- Must visit
Turner Contemporary
Contemporary gallery on the seafront showing modern and historic art linked to J M W Turner and the changing light of the Kent coast.
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
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
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Reading to Margate
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Margate among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £47 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 47m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £47, while a train costs an average of £56.
Distance: 164 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£56 Average Price | £47 Average Price Cheapest | £33 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 47m Average total duration Fastest 2h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 0m Average total duration 6h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 26m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Reading to Margate is a coach with an average price of £47.
This is compared to other travel options from Reading to Margate:
A coach is £9 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Reading to Margate costing on average £56.
The fastest way to travel from Reading to Margate is by train with an average journey time of 2h 17m.
Other travel options to Margate take longer:
Coach takes on average 6h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Margate including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 9m sooner (2h 17m by train vs 2h 26m by car). Tickets start at around £56 compared to roughly £33 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.
Compare prices and tickets Reading to Margate 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.
Thu
10 Sept
10 Sept
Fri
11 Sept
11 Sept
Sat
12 Sept
12 Sept
Sun
13 Sept
13 Sept
Mon
14 Sept
14 Sept
Tue
15 Sept
15 Sept
Wed
16 Sept
16 Sept
Why should you book Reading to Margate trains with Omio?
Southeastern as well as Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Reading to Margate.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Margate.
Why book with Omio vs Southeastern?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Southeastern, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Margate.
- 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 Southeastern with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Margate.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Margate.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Margate
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Margate run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £56 but you can travel from only £47 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 02:24, the last at 22:17. The fastest train covers the 164 km distance in 2h 38m.
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 £47
Distance 164 km |
Average train duration 2h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price £56 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 38m |
First train 2:24 |
Last train 22:17 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 7 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £47
Train companies: Southeastern, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Reading to Margate trainsSoutheastern, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Reading and Margate from £47. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Southeastern
About
Southeastern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to Kent, Sussex, Surrey and parts of East Anglia. It runs services from early morning until late at night, seven days a week. Southeastern has a range of train types, including high-speed Javelin trains, commuter-friendly Metro services, and the classic InterCity services. Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southeastern are London to Kent, London to Eastbourne, and London to Hastings.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Southeastern Duration
2h 38m
Cheapest Southeastern Price
£56
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on most services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and ramps for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Family area
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway (GWR) Duration
2h 40m
Cheapest Great Western Railway (GWR) Price
£94
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Margate
Things to do in Margate
Discover the best of Margate — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Margate trip today.
- Recommended
The Crab Museum
Museum exploring the history of crab museum collections through natural science, art and humour. A quirky recent favourite in the Old Town.
- Recommended
Tracey Karloff
Artist Tracey Emin’s gallery and studio space in Margate, presenting rotating exhibitions of contemporary art in a carefully restored bathhouse.
- Must visit
Margate Main Sands
Sandy Blue Flag beach beside the harbour and old town. Ideal for sea views, paddling and classic seaside atmosphere close to major attractions.
- Recommended
Margate Harbour Arm
Historic harbour arm and quayside with sea views, galleries, events and access to the lighthouse. A lively place for a walk in all seasons.
- Recommended
Margate Old Town
Characterful quarter of narrow streets with independent shops, antiques, small galleries and historic buildings just behind the seafront.
- Gluten-free
Kent Oysters
Fresh native oysters from the Kent coast, long linked to nearby Whitstable and Thanet. Briny, mineral and traditionally eaten simply with lemon.
Fish And Chips
A classic seaside supper of battered white fish and chips, deeply rooted in Margate’s harbour and beach culture.
- Gluten-free
Smoked Or Pickled Herring
Fresh herring, traditionally cured or smoked in Kent. It reflects the historic fishing trade along the Thanet coast.
Barletta
Established bistro and wine bar in Margate Old Town, serving seasonal small plates and European-leaning cooking.
Angela's
Popular seafront seafood restaurant by the harbour, known for fresh fish, shellfish and relaxed coastal views.
The Greedy Cow
Stylish casual spot near the seafront serving brunch, coffee and modern British plates in a bright, friendly setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town. Dining and accommodation are often cheaper than London, but summer weekends and seafront stays can raise prices.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is good and not already added. Round up small taxi fares. Cafés do not expect tips, but spare change is welcome.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3
- Day pass
- >= £3.21
To the city centre
Margate station -> Cecil Square, Margate
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Stagecoach says contactless payment is available on all its buses in Thanet and Margate.
- A DayRider can be better value than singles for multiple trips, but check the current Thanet zone price in the Stagecoach Bus app before travel.
FAQs: Reading to Margate train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Margate 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 Margate, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Reading to Margate can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £56, while the average price tends to be around £56.
The train journey from Reading to Margate covers a distance of 164 km and takes approximately 2h 38m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Reading to Margate is 164 km.
The first train from Reading to Margate leaves at 2:24.
The last train from Reading to Margate departs at 22:17.
Trains from Reading to Margate run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Reading to Margate.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Margate.
To get from Reading to Margate, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Reading to Margate.
The train station in Reading that goes to Margate is Reading station (RDG), and it arrives at Margate station (MAR).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Margate is by coach, costing approximately £47.
Booking trains from Reading to Margate 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 Margate offers a mix of urban and countryside views, with sections through the scenic Kent Downs, providing glimpses of picturesque landscapes and charming villages.
A day trip from Reading to Margate is not feasible, as the journey takes 2h 38m. However, there are 4 trains per day for this route.
For a fulfilling visit to Margate, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended to explore its beaches, cultural attractions, and local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Margate.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Reading and Margate
Most Reading to Margate trains use the Reading to Margate station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Margate 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 Margate
Which Reading station do trains to Margate leave from?
Trains from Reading to Margate 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 Margate station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Margate arrive at Margate. Margate is 1 km from Margate city centre.
MargateMargate station, Station Approach, Margate, Kent, CT9 5AD+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Margate from Margate city centre
Margate is 1 km from Margate city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus942, 944, 36, 8 · 8m · £3 · every ~7 min
Margate train station facilities and services
Margate has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Margate.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Margate.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Margate. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Margate: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Margate: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Margate: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Step free access from booking hall to platform 1 for services towards Ramsgate. Step free access to all other platforms and interchange via lifts. Stepped access to platforms 2,3 and 4 via subway, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: station forecourt, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Friday 24 Hours a Day Saturday 24 Hours a Day Sunday 24 Hours a Day Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Margate
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Margate and Reading
Most popular train connections to Margate
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.
