- Must visit
The Harris
Major city museum and library in a landmark building, known for art, history and regular exhibitions in the Harris Quarter.
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
9:153h35Reading12:50Preston£1051One-way0 changes
- 9:153h35Reading12:50Preston£1051One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Reading to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £55. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 30m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £55, and a flight costs an average of £138.
Distance: 283 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£106 Average Price | £59 Average Price Cheapest | £221 Average Price |
3h 34m Average total duration 3h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 25m Average total duration 7h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 30m Average total duration Fastest 2h 30m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 1.7kg CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Reading to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Preston trains for today, Monday 3 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:15 Reading | 3h35 | 12:50 Preston | 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 Preston 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.
Tue
04 Aug
04 Aug
Wed
05 Aug
05 Aug
Thu
06 Aug
06 Aug
Fri
07 Aug
07 Aug
Sat
08 Aug
08 Aug
Sun
09 Aug
09 Aug
Mon
10 Aug
10 Aug
Why should you book Reading to Preston trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast or Cross Country offer trains services from Reading to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Preston.
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 Preston.
- 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 Preston.
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 Preston.
- 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 Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Preston run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £105 but you can travel from only £55 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 02:24, the last at 21:18. The fastest train covers the 283 km distance in 3h 35m.
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 £55
Distance 283 km |
Average train duration 3h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price £105 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 3h 35m |
First train 2:24 |
Last train 21:18 |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 28 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 £55
Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Cross Country from Reading to Preston trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Cross Country trains will get you between Reading and Preston from £55. 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 35m
Cheapest Price
£105
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 25m
Cheapest Price
£108
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 31m
Cheapest Price
£175
Cross Country frequency
16 a day
Complete guide to Preston
Things to do in Preston
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
- Recommended
The Egypt Centre
Museum on the University of Central Lancashire campus with Egyptology, archaeology and world cultures collections in a compact gallery.
- Recommended
Ribble Steam Railway and Museum
Volunteer-run transport museum at Ribble Steam Railway, featuring Preston’s industrial and rail heritage with locomotives and exhibits.
- Must visit
Avenham Park
Historic city park with terraces, paths and river views. A favourite for walks, photography and access to nearby Miller Park.
- Recommended
Miller Park
Landscaped Victorian park beside the River Ribble, appreciated for open lawns, flower displays and peaceful links to city-centre walks.
- Recommended
Preston Docklands
Regenerated docklands area with marina views, public art and waterside paths, popular for an easy modern contrast to the historic centre.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
A buttery shortcrust pie filled with potatoes and onions. It is Preston and Lancashire’s best-known savoury bake, tied to local mill and farming traditions.
- Vegetarian
Simnel Cake
A rich fruit cake packed with currants and topped with almond paste. It is a classic Lancashire celebration cake still eaten across Preston.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Cheese
A crumbly, mild white cheese from Lancashire often made in creamy, tasty and crumbly layers. It reflects the county’s long dairy heritage.
263 Restaurant
Stylish modern restaurant serving British and European plates with cocktails. Good for a polished dinner in central Preston.
Angelo's
Established local spot for Neapolitan-style pizza and Italian comfort food in a friendly, informal setting.
The Continental
Traditional city-centre pub known for cask ales and hearty British dishes in a historic, relaxed setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Preston is moderate by UK standards, with cheaper stays and dining than Manchester or London, while local buses, rail and casual meals remain manageable for most 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
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafes do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Preston Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £6.50
To the city centre
Preston Railway Station -> Preston Bus Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 13 min
- Most local buses in Preston support contactless Tap and Go; fares are capped at the Day Ticket price on participating Preston Bus services.
- Check the operator before boarding. Preston fares and app tickets may differ from other bus operators in the city.
FAQs: Reading to Preston train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Preston 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 Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Reading to Preston can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £105, while the average price tends to be around £106.
The train journey from Reading to Preston covers a distance of 283 km and takes approximately 3h 35m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Reading to Preston is 283 km.
The first train from Reading to Preston leaves at 2:24.
The last train from Reading to Preston departs at 21:18.
Trains from Reading to Preston run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Reading to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Preston.
To get from Reading to Preston, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Reading to Preston.
The train station in Reading that goes to Preston is Reading station (RDG), and it arrives at Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Preston is by coach, costing approximately £55.
Booking trains from Reading to Preston 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 Preston offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with highlights including views of the rolling countryside in the Midlands and glimpses of the Pennine Hills as you approach Preston.
A day trip from Reading to Preston is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 35m each way. There are 5 trains per day available for this route.
To fully explore Preston's key attractions, such as the Harris Museum, Avenham and Miller Parks, and the Ribble Steam Railway, a stay of two to three days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Preston.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Reading and Preston
Most Reading to Preston trains use the Reading to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Preston 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 Preston
Which Reading station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Reading to Preston 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.
Reading Green ParkReading RG2 6AU, UK
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.
TilehurstTilehurst station, Oxford Road, Tilehurst, Berkshire, RG31 6TH+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Tilehurst from Reading city centre
Tilehurst is 4 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Paddington - Didcot Parkway, Reading - Didcot Parkway · 3m · £2 · every ~4 min
Bus16, 85, 88, 18, 93, 43 · 16m · £2 · every ~18 min
16, 85, 88, 18, 93, 43 · 19m · £2 · every ~18 min
Tilehurst train station facilities and services
Tilehurst has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Tilehurst.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Tilehurst.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Tilehurst.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Tilehurst: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Tilehurst: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Tilehurst: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step free Category C - This station does not have step free access to operational platforms, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible Taxis available at this station Please call our free help line for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: No, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Preston station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Preston arrive at Preston. Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre.
PrestonFishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston from Preston city centre
Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3, 2, 2A, 111, 111C · 13m · £8 · every ~36 min
Preston train station facilities and services
Preston has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.
More options for your journey from Reading to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Reading
Most popular train connections to Preston
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.
