- Must visit
The Silk Museum
Town museum covering Macclesfield's silk heritage, local history and changing exhibitions in a restored industrial setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Macclesfield
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 16 Sept
Cheapest price on 16 Sept
£171
Average ticket price on 16 Sept
£173
Fastest journey on 16 Sept
2 h 49 m
Average journey duration on 16 Sept
2 h 50 m
Trains on 16 Sept
4
Distance
215 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Macclesfield is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Macclesfield will cost around £173 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £171.
Fast trains
On Wed 16 Sept, we found 4 trains from Reading to Macclesfield, including 3 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 215 km distance in an average of 2 h 50 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 49 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 51 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.
6:152h49Reading9:04Macclesfield£1711One-way0 changes- 7:152h50Reading10:05Macclesfield£1711One-way0 changes
- 8:152h49Reading11:04Macclesfield£1711One-way0 changes
- 6:452h51Reading9:36Macclesfield£1781One-way1 change
- 6:152h49Reading9:04Macclesfield£1711One-way0 changes
- 8:152h49Reading11:04Macclesfield£1711One-way0 changes
- 7:152h50Reading10:05Macclesfield£1711One-way0 changes
- 6:452h51Reading9:36Macclesfield£1781One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train for Reading to Macclesfield
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Macclesfield among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £174 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 20m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £174, while a train costs an average of £174.
Distance: 215 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£174 Average Price Cheapest | £42 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 20m Average total duration Fastest 2h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 35m 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 Macclesfield is a train with an average price of £174.
The fastest way to travel from Reading to Macclesfield is by train with an average journey time of 2h 50m.
Yes, you can take a train between Reading and Macclesfield.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 45m sooner (2h 50m by train vs 3h 35m by car). Tickets start at around £174 compared to roughly £42 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 CrossCountry, 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 Macclesfield train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Macclesfield trains for today, Tuesday 15 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15:43 Reading | 2h53 | 18:36 Macclesfield | 1 change | |
| 16:15 Reading | 2h49 | 19:04 Macclesfield | 0 changesdirect | |
| 17:15 Reading | 2h49 | 20:04 Macclesfield | 0 changesdirect | |
| 18:15 Reading | 2h49 | 21:04 Macclesfield | 0 changesdirect | |
| 19:15 Reading | 2h49 | 22:04 Macclesfield | 0 changesdirect | |
| 20:15 Reading | 2h50 | 23:05 Macclesfield | 0 changesdirect | |
| 20:42 Reading | 3h30 | 0:12 Macclesfield | 1 change | |
| 21:15 Reading | 9h49 | 7:04 Macclesfield | 1 change | |
| Wednesday 16 September | |||||
| 6:15 Reading | 2h49 | 9:04 Macclesfield | 0 changesdirect | |
| 6:45 Reading | 2h51 | 9:36 Macclesfield | 1 change | |
| 7:15 Reading | 2h50 | 10:05 Macclesfield | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:15 Reading | 2h49 | 11:04 Macclesfield | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Reading to Macclesfield 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.
Wed
16 Sept
16 Sept
Thu
17 Sept
17 Sept
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
Why should you book Reading to Macclesfield trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Cross Country offer trains services from Reading to Macclesfield.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Macclesfield.
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 Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Macclesfield.
- 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 Macclesfield
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Macclesfield run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £171 if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:10, the last at 22:36. The fastest train covers the 215 km distance in 2h 45m.
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 215 km |
Average train duration 2h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price £171 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 45m |
First train 5:10 |
Last train 22:36 |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 1 day |
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, Cross Country from Reading to Macclesfield trainsCrossCountry, Cross Country trains will get you between Reading and Macclesfield from £171. 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 50m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£23
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
2h 45m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
£171
Cross Country frequency
16 a day
Complete guide to Macclesfield
Things to do in Macclesfield
Discover the best of Macclesfield — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Macclesfield trip today.
- Must visit
Paradise Mill
Working Jacquard silk mill with looms and guided visits that show how Macclesfield became a centre of silk production.
Macclesfield Bus Station Heritage Centre
Small local museum and archive space preserving the history of Macclesfield's once busy bus and transport network.
- Must visit
Tegg's Nose Country Park
Popular hilltop country park on the edge of town with woodland walks, panoramic views and links to local history.
- Recommended
Market Place
Historic market area with independent shops, civic buildings and regular markets at the heart of Macclesfield.
- Recommended
Macclesfield Canal
Peaceful canal-side walking route with locks, mills and waterside views that reveal the town's industrial heritage.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cheshire Cheese
A crumbly Cheshire cow’s milk cheese with a fresh, tangy taste. It is one of the county’s best-known traditional foods and long associated with local farming.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Blue Cheshire
A strong, salty blue cheese traditionally made in Cheshire. It reflects the county’s dairy heritage and is a classic regional cheese board choice.
- Vegetarian
Eccles Cake
A rich fruit cake from nearby Eccles, often eaten across Greater Manchester and Cheshire. It is packed with currants and commonly served sliced with tea.
Chestergate Bistro
Modern British dining in a polished town-centre setting. Known for seasonal menus, careful cooking and a relaxed but smart atmosphere.
Shalimar Restaurant
Popular Indian restaurant serving classic curries, tandoori dishes and grills in a lively, dependable setting close to the town centre.
Amore Mio
Casual Italian spot serving pizza, pasta and straightforward comfort food. Friendly and family-oriented, it is a well-known local choice.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Manchester or London, while local buses and cafés remain fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Café tipping is optional, usually just small change.
D&G app
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- /n
To the city centre
Macclesfield Railway Station -> Macclesfield Town Hall, Macclesfield
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Macclesfield railway station is within the town centre, so many central destinations are walkable from the station.
- For bus fares and service-specific tickets, Cheshire East directs passengers to check the individual operator fare pages before travel.
FAQs: Reading to Macclesfield train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Reading to Macclesfield can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £171, while the average price tends to be around £174.
The train journey from Reading to Macclesfield covers a distance of 215 km and takes approximately 2h 45m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Reading to Macclesfield is 215 km.
The first train from Reading to Macclesfield leaves at 5:10.
The last train from Reading to Macclesfield departs at 22:36.
Trains from Reading to Macclesfield run approximately 8 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Reading to Macclesfield.
Yes, there is a direct train between Reading and Macclesfield. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
To travel from Reading to Macclesfield, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Reading to Macclesfield.
The train station in Reading that goes to Macclesfield is Reading station (RDG), and it arrives at Macclesfield station (MAC).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Macclesfield is by train, costing approximately £171.
Booking trains from Reading to Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the Chiltern Hills and the Peak District, showcasing picturesque countryside and charming towns.
A day trip from Reading to Macclesfield is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 45m. Trains run 7 times per day over a distance of 215 km.
Typically, spending two to three days in Macclesfield allows visitors to explore key attractions like the Silk Museum, Macclesfield Forest, and the nearby Peak District National Park, while enjoying local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Macclesfield.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Reading and Macclesfield
Most Reading to Macclesfield trains use the Reading to Macclesfield station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield
Which Reading station do trains to Macclesfield leave from?
Trains from Reading to Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Macclesfield arrive at Macclesfield. Macclesfield is from Macclesfield city centre.
MacclesfieldMacclesfield station, Waters Green, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK11 6JP
City-centre transport
Getting to Macclesfield from Macclesfield city centre
Bus391 · 3m · every ~1 min
Macclesfield train station facilities and services
Macclesfield has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Macclesfield.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Macclesfield.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Macclesfield.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Macclesfield: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Macclesfield: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Macclesfield: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are no 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 Macclesfield
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Macclesfield and Reading
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