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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Southampton
Showing times and prices for 15 Jan
Cheapest price
£19
Average price
£24
Fastest journey
49 m
Average duration
1 h 2 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
68 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Southampton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Southampton will cost around £24 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £19.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Reading for Southampton every day 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 68 km distance in an average of 1 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 49 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 16 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.
09:101h12
Reading10:22Southampton
£191One-way
0 changes
09:520h51
Reading10:43Southampton
£231One-way
0 changes
07:540h49
Reading08:43Southampton
£231One-way
0 changes
04:441h16
Reading06:00Southampton
£321One-way
0 changes
07:540h49
Reading08:43Southampton
£231One-way
0 changes
09:520h51
Reading10:43Southampton
£231One-way
0 changes
09:101h12
Reading10:22Southampton
£191One-way
0 changes
04:441h16
Reading06:00Southampton
£321One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Reading to Southampton
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £6. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 56m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £6, and a coach costs an average of £43.
Distance: 68 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£20 Average Price Cheapest | £51 Average Price |
1h 26m Average total duration Fastest 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 20m Average total duration 2h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Reading to Southampton train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Southampton trains for today, Wednesday 14 January. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 04:47
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 P32200+P61461 | On time 08:03 Reading West (RDW) | 1h19 | 09:22 Southampton Central (SOU) | 1 change | |
| C72466 | On time 08:54 Reading station (RDG) | 0h49 | 09:43 Southampton Central (SOU) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P32207+L73756 | On time 09:03 Reading West (RDW) | 1h19 | 10:22 Southampton Central (SOU) | 1 change | |
| C75241 | On time 09:52 Reading station (RDG) | 0h50 | 10:42 Southampton Central (SOU) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P32217+L73762 | On time 10:10 Reading West (RDW) | 1h12 | 11:22 Southampton Central (SOU) | 1 change | |
| C72472 | On time 10:52 Reading station (RDG) | 0h51 | 11:43 Southampton Central (SOU) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Thursday 15 January | |||||
| 04:44 Reading | 1h16 | 06:00 Southampton | 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 Southampton 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.
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15 Jan
15 Jan
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16 Jan
16 Jan
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17 Jan
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18 Jan
18 Jan
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Reading to Southampton?
The best time to book your train from Reading to Southampton is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Reading to Southampton route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Reading to Southampton per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Reading to Southampton.
Trains
from £18Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Southampton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Southampton run on average 6 times per day, taking around 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £6 if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:47, the last at 23:38. The fastest train covers the 68 km distance in 49m.
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 68 km |
Average train duration 56m |
Cheapest ticket price £6 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 49m |
First train 04:47 |
Last train 23:38 |
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, South Western Railway, Cross Country, first_great_western from Reading to Southampton trainsCrossCountry, South Western Railway, Cross Country, first_great_western trains will get you between Reading and Southampton from £6. 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
49m
Cheapest Price
£12
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
South Western Railway
About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 12m
Cheapest Price
£6
South Western Railway frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
49m
Cheapest Price
£58
Cross Country frequency
11 a day
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 3m
Cheapest Price
£54
first_great_western frequency
14 a day
Trains from Reading to Southampton
CrossCountry Trains operate direct trains from Reading to Southampton. The first direct connection is just before 8:00 a.m. Trains run roughly hourly until just before 11:00 p.m. Additional indirect connections offer earlier morning departures. These journeys use Great Western Railway services to Basingstoke to connect with South West Trains routes to Southampton. Journey times are under one hour for direct connections, about one hour and 20 minutes for indirect services. On Sundays the first direct departure is just before 10:00 a.m. Reading Station is located on the northern edge of the town centre. Trains arrive at Southampton Central Station, on the west side of town.
FAQs: Reading to Southampton train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Southampton 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 Southampton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Reading to Southampton can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £6, while the average price tends to be around £20.
The train journey from Reading to Southampton covers a distance of 68 km and takes approximately 49m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Reading to Southampton is 68 km.
The first train from Reading to Southampton leaves at 4:47.
The last train from Reading to Southampton departs at 23:38.
Trains from Reading to Southampton run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Reading to Southampton.
Yes, there is a direct train between Reading and Southampton. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
To get from Reading to Southampton, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Reading to Southampton.
The train station in Reading that goes to Southampton is Reading station (RDG), and it arrives at Southampton Central (SOU).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Southampton is by train, costing approximately £6.
