Reading to Leeds train with LNER

Thu, 20 Nov
+ Add return
LNER
CrossCountry
First Hull Trains
Cross Country
Great Western Rail
1,000+ travel companies
LNER
CrossCountry
First Hull Trains
Cross Country
Great Western Rail
1,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Leeds

Showing times and prices for 21 Nov

Cheapest price

£60

Average price

£79

Fastest journey

3 h 27 m

Average duration

3 h 37 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

263 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Leeds is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Reading to Leeds will cost around £79 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £60.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Reading for Leeds every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 263 km distance in an average of 3 h 37 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 27 m .

The slowest trains will take 4 h 5 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.

LNER
02:544h29
Reading
07:23Leeds
£601One-way
0 changes
LNER
08:094h05
Reading
12:14Leeds
£661One-way
0 changes
LNER
10:203h29
Reading
13:49Leeds
£821One-way
0 changes
LNER
06:203h27
Reading
09:47Leeds
£901One-way
0 changes
LNER
08:473h27
Reading
12:14Leeds
£961One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Reading to Leeds

Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Reading to Leeds among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £44. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 12m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £44, and a train costs an average of £49.

Distance: 263 km

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Coach

£95

Average Price

£58

Average Price

Cheapest

3h 42m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 12m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 23m

Average total duration

6h 53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

LNER

Most popular train company

Megabus

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 Leeds train times

The table below shows live departures for Reading to Leeds trains for today, Thursday 20 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 04:10
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
cross_countryC23368 · C23650
On time
06:15 Reading station (RDG)
3h46
10:01 Leeds station (LDS)
1 change
cross_countryC23204 · C23652
On time
06:45 Reading station (RDG)
4h17
11:02 Leeds station (LDS)
1 change
cross_countryC23204+northern_railY02199
On time
06:45 Reading station (RDG)
3h59
10:44 Leeds station (LDS)
1 change
cross_countryC23372 · C23652
On time
07:15 Reading station (RDG)
3h47
11:02 Leeds station (LDS)
1 change
cross_countryC23376 · C23655
On time
08:15 Reading station (RDG)
3h46
12:01 Leeds station (LDS)
1 change
great_westernP08564+assertis_tubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+london_north_eastern_railwayY23195
On time
08:18 Reading station (RDG)
3h27
11:45 Leeds station (LDS)
2 changes
great_westernP08172+assertis_tubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+london_north_eastern_railwayY23197
On time
08:41 Reading station (RDG)
3h35
12:16 Leeds station (LDS)
2 changes
cross_countryC23380 · C23658
On time
09:15 Reading station (RDG)
3h46
13:01 Leeds station (LDS)
1 change
great_westernP08476+assertis_tubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+london_north_eastern_railwayY23200
On time
09:20 Reading station (RDG)
3h27
12:47 Leeds station (LDS)
2 changes
great_westernP08477+assertis_tubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+london_north_eastern_railwayP00091
On time
09:47 Reading station (RDG)
3h27
13:14 Leeds station (LDS)
2 changes
london_north_eastern_railway02:54 Reading
4h29
07:23 Leeds0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Reading to Leeds 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.

Fri
21 Nov
Sat
22 Nov
Sun
23 Nov
Mon
24 Nov
Tue
25 Nov
Wed
26 Nov
Thu
27 Nov

Journey information

Overview: Train from Reading to Leeds

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Reading to Leeds run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £49 but you can travel from only £44 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 02:10, the last at 22:14. The fastest train covers the 263 km distance in 3h 25m.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £44
Distance
263 km
Average train duration
3h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
£49
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 25m
First train
02:10
Last train
22:14
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £44

Train companies: LNER, CrossCountry, First Hull Trains, Cross Country from Reading to Leeds trainsLNER, CrossCountry, First Hull Trains, Cross Country trains will get you between Reading and Leeds from £44. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

LNER

About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 25m
Cheapest Price
£59
LNER frequency
4 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
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
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 Duration
3h 46m
Cheapest Price
£58
CrossCountry frequency
3 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

First Hull Trains

About
Hull Trains is a British train operator that provides services between Hull and London. It operates up to five trains per day, with two direct services and three services that require a change at Brough. The trains are modern and comfortable, with two types available: the Super Express and the Express. The Super Express offers a faster journey time and more spacious seating, while the Express is a more economical option. Hull Trains offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. The most popular routes are Hull to London Kings Cross and Hull to Brough. Passengers can also take advantage of the Hull Trains Plus loyalty scheme, which offers discounts and rewards.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 58m
Cheapest Price
£96
First Hull Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Can be added during booking
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available. Staff assistance for boarding/alighting
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket
Quiet zone

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 48m
Cheapest Price
£188
Cross Country frequency
4 a day

Trains from Reading to Leeds

It's easy to go from Reading to Leeds by train. Those heading to Leeds for business or pleasure can choose from around 29 trains servicing the Reading-Leeds route every day. The average journey is around 4 hours 40 minutes. Trains leave the Reading Station for Leeds every hour, so travellers don't need to worry about long waiting times.

Reading to Leeds train times: Daily departures

On regular days, passengers can expect between 25 and 29 trains from Reading to Leeds. Services may be limited on weekends and holidays. The first train from Reading to Leeds departs around 6:00 a.m., and the last after 9:00 p.m. Train operators don't offer sleeper services on this route.

How long is the journey by train from Reading to Leeds?

The distance by train from Reading to Leeds is approximately 163 miles. The fastest train gets passengers to Leeds in 3 hours 35 minutes, although the average journey is a little above 4 hours. There are no direct trips available. Passengers typically change trains at the London, Birmingham, or York stations, depending on the operator. Journey times may be longer on weekends and public holidays.

