- Must visit
Leeds Art Gallery
Leeds’s principal art gallery shows British art, sculpture and changing exhibitions in an elegant central building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Leeds
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 04 Oct
Cheapest price on 04 Oct
£49
Average ticket price on 04 Oct
£62
Fastest journey on 04 Oct
3 h 40 m
Average journey duration on 04 Oct
4 h 8 m
Trains on 04 Oct
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 £62 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £49.
Fast trains
On Sun 04 Oct, we found 5 trains from Reading to Leeds, including 5 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 263 km distance in an average of 4 h 8 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 40 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 37 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.
8:153h53Reading12:08Leeds£491One-way0 changes- 9:153h47Reading13:02Leeds£511One-way0 changes
15:165h37Reading20:53Leeds£521One-way0 changes- 7:413h41Reading11:22Leeds£671One-way0 changes
- 9:113h40Reading12:51Leeds£911One-way0 changes
- 9:113h40Reading12:51Leeds£911One-way0 changes
- 7:413h41Reading11:22Leeds£671One-way0 changes
- 9:153h47Reading13:02Leeds£511One-way0 changes
- 8:153h53Reading12:08Leeds£491One-way0 changes
- 15:165h37Reading20:53Leeds£521One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Leeds
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Leeds run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £42 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 02:10, the last at 22:20. The fastest train covers the 263 km distance in 2h 48m.
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 263 km |
Average train duration 3h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price £42 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 48m |
First train 2:10 |
Last train 22:20 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
Live departures
Reading to Leeds train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Leeds trains for tomorrow, Sunday 4 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:41 Reading | 3h41 | 11:22 Leeds | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:15 Reading | 3h53 | 12:08 Leeds | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:11 Reading | 3h40 | 12:51 Leeds | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:15 Reading | 3h47 | 13:02 Leeds | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Reading to Leeds trains with Omio?
Grand Central Trains as well as CrossCountry or London North Eastern Railway offer trains services from Reading to Leeds.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Leeds.
Why book with Omio vs Grand Central Trains?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Grand Central Trains, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Leeds.
- 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 Grand Central Trains with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Leeds.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Leeds.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Leeds.
Train companies: London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Grand Central Trains from Reading to Leeds trainsLondon North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Grand Central Trains trains will get you between Reading and Leeds from £42. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
London North Eastern Railway
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 London North Eastern Railway Duration
2h 48m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£67
London North Eastern Railway 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
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 CrossCountry Duration
3h 23m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£42
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
Grand Central Trains
About
Grand Central Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the North East of England, Yorkshire and the East Midlands. Grand Central Trains offers a range of services, including express, semi-fast and stopping services. Express services run between London and the North East, Yorkshire and the East Midlands, with journey times of up to three hours. Semi-fast services run between London and the North East, Yorkshire and the East Midlands, with journey times of up to four hours. Stopping services run between London and the North East, Yorkshire and the East Midlands, with journey times of up to five hours. Grand Central Trains offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Standard tickets are the most economical option, while First Class tickets offer more comfort and space. Advance tickets are available for purchase up to 12 weeks in advance and offer the best value for money. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Grand Central Trains are London to Bradford, London to Sunderland, London to York and London to Wakefield.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Grand Central Trains Duration
2h 52m
Cheapest Grand Central Trains Price
£93
Grand Central Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus cafe bar on some services
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory, available for a small fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and ramp assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Leeds
Things to do in Leeds
Discover the best of Leeds — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Leeds trip today.
- Recommended
Leeds City Museum
A major city museum with natural history, archaeology and local history displays suitable for all ages.
- Recommended
Leeds Industrial Museum
A large industrial museum in a former mill, covering textiles, engineering and Leeds’s manufacturing heritage.
- Must visit
Millennium Square
A grand pedestrianised square framed by major buildings, often hosting events, markets and seasonal installations.
- Recommended
Leeds Dock
A lively regenerated waterfront with canalside walks, converted warehouses, public art and independent venues.
- Recommended
County Arcade
A handsome Victorian shopping arcade with mosaics and period detail, ideal for architecture and boutique browsing.
- Gluten-free
Yorkshire fish bake
A Leeds speciality of white fish baked in cream and topped with mashed potato. It is tied to Victorian cookery in the city and wider West Yorkshire.
- Vegetarian
Yorkshire pudding with onion gravy
Classic Yorkshire pudding served as a savoury starter with onion gravy. It is a defining county dish commonly eaten in Leeds pubs and Sunday roasts.
Steak and ale pie
Slow-cooked beef stew with root vegetables and herbs under a suet pastry lid. A hearty northern pub dish long associated with Yorkshire cooking.
Tharavadu
Popular Indian restaurant serving classic curries and tandoori dishes in a smart, welcoming room. Well suited to Leeds' strong South Asian food scene.
The Man Behind the Curtain
Refined British tasting menus in an intimate, modern dining room. A strong choice for seasonal Yorkshire produce and a special-occasion meal.
Gaucho Leeds
Lively city-centre restaurant known for dry-aged steaks, burgers and cocktails. Stylish but relaxed, suited to a polished casual dinner.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while public transport and everyday tourist costs stay fairly manageable.
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
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional.
MCard Mobile
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.50
- Day pass
- £6.00
To the city centre
Leeds Bradford Airport -> Leeds Station
- Distance
- 14 km
- Travel time
- 40 min
- Contactless payment works on First Bus services in Leeds for single, day and week tickets.
- MCard Mobile sells bus and train tickets across West Yorkshire; buy before boarding for quicker boarding.
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.
The cost of a train ticket from Reading to Leeds can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £42, while the average price tends to be around £101.
The train journey from Reading to Leeds covers a distance of 263 km and takes approximately 2h 48m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Reading to Leeds is 263 km.
The first train from Reading to Leeds leaves at 2:10.
The last train from Reading to Leeds departs at 22:20.
Trains from Reading to Leeds run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Reading to Leeds.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Leeds.
There is no night train service from Reading to Leeds.
The train station in Reading that goes to Leeds is Reading station (RDG), and it arrives at Leeds station (LDS).
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 journey from Reading to Leeds offers diverse scenery, with stretches of picturesque countryside, charming towns, and urban landscapes. While not typically considered one of the UK's most scenic routes, passengers can still enjoy varied views throughout the journey.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Leeds.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Reading and Leeds
Most Reading to Leeds trains use the Reading to Leeds station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Leeds 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 Leeds
Which Reading station do trains to Leeds leave from?
Trains from Reading to Leeds 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.
LeedsNew Station St, Leeds LS1 4DY, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Leeds from Leeds city centre
Bus lines1, 16, 201, 229, 34, 5, 60, A1
Train linesNorthern, TransPennine Express
Leeds train station facilities and services
Leeds has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Bagel Factory, Caffè Nero, KFC, Leon, McDonald's, The Pasty Shop, Starbucks, Pret a Manger, JD Wetherspoon, Delice de France
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located in the West Footbridge and South Concourse.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 04:45 - 23:59, Sun: 06:45 - 22:30. Information desks are located on the North Concourse near the Wellington Street entrance. Open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is located on the main concourse. Services provided by Excess Baggage Co, open daily from 08:00 until 21:00. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leeds: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leeds: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leeds: There are elevators or level access to all platforms in the whole station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Leeds City Center, The Queens Hotel, Leeds Marriott Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Leeds
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leeds and Reading
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