Booking trains from Reading to Southampton 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 Southampton offers scenic views as it passes through picturesque countryside, crossing rivers and showcasing the rolling hills of the South of England.
Yes, a day trip from Reading to Southampton is feasible, with a journey duration of 49m and a distance of 68 km. Trains run 6 times per day.
In Southampton, you can explore the New Forest National Park for hiking and cycling, take the Hythe Ferry for a scenic trip to Hythe, and enjoy shopping at Westquay Shopping Centre. Visit the Ocean Village Marina for dining and leisure activities, or relax at Southampton Common. Discover the city's history at the Tudor House and Garden, SeaCity Museum, and Solent Sky Museum. Art enthusiasts can visit the Southampton City Art Gallery, while theatre lovers can catch performances at the Mayflower Theatre.
For a well-rounded experience, spending 2 to 3 days in Southampton allows you to explore key attractions such as the SeaCity Museum, Tudor House and Garden, and the vibrant waterfront.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Southampton.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Reading and Southampton
Reading
Southampton
The major train station for departures in Reading is Reading. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Reading for your trip from Reading to Southampton.
Amenities at train station
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:15 - 22:45 Saturday 05:30 - 22:45 Sunday 07:15 - 22:45 Please note: Reservations and tickets requiring reservations are sold at the following times only: Mon - Sat 08:00 - 20:00 and Sun 09:00 - 20:00
Parking
- Car Park: Multi Storey Car Park
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: Toilets are located on Station Platforms and in The Brunel Arcade building
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Front of station, underground short stay car park and long stay car park.
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transport options for Reading
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the North side of the station
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotel
Lost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 10:45 Saturday - Sunday Closed
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Bike Parking
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transport options for Reading West
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Towards Reading: Bus Stop on Oxford Road under Railway Bridge. Heading away from Reading Bus Stop on Oxford Road, outside McDonalds.
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityThe major train station for arrivals in Southampton is Southampton Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Southampton Central for your journey to Southampton from Reading.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:40 - 20:45 Saturday 06:00 - 20:45 Sunday 06:30 - 20:45
Parking
- Car Park: Premium-downside
Taxis
- Taxi: Yes outside Platform 4 exit
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step-free category A Station - This station has step-free access to all platforms. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located in the Waiting Rooms on Platforms 1 and 4. The National key toilets are located on Platforms 1 and 4; these toilets are operated by a radar key. A radar key is available from station staff upon request. A 'National Key Scheme' key [RADAR] can be purchased by contacting the following. Address: 12 City Forum, 250 City Road, London, EC1V 8AF. Tel: 020 7250 3222. Minicom: 020 7250 4119. Fax: 020 7250 0212. Email: [email protected]
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: All platforms. Waiting rooms are heated and seating complies with Code of Practice.
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Platform 1 - 200 spaces Platform 4 - 44 spaces Outside Platform 4 entrance - 4 spaces Outside Platform 1 entrance - A new bike hut with 140 two tier spaces
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Southampton Central
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement bus service goes from the north side (Blechynden Terrace) during engineering works. Overnight onward transport goes from the South side (West Quay side)
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:45 - 20:00 Saturday 05:45 - 20:00 Sunday 07:45 - 20:10
Distance to city center
5 kmParking
- Car Park: Upside and Multi-Storey
Taxis
- Taxi: Yes
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step-free category A Station - This station has step-free access to all platforms. Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located in the Waiting Area on Platform 1. The National key toilets are located in the Waiting Area on Platform 1; these toilets are operated by a radar key. A radar key is available from station staff upon request. A 'National Key Scheme' key [RADAR] can be purchased by contacting the following. Address: 12 City Forum, 250 City Road, London, EC1V 8AF. Tel: 020 7250 3222. Minicom: 020 7250 4119. Fax: 020 7250 0212. Email: [email protected]
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Inside booking hall.
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Car park and platform 2
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Southampton Airport Parkway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Through Journeys: Station Forecourt Bus Stop off Wide Lane (A335) Terminating Journeys: Car Park at Eastleigh end, off Wide Lane (A335)
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 07:00 - 10:45 Saturday Closed Sunday Closed
Distance to city center
2 kmBike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Platforms 1 & 4
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transport options for St Denys
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Belmont Road/Junction with Osborne Road Setting Down only journeys - stop by traffic lights (Thomas Lewis Way/Duke Street)
Most popular train connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Southampton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Southampton and Reading
Most popular train connections to Southampton
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