- Must visit
Museum of Making
Interactive museum in a restored mill exploring making, industry and design through hands-on galleries and working displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Derby
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£24
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£34
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
2 h 6 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
2 h 10 m
Trains on 18 Sept
2
Distance
167 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Derby is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Derby will cost around £34 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £24.
Fast trains
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 2 trains from Reading to Derby, including 2 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 167 km distance in an average of 2 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 6 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 14 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.
5:452h14Reading7:59Derby£241One-way0 changes- 8:512h06Reading10:57Derby£451One-way0 changes
- 8:512h06Reading10:57Derby£451One-way0 changes
- 5:452h14Reading7:59Derby£241One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Reading to Derby
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Derby among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £35 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 46m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £35, while a coach costs an average of £54.
Distance: 167 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£35 Average Price Cheapest | £54 Average Price | £35 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 46m Average total duration Fastest 2h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 47m Average total duration 6h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 47m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Reading to Derby is a train with an average price of £35.
This is compared to other travel options from Reading to Derby:
A train is £19 less than a coach for this route with tickets for a coach from Reading to Derby costing on average £54.
The fastest way to travel from Reading to Derby is by train with an average journey time of 2h 16m.
Other travel options to Derby take longer:
Coach takes on average 6h 17m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Derby including taking a coach and train.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 31m sooner (2h 16m by train vs 2h 47m by car). Tickets start at around £35 compared to roughly £35 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Cross Country.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Reading to Derby train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Derby trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 W70972+ Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+ W35121 | Delayed 11:02 10:46Reading station (RDG) | 2h42 | 13:28 Derby station (DBY) | 2 changes | |
| G00861 · G66502 | On time 11:15 Reading station (RDG) | 2h39 | 13:54 Derby station (DBY) | 1 change | |
| W70975+G15043+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International | Delayed 11:32 11:20Reading station (RDG) | 2h48 | 14:08 Derby station (DBY) | 2 changes | |
| Friday 18 September | |||||
| 5:45 Reading | 2h14 | 7:59 Derby | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:51 Reading | 2h06 | 10:57 Derby | 0 changesdirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Reading to Derby by coach or train
Compare coach and train 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.
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
23 Sept
Thu
24 Sept
24 Sept
Why should you book Reading to Derby trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as East Midlands Railway or Cross Country offer trains services from Reading to Derby.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Derby.
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 East Midlands Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Derby.
- 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 and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Derby.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of East Midlands Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Derby.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Derby.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Derby
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Derby run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £18 if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:24, the last at 22:20. The fastest train covers the 167 km distance in 2h 13m.
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 167 km |
Average train duration 2h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price £18 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 13m |
First train 2:24 |
Last train 22:20 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 4 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, East Midlands Railway, Cross Country from Reading to Derby trainsCrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Cross Country trains will get you between Reading and Derby from £18. 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 13m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£18
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
East Midlands Railway
About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average East Midlands Railway Duration
3h 56m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
£41
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the 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
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
2h 6m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
£135
Cross Country frequency
16 a day
Complete guide to Derby
Things to do in Derby
Discover the best of Derby — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Derby trip today.
- Must visit
Derby Museum and Art Gallery
City museum and art gallery with collections on local history, archaeology, natural history and paintings by Joseph Wright.
- Recommended
QUAD
Independent contemporary art gallery in Derby’s Cathedral Quarter, showing changing exhibitions by regional and national artists.
- Must visit
Cathedral Quarter
Historic shopping and cultural quarter with independent businesses, heritage buildings and easy access to key city sights.
- Recommended
Derby Market Place
Revitalised city-centre square with water features, seating and event space, ideal for a pause between nearby attractions.
- Recommended
Markeaton Park
Large landscaped park with lakes, open lawns and riverside paths, popular for walks, picnics and seasonal events.
- Vegetarian
Derby Cob
A soft white bread roll unique to Derby, often filled with bacon, cheese or salad. It is a local bakery staple with a name strongly tied to the city.
- Gluten-free
Derbyshire Blue Cheese
A blue veined cow’s milk cheese traditionally made in Derbyshire. It is prized for its rich, mellow flavour and long connection to the county’s cheesemaking.
- Vegetarian
Derbyshire Oatcake
A crumbly, buttery oat biscuit from Derbyshire, traditionally baked on a griddle. It is a historic local bake often served with cheese or butter.
The Dining Room
Elegant modern British dining in a refined setting, known for carefully prepared tasting and seasonal menus in the city centre.
The Brunswick Inn
Well known Derby ale house and eatery serving British pub dishes, cobs and local beers in a characterful historic building.
Zest Restaurant
Smart yet relaxed restaurant serving Italian inspired dishes, steaks and seafood. Popular for polished service and central location.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals remain fairly manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included. If not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is usual for good service. Round up or add £1-2 for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.
Ride
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £5.80
To the city centre
Derby Railway Station -> Derby Bus Station, Derby
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless payment is available across the Derby bus network, and adult fares may be capped for the day on participating services.
- Spectrum is the main multi-operator Derby day ticket, valid from 5am to midnight on most Arriva, trentbarton, Kinchbus, and Notts & Derby buses.
FAQs: Reading to Derby train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Derby 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 Derby, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Reading to Derby can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £18, while the average price tends to be around £35.
The train journey from Reading to Derby covers a distance of 167 km and takes approximately 2h 13m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Reading to Derby is 167 km.
The first train from Reading to Derby leaves at 2:24.
The last train from Reading to Derby departs at 22:20.
Trains from Reading to Derby run approximately 8 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Reading to Derby.
Yes, there is a direct train between Reading and Derby. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Cross Country.
To get from Reading to Derby, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Reading to Derby.
The train station in Reading that goes to Derby is Reading station (RDG), and it arrives at Derby station (DBY).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Derby is by train, costing approximately £18.
Booking trains from Reading to Derby 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 Derby offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Chiltern Hills and stretches of picturesque countryside, although the landscape becomes more industrial as you approach Derby.
A day trip from Reading to Derby is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 13m. There are 5 trains per day covering a distance of 167 km.
For a well-rounded experience in Derby, two to three days are generally sufficient. This allows time to explore key attractions such as the Derby Museum and Art Gallery, the Derby Cathedral, and nearby Peak District for outdoor activities.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Derby.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Reading and Derby
Most Reading to Derby trains use the Reading to Derby station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Derby 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 Derby
Which Reading station do trains to Derby leave from?
Trains from Reading to Derby 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.
Which Derby station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Derby arrive at Derby. Derby is 1 km from Derby city centre.
DerbyDerby station, Railway Terrace, Derby, Derbyshire, DE1 2RU+44 3457125678
City-centre transport
Getting to Derby from Derby city centre
Derby is 1 km from Derby city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus70A · 4m
Sky · 4m · £2 · every ~14 min
U1, Dp1 · 10m · £0.90 · every ~2 min
Derby train station facilities and services
Derby has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Derby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Derby.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Derby.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Derby: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Derby: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Derby: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A step free station. This station has step free access. There are lifts to all platforms. There is a subway to platforms 2,3,4 and 5. Platforms 6 and 7 are accessed by lift only. This station has tactile paving at the edges of all platforms and at the foot and top of stairwells, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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 Derby
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Derby and Reading
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