- Recommended
Southend Central Museum and Planetarium
Museum beside Prittlewell Priory covering local archaeology, social history and natural history. A strong introduction to Southend and Essex.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Southend-on-Sea
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Southend-on-Sea run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £29 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 01:15, the last at 23:03. The fastest train covers the 117 km distance in 1h 30m.
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 117 km |
Average train duration 1h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price £29 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 1h 30m |
First train 1:15 |
Last train 23:03 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Reading to Southend-on-Sea trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Reading to Southend-on-Sea.
The cost of a train ticket from Reading to Southend-on-Sea can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £29, while the average price tends to be around £37.
The train journey from Reading to Southend-on-Sea covers a distance of 117 km and takes approximately 1h 30m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Reading to Southend-on-Sea is 117 km.
The first train from Reading to Southend-on-Sea leaves at 1:15.
The last train from Reading to Southend-on-Sea departs at 23:03.
Trains from Reading to Southend-on-Sea run approximately 7 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Southend-on-Sea.
Live departures
Reading to Southend-on-Sea train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Southend-on-Sea trains for today, Friday 30 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 C37651+ P66780 | On time 11:59 Reading station (RDG) | 2h33 | 14:32 Southend Victoria (SOV) | 1 change | |
 W35365+C37621+ Y64106 | Delayed 12:00 Reading station (RDG) | 2h10 | 14:14 14:14Southend Central (SOC) | 2 changes | |
W34562+C38030+Y64106+ Tube from Whitechapel to London Fenchurch Street | On time 12:05 Reading station (RDG) | 2h05 | 14:10 Southend Central (SOC) | 3 changes | |
| C04697+G14901+C38047 | Delayed 13:20 12:10Reading station (RDG) | 2h05 | 14:15 Southend Victoria (SOV) | 2 changes | |
| W35125+C38054+Y64237+Tube from Whitechapel to London Fenchurch Street | On time 12:20 Reading station (RDG) | 2h08 | 14:28 Southend Central (SOC) | 3 changes | |
| P66780+G15044+C37660 | Delayed 13:33 12:23Reading station (RDG) | 2h09 | 14:32 Southend Victoria (SOV) | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Reading to Southend-on-Sea trains with Omio?
Greater Anglia as well as c2c or Elizabeth line offer trains services from Reading to Southend-on-Sea.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Southend-on-Sea.
Why book with Omio vs Greater Anglia?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greater Anglia, but also compare tickets for the likes of c2c or Elizabeth line to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Southend-on-Sea.
- 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?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of c2c or Elizabeth line to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Southend-on-Sea.
Train companies: Greater Anglia, Elizabeth line, c2c from Reading to Southend-on-Sea trainsGreater Anglia, Elizabeth line, c2c trains will get you between Reading and Southend-on-Sea from £29. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Greater Anglia
About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greater Anglia Duration
1h 32m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
£29
Greater Anglia frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone
c2c
About
c2c is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Fenchurch Street to destinations in East London and Essex, including Southend, Basildon, and Grays. c2c offers a range of train types, including the Class 357 Electrostar, