- Must visit
Norton Priory Museum and Gardens
Museum and excavated medieval priory with galleries, ruins and gardens. A key place to understand local history, archaeology and monastic life.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Runcorn
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 20 Oct
Cheapest price on 20 Oct
£68
Average ticket price on 20 Oct
£68
Fastest journey on 20 Oct
3 h 7 m
Average journey duration on 20 Oct
3 h 7 m
Trains on 20 Oct
1
Distance
241 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Runcorn is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Runcorn will cost around £68 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £68.
Fast trains
On Tue 20 Oct, we found 1 trains from Reading to Runcorn, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 241 km distance in an average of 3 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 7 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 7 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.
6:153h07Reading9:22Runcorn£681One-way0 changes
- 6:153h07Reading9:22Runcorn£681One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Runcorn
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Runcorn run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £52 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:42, the last at 21:12. The fastest train covers the 241 km distance in 2h 36m.
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 241 km |
Average train duration 3h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price £52 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 36m |
First train 5:42 |
Last train 21:12 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 Runcorn train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Runcorn trains for today, Monday 19 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 6:45 Reading | 3h12 | 9:57 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 7:15 Reading | 3h06 | 10:21 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 8:15 Reading | 3h06 | 11:21 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 8:51 Reading | 3h06 | 11:57 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 9:15 Reading | 3h06 | 12:21 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 10:15 Reading | 3h06 | 13:21 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 10:46 Reading | 3h11 | 13:57 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 11:15 Reading | 3h09 | 14:24 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 11:45 Reading | 3h12 | 14:57 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 12:15 Reading | 3h06 | 15:21 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 13:15 Reading | 3h06 | 16:21 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 14:16 Reading | 3h05 | 17:21 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 14:45 Reading | 3h12 | 17:57 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 15:14 Reading | 3h06 | 18:20 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 15:43 Reading | 3h14 | 18:57 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 16:15 Reading | 3h07 | 19:22 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 17:45 Reading | 3h12 | 20:57 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 18:15 Reading | 3h42 | 21:57 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 19:15 Reading | 3h42 | 22:57 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 20:42 Reading | 3h48 | 0:30 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| 21:15 Reading | 9h42 | 6:57 Runcorn | 1 change | |
| Tuesday 20 October | |||||
| 6:15 Reading | 3h07 | 9:22 Runcorn | 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 Runcorn trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Chiltern Railways and more offer trains services from Reading to Runcorn.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Runcorn.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains or Chiltern Railways to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Runcorn.
- 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains or Chiltern Railways to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Runcorn.
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Chiltern Railways from Reading to Runcorn trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Chiltern Railways trains will get you between Reading and Runcorn from £52. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Avanti West Coast Duration
2h 36m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£101
Avanti West Coast 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
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
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 53m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£52
CrossCountry frequency
4 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
West Midlands Trains
About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average West Midlands Trains Duration
3h 27m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
£225
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Chiltern Railways
About
Chiltern Railways is a regional train company in the United Kingdom. Check the different ticket types for your next journey: Duo, Anytime, Season, Super Off Peak, Off Peak and Advance. It operates services from London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, Banbury, Aylesbury, High Wycombe, and Stratford-upon-Avon. It also runs services from Birmingham Moor Street to Stratford-upon-Avon. Chiltern Railways offers a range of train types, including InterCity 125, Class 165 and Class 168 trains. These trains are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, power sockets, and free Wi-Fi. The company offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include a café bar, a shop, and a quiet coach. The most popular routes for Chiltern Railways are London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, and High Wycombe.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Chiltern Railways Duration
4h 32m
Cheapest Chiltern Railways Price
£138
Chiltern Railways frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for £3. Free for Advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs allowed with lead
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Runcorn
Things to do in Runcorn
Discover the best of Runcorn — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Runcorn trip today.
- Recommended
Catalyst Science Discovery Centre and Museum
Local museum in nearby Widnes with exhibits on industry, transport and everyday life in Halton. Useful for wider context around Runcorn and the Mersey.
- Recommended
The Brindley
Community arts venue in a former church in nearby Widnes. It hosts exhibitions, performances and cultural events within easy reach of Runcorn.
- Recommended
Runcorn Hill Park and Local Nature Reserve
Linear country park following a former canal. Popular for walking and cycling, with woodland, cuttings and links to several parts of Runcorn.
- Recommended
The Promenade
Riverside promenade and green space beside the Mersey, good for bridge views, fresh air and a relaxed walk near the old town.
- Recommended
Runcorn Old Town
Historic part of Runcorn with traditional streets, churches and civic buildings. Best for seeing the town’s older character on foot.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cheshire Cheese
A crumbly Cheshire cheese made locally for centuries in nearby Cheshire. It is one of England’s oldest named cheeses and a classic regional staple.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Wilkinsons of Widnes Jam
A traditional sweet-and-sour fruit preserve from nearby Widnes, long linked with the area’s jam-making heritage and often served with toast or pastries.
- Vegetarian
Eccles Cake
A rich fruit cake from the north-west, made with currants, spice and tea. It is a familiar regional bake often enjoyed sliced with butter.
Sammys Pizza and Indian Cuisine
Popular Indian restaurant known for flavourful curries, grilled dishes and a smart but relaxed dining room suitable for groups and families.
Piccola Italia
Casual Italian venue serving pasta, pizza and familiar comfort dishes in a friendly setting near the town centre.
The Griffin Inn
Modern grill and steakhouse offering burgers, steaks and hearty mains in a contemporary, informal atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Dining and cafés are fairly priced, local transport is manageable, and accommodation is usually cheaper than in major cities such as London or Manchester.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Tipping in cafés is optional, such as small change.
FAQs: Reading to Runcorn train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Runcorn 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 Runcorn, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Reading to Runcorn can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £52, while the average price tends to be around £170.
The train journey from Reading to Runcorn covers a distance of 241 km and takes approximately 2h 36m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Reading to Runcorn is 241 km.
The first train from Reading to Runcorn leaves at 5:42.
The last train from Reading to Runcorn departs at 21:12.
Trains from Reading to Runcorn run approximately 6 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Reading to Runcorn.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Runcorn.
There is no night train service from Reading to Runcorn.
The train station in Reading that goes to Runcorn is Reading station (RDG), and it arrives at Runcorn station (RUN).
Booking trains from Reading to Runcorn 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 Runcorn offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes. Passengers can enjoy views of the English countryside, including rolling hills and fields, particularly as the route passes through parts of the Chilterns and the Midlands.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Runcorn.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Reading and Runcorn
Most Reading to Runcorn trains use the Reading to Runcorn station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Runcorn 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 Runcorn
Which Reading station do trains to Runcorn leave from?
Trains from Reading to Runcorn 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 Runcorn station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Runcorn arrive at Runcorn. Runcorn is 1 km from Runcorn city centre.
RuncornRuncorn station, Station Road, Runcorn, Cheshire, WA7 5UB
City-centre transport
Getting to Runcorn from Runcorn city centre
Bus61, 79C, 82A · 1m · £2 · every ~22 min
Runcorn train station facilities and services
Runcorn has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Runcorn.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Runcorn. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Runcorn: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Runcorn: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Runcorn: 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 may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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 Runcorn
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Runcorn and Reading
Most popular train connections to Runcorn
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