What are the departure and arrival stations for trains from Reading to Leeds?

Departure train station: Trains from Reading and Leeds depart from Reading station, which is on the northern edge of the town centre. Passengers can access it by bus, with stops nearby on Blagrave Street and Garrard Street. Passenger facilities include waiting rooms, ATMs, payphones, post boxes, baby-changing rooms, toilets, shops, bicycle stands, and car parking.

Arrival train station: The arrival station is Leeds railway station. It's on the southern side of central Leeds and connected to the airport and city by bus and taxi services. Nearby attractions include the famous Queen's Hotel, Leeds Gallery, and Trinity Leeds Mall. Station facilities for passengers include an information desk, public WiFi, toilets, ATMs, bicycle stands, car parking, shops, and a first-class lounge.

Which train companies travel from Reading to Leeds?

CrossCountry offers indirect trips for passengers travelling from Reading to Leeds, with one change at Birmingham. London Northeastern Railway (LNER) also operates indirect trains from Reading to Leeds. The quickest trains on this route are run by LNER, although CrossCountry offers cheaper tickets and has more trains.

CrossCountry Reading to Leeds

CrossCountry provides both long- and short-distance train services all over the UK. Its Reading-Leeds train service operates hourly throughout the day. Passengers can choose from over 15 CrossCountry trains from Reading to Leeds daily. There are no direct trains - passengers have to change at Birmingham en route to Leeds.

London Northeastern Railway Reading to Leeds

LNER runs up to 10 trains on the Reading-Leeds route every day. It has the quickest connections on the route, with its fastest trains completing the journey in 3 hours 35 minutes. LNER has a smaller fleet than CrossCountry and runs fewer trains from Reading to Leeds. Only connecting trips are available, with passengers changing trains in London or York.

Reading to Leeds trains: Services on board

LNER offers Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets, each having first- and standard-class options. All LNER trains operating on the Reading-Leeds route have wheelchair spaces for travellers with disabilities. Passengers can bring a maximum of one suitcase, a carry-on bag, and a small handbag. Cats, dogs, and other small animals are permitted on board so long as they don't take up a seat. Travellers can bring up to two pets but may have to pay an extra fee for each additional pet. LNER doesn't charge riders for bringing their bike, but passengers may need to make a reservation ahead of time.

There are both first- and standard-class sections on CrossCountry trains going from Reading to Leeds. Travellers can bring only one suitcase, along with smaller items such as shopping bags and laptop bags. Passengers with folding bikes can store them in the luggage racks. Those with bigger bikes must book space in advance.

How to find cheap train tickets from Reading to Leeds

Travelling in off-peak hours can help passengers save money on their train journey from Reading to Leeds. Longer journeys and connecting trips also reduce ticket costs. Tickets bought on the departure day can be expensive, whereas purchasing tickets in advance can cut prices by as much as 30%. With Omio, travellers have all the tools they need to find the best tickets for trains from Reading to Leeds.

FAQs: Reading to Leeds train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Leeds 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 Leeds, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
A stay of two to three days is ideal to explore Leeds, allowing time to visit its museums, shop in its historic arcades, and enjoy the local dining scene.
In Leeds, you can explore the Leeds City Museum with its interactive exhibits on natural history, archaeology, and local history, or visit the Tudor-Jacobean Temple Newsam, which features beautiful gardens and a working farm. The Thackray Medical Museum offers engaging displays on the history of medicine. For cultural experiences, The Grand Theatre hosts a variety of performances, including opera, ballet, and musicals. For shopping, the Victoria Quarter is renowned for its stunning architecture and luxury boutiques. Noteworthy sights include the Royal Armouries Museum with its vast collection of arms and armor, the Leeds Art Gallery showcasing British art, and Roundhay Park, one of Europe's largest city parks. Kirkstall Abbey and Harewood House provide historical and picturesque settings with impressive art collections and landscaped gardens.
The cost of a train ticket from Reading to Leeds can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £49, while the average price tends to be around £95.
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Leeds is by coach, costing approximately £44.
Booking trains from Reading to Leeds in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train distance from Reading to Leeds is 263 km.
The last train from Reading to Leeds departs at 22:14.
The train journey from Reading to Leeds covers a distance of 263 km and takes approximately 3h 25m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train station in Reading that goes to Leeds is Reading station (RDG), and it arrives at Leeds station (LDS).
The first train from Reading to Leeds leaves at 2:10.
Trains from Reading to Leeds run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Reading to Leeds.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Leeds.
Yes, there is a direct train between Reading and Leeds. The service operates 0 times per day, provided by Cross Country.
To get from Reading to Leeds, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Reading to Leeds.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Reading and Leeds

Reading
Leeds
The major train station for departures in Reading is Reading. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Reading for your trip from Reading to Leeds.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:15 - 22:45 Saturday 05:30 - 22:45 Sunday 07:15 - 22:45 Please note: Reservations and tickets requiring reservations are sold at the following times only: Mon - Sat 08:00 - 20:00 and Sun 09:00 - 20:00
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Multi Storey Car Park
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Toilets are located on Station Platforms and in The Brunel Arcade building
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Front of station, underground short stay car park and long stay car park.
  • Storage CCTV: No
Public transport options for Reading
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the North side of the station
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 10:45 Saturday - Sunday Closed
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage CCTV: No
Public transport options for Reading West
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Towards Reading: Bus Stop on Oxford Road under Railway Bridge. Heading away from Reading Bus Stop on Oxford Road, outside McDonalds.
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km

More options for your journey from Reading to Leeds

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrain Times to Leeds Reading to Leeds train

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone