Reading to Manchester train with CrossCountry

Sat 29 Aug
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CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Cross Country
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Cross Country
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Manchester

Showing times and prices for 29 Aug

Cheapest price

£23

Average price

£76

Fastest journey

3 h 13 m

Average duration

3 h 14 m

Trains per day

28

Distance

241 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Reading to Manchester will cost around £76 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £23.

Fast trains

Of the 28 trains that leave Reading for Manchester 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 241 km distance in an average of 3 h 14 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 13 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 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.

  • CrossCountryG00881
    14:153h14
    Reading station (RDG)
    17:29Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    £231One-way
    0 changes
  • CrossCountryG00868
    12:153h14
    Reading station (RDG)
    15:29Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    £231One-way
    0 changes
  • CrossCountryG00873
    13:153h14
    Reading station (RDG)
    16:29Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    £231One-way
    0 changes
  • CrossCountryG00886
    15:143h15
    Reading station (RDG)
    18:29Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    £231One-way
    0 changes
  • CrossCountryG00707 · G00870
    12:453h14
    Reading station (RDG)
    15:59Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    £341One-way
    1 change

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Reading to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £22. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 3m. 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 train costs an average of £22, and a flight costs an average of £54.

Distance: 241 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£37

Average Price

Cheapest

£49

Average Price

£89

Average Price

3h 35m

Average total duration

3h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 5m

Average total duration

5h 35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 3m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 3m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

0.7 - 1.4kg

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

Megabus

Most popular bus company

British Airways

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Reading to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Reading to Manchester trains for today, Friday 28 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Great Western RailwayW34855+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW34038
On time
8:02 Reading station (RDG)
3h17
11:19 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 changes
CrossCountryG00851
On time
8:15 Reading station (RDG)
3h14
11:29 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 changesdirect
CrossCountryG00739 · G00854
On time
8:51 Reading station (RDG)
3h08
11:59 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 change
Great Western RailwayW34562+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW34074
On time
12:05 Reading station (RDG)
3h14
15:19 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 changes
CrossCountryG00866
On time
12:15 Reading station (RDG)
3h14
15:29 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 changesdirect
CrossCountryG00710 · G00872
On time
12:44 Reading station (RDG)
3h15
15:59 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 change
Great Western RailwayG15045+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW34053
On time
12:47 Reading station (RDG)
3h18
16:05 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
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 Manchester by train, coach or flight

Compare train, coach and flight 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
29 Aug
Sun
30 Aug
Mon
31 Aug
Tue
01 Sept
Wed
02 Sept
Thu
03 Sept
Fri
04 Sept

Why should you book Reading to Manchester trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast or Cross Country offer trains services from Reading to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Manchester.

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 Avanti West Coast or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Manchester.
  • 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Manchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Manchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Reading to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Reading to Manchester run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £22 but you can travel from only £15 by coach.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 241 km distance in 3h 14m.

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 £15
Distance
241 km
Average train duration
3h 5m
Cheapest ticket price
£22
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
3h 14m
First train
0:06
Last train
23:45
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Tue
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £15

Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Cross Country from Reading to Manchester trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Cross Country trains will get you between Reading and Manchester from £15. 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 Duration
3h 14m
Cheapest Price
£22
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

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 55m
Cheapest Price
£249
Avanti West Coast frequency
5 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
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 8m
Cheapest Price
£196
Cross Country frequency
16 a day

Complete guide to Manchester

Things to do in Manchester

Discover the best of Manchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester trip today.

  • Must visit

Science and Industry Museum

Major science and industry museum on historic railway land, with galleries on textiles, transport and Manchester’s role in modern innovation.

  • Must visit

Manchester Museum

Large university museum with natural history, archaeology and cultural collections, plus changing exhibitions in a prominent Oxford Road building.

  • Must visit

Manchester Art Gallery

Leading art museum with British and European paintings, design, costume and craft collections in a landmark city-centre building.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for a UK city. Hotels can be pricey at peak times, but dining, pubs and local transport are usually cheaper than London.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£70+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is good and not already added. Round up taxi fares; cafés usually do not require tips.

FAQs: Reading to Manchester train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Reading to Manchester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £22, while the average price tends to be around £37.
The train journey from Reading to Manchester covers a distance of 241 km and takes approximately 3h 14m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Reading to Manchester is 241 km.
The first train from Reading to Manchester leaves at 0:06.
The last train from Reading to Manchester departs at 23:45.
Trains from Reading to Manchester run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Reading to Manchester.
Yes, there is a direct train between Reading and Manchester. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
To get from Reading to Manchester, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Reading to Manchester.
The train station in Reading that goes to Manchester is Reading station (RDG), and it arrives at Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Manchester is by coach, costing approximately £15.
Booking trains from Reading to Manchester 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 Manchester offers a varied landscape, featuring picturesque countryside, charming towns, and glimpses of the Peak District, providing passengers with a pleasant and scenic experience.
A day trip from Reading to Manchester is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 14m. However, there are 6 train services available per day. The distance between the two cities is 241 km.
In Manchester, you can explore Old Trafford, the iconic stadium of Manchester United, and the Northern Quarter, known for its independent shops and street art. Enjoy performances at the Manchester Opera House and experience the vibrant nightlife at Deansgate Locks. Relax at Heaton Park, one of Europe's largest municipal parks. Visit the Manchester Art Gallery and the Science and Industry Museum. Admire Manchester Cathedral's Gothic architecture and the John Rylands Library's rare collections. Stroll through Castlefield, with its Roman ruins and picturesque canals.
A stay of 2 to 4 days in Manchester is generally sufficient to explore its main attractions, including museums, historical sites, and vibrant neighbourhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Manchester.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Reading and Manchester

Most Reading to Manchester trains use the Reading to Manchester Piccadilly station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester Airport. Use this guide to compare Reading and Manchester 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 Manchester

Which Reading station do trains to Manchester leave from?

Trains from Reading to Manchester 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 3451652030ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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.

Reading Green ParkReading RG2 6AU, UKAccessibility
City-centre transport

Getting to Reading Green Park from Reading city centre

Reading Green Park is 3 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainReading - Basingstoke · 6m · £2 · every ~4 min
Bus9 · 39m · £2 · every ~3 min

Reading Green Park train station facilities and services

Reading Green Park has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Reading Green Park.

Reading WestReading West station, Oxford Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 7PYParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Reading West from Reading city centre

Reading West is 1 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainReading - Basingstoke, Reading - Newbury, Reading - Bedwyn, London Paddington - Bedwyn · 2m · £0.90 · every ~6 min
Bus15, 15a, 16, 17, 91, 85, 88, 93, 43 · 4m · £2 · every ~49 min

Reading West train station facilities and services

Reading West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Reading West.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Reading West.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Reading West: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Reading West: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Reading West: 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.

More options for your journey from Reading to Manchester

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

HomeTrainsTrain Times to Manchester Reading to Manchester train

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