- Must visit
Ipswich Museum
Ipswich’s main museum with natural history, archaeology and local collections, including Egyptian objects and displays on Suffolk’s past.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Ipswich
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 19 Sept
Cheapest price on 19 Sept
£44
Average ticket price on 19 Sept
£62
Fastest journey on 19 Sept
2 h 8 m
Average journey duration on 19 Sept
2 h 24 m
Trains on 19 Sept
8
Distance
161 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Ipswich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Ipswich will cost around £62 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £44.
Fast trains
To travel from Reading to Ipswich you need to make at least one change.
C37505+
P012165:592h36Reading station (RDG)8:35Ipswich station (IPS)£441One-way1 change- C37581+P012216:592h36Reading station (RDG)9:35Ipswich station (IPS)£441One-way1 change
- C37858+P01209+
C486074:552h40Reading station (RDG)7:35Ipswich station (IPS)£441One-way2 changes - P01205+C486181:155h22Reading station (RDG)6:37Ipswich station (IPS)£441One-way1 change
- P67199+C375446:292h55Reading station (RDG)9:24Ipswich station (IPS)£801One-way1 change
- C38004+P01221+C422847:272h08Reading station (RDG)9:35Ipswich station (IPS)£801One-way2 changes
- P01216+C37933+W348526:202h15Reading station (RDG)8:35Ipswich station (IPS)£801One-way2 changes
- C37973+P67199+W348546:582h26Reading station (RDG)9:24Ipswich station (IPS)£801One-way2 changes
- C37505+P012165:592h36Reading station (RDG)8:35Ipswich station (IPS)£441One-way1 change
- C37581+P012216:592h36Reading station (RDG)9:35Ipswich station (IPS)£441One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train for Reading to Ipswich
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Ipswich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £72 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 29m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £72, while a train costs an average of £72.
Distance: 161 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£72 Average Price Cheapest | £32 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 29m Average total duration Fastest 1h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Reading to Ipswich is a train with an average price of £72.
The fastest way to travel from Reading to Ipswich is by train with an average journey time of 1h 59m.
Yes, you can take a train between Reading and Ipswich.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 30m sooner (1h 59m by train vs 2h 29m by car). Tickets start at around £72 compared to roughly £32 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.
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 Ipswich train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Ipswich trains for tomorrow, Saturday 19 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P01205+C48618 | On time 1:15 Reading station (RDG) | 5h22 | 6:37 Ipswich station (IPS) | 1 change | |
| C37858+P01209+C48607 | 4:55 Reading station (RDG) | 2h40 | 7:35 Ipswich station (IPS) | 2 changes | |
| C37505+P01216 | 5:59 Reading station (RDG) | 2h36 | 8:35 Ipswich station (IPS) | 1 change | |
| C37933+P01216+W34852 | 6:20 Reading station (RDG) | 2h15 | 8:35 Ipswich station (IPS) | 2 changes | |
| C37544+P67199 | 6:29 Reading station (RDG) | 2h55 | 9:24 Ipswich station (IPS) | 1 change | |
| C37973+P67199+W34854 | 6:58 Reading station (RDG) | 2h26 | 9:24 Ipswich station (IPS) | 2 changes | |
| C37581+P01221 | 6:59 Reading station (RDG) | 2h36 | 9:35 Ipswich station (IPS) | 1 change | |
| C38004+P01221+C42284 | 7:27 Reading station (RDG) | 2h08 | 9:35 Ipswich station (IPS) | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Reading to Ipswich by train
Compare 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.
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
Fri
25 Sept
25 Sept
Why should you book Reading to Ipswich trains with Omio?
Greater Anglia as well as Elizabeth line or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Reading to Ipswich.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Ipswich.
Why book with Omio vs Greater Anglia?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greater Anglia, but also compare tickets for the likes of Elizabeth line or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Ipswich.
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Ipswich
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Ipswich run on average 12 times per day, taking around 1h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £69 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 22:44. The fastest train covers the 161 km distance in 1h 43m.
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 161 km |
Average train duration 1h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price £69 |
Trains per day 12 |
Fastest train 1h 43m |
First train 0:05 |
Last train 22:44 |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Train companies: Greater Anglia, Elizabeth line, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Reading to Ipswich trainsGreater Anglia, Elizabeth line, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Reading and Ipswich from £69. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Greater Anglia
About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greater Anglia Duration
2h 37m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
£50
Greater Anglia frequency
9 a day
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class 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 require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone
Elizabeth line
About
Tfl Rail is a railway service operated by Transport for London in the United Kingdom. It operates on the Great Western Main Line and the Heathrow branch of the London Underground. The service runs from Paddington in London to Reading, Maidenhead, Slough, and Heathrow Airport. It also serves the towns of Taplow, Burnham, Twyford, and Hayes & Harlington. All trains are air-conditioned and feature onboard Wi-Fi, power sockets, and digital information screens. Tfl Rail offers a range of ticket types, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and Oyster cards. Oyster cards are the most popular ticket type, allowing passengers to pay for their journey with a single card. The most popular routes for Tfl Rail are Paddington to Reading, Paddington to Maidenhead, and Paddington to Heathrow Airport. These routes offer frequent services and provide passengers with a convenient way to travel between London and the surrounding areas.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Elizabeth line Duration
2h 32m
Cheapest Elizabeth line Price
£50
Elizabeth line frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available through TfL website or customer service
Refund
Full refund available for service cancellations
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
No dedicated dining car. Passengers can bring their own food and drinks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Step-free access at most stations, wheelchair spaces on trains, priority seating
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be leashed. Guide dogs welcome
Quiet zone
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway (GWR) Duration
1h 43m
Cheapest Great Western Railway (GWR) Price
£69
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
25 a day
Complete guide to Ipswich
Things to do in Ipswich
Discover the best of Ipswich — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ipswich trip today.
