city centre.
ChesterChester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chester from Chester city centre
Chester is 1 km from Chester city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus100, 16 · 4m · £4 · every ~2 min
Chester train station facilities and services
Chester has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Chester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, 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 Chester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chester: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access is available to all platforms via lifts, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, 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: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Chester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chester and Reading
Most popular train connections to Chester
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