- Must visit
Christchurch Mansion
Gallery in Christchurch Mansion showing works by Constable and Gainsborough, plus changing exhibitions in a historic setting.
- Recommended
The Hold: Ipswich Waterfront
Museum on the redeveloped docks telling the story of Ipswich’s maritime trade, industry and local life through interactive displays.
- Must visit
Ipswich Waterfront
Lively regenerated marina with quayside walks, historic warehouses and wide views; ideal for a relaxed stroll by the water.
- Must visit
Christchurch Park
Large public park with formal gardens, ponds and open lawns around Christchurch Mansion; a favourite green escape near the centre.
- Recommended
Cornhill
Historic square at the civic heart of Ipswich, framed by notable buildings and often used for markets, events and seasonal displays.
Suffolk Sausage
A hearty Suffolk pork sausage, traditionally seasoned with sage and pepper. It is a long-standing county speciality often served with mash or in a sandwich.
- Gluten-free
Suffolk Ham
Cured ham from Suffolk, usually dry-cured and sliced thin. It reflects the county’s strong pork-curing tradition and is a popular local deli staple.
- Gluten-free
Smoked Herring
Smoked herring from the nearby Suffolk coast, especially linked with Lowestoft. Traditionally eaten for breakfast or in fish dishes with a deep smoky flavour.
Melekzade
Well-known Turkish restaurant with grilled meats, meze and warm service in a lively yet comfortable dining room.
Indian Knight
Established Indian restaurant known for refined curries and attentive service in an elegant setting.
The Last Anchor
Stylish marina restaurant serving modern British food, steaks and seafood in a relaxed waterfront setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate by UK standards. Hotels and dining cost less than London, while buses and casual meals are fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a basic lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included in restaurants; otherwise tip about 10% for good service. Taxi fares can be rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional.
Ipswich Bus App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.30
- Day pass
- £4.40
To the city centre
Ipswich Railway Station -> Ipswich Town Centre
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Ipswich Buses Town fares currently include a £2.30 single and £4.40 day ticket in the town zone. Buy in the official app for mobile tickets.
- Ipswich Railway Station is about a 10–15 minute walk from the town centre. Buses and taxis also leave from the station forecourt.
FAQs: Reading to Ipswich train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Ipswich 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 Ipswich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Reading to Ipswich can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £69, while the average price tends to be around £72.
The train journey from Reading to Ipswich covers a distance of 161 km and takes approximately 1h 43m. Trains run 12 per day.
The train distance from Reading to Ipswich is 161 km.
The first train from Reading to Ipswich leaves at 0:05.
The last train from Reading to Ipswich departs at 22:44.
Trains from Reading to Ipswich run approximately 12 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Reading to Ipswich.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Ipswich.
To travel from Reading to Ipswich, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Reading to Ipswich.
The train station in Reading that goes to Ipswich is Reading station (RDG), and it arrives at Ipswich station (IPS).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Ipswich is by train, costing approximately £69.
Booking trains from Reading to Ipswich 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 Ipswich offers a varied landscape, passing through charming countryside, small towns, and stretches of the scenic River Thames, providing a pleasant view for travellers.
A day trip from Reading to Ipswich is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 43m. However, there are 8 trains per day covering the 161 km.
In Ipswich, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as catching a performance at the New Wolsey Theatre, exploring the scenic walking trails at Orwell Country Park, or learning about local transport history at the Ipswich Transport Museum. Dance enthusiasts can attend performances and workshops at DanceEast, while families might enjoy a visit to Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park. For sightseeing, visit the vibrant Ipswich Waterfront, the historic Christchurch Mansion, or the informative Ipswich Museum. Relax in the picturesque Holywells Park or savour local produce at the Suffolk Food Hall.
For a fulfilling visit to Ipswich, three to four days are typically recommended to explore its historic sites, enjoy the waterfront, and experience the local culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Ipswich.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Reading and Ipswich
Most Reading to Ipswich trains use the Tilehurst to Ipswich station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Ipswich 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 Ipswich
Which Reading station do trains to Ipswich leave from?
Trains from Reading to Ipswich leave from Tilehurst. The station is 4 km from Reading city centre at Tilehurst station, Oxford Road, Tilehurst, Berkshire, RG31 6TH.
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 Ipswich station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Ipswich arrive at Ipswich. Ipswich is 1 km from Ipswich city centre.
IpswichIpswich station, Burrell Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2 8AL+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Ipswich from Ipswich city centre
Ipswich is 1 km from Ipswich city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus13, 12, 23, 3, 119, 3E · 7m · £2 · every ~27 min
12, 3, 13, 15, 119, 3E, 23 · 9m · £2 · every ~35 min
111 · 21m
Ipswich train station facilities and services
Ipswich has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Ipswich.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ipswich. ATMs are available at Ipswich.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ipswich.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ipswich: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ipswich: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ipswich: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, 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 Ipswich
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ipswich and Reading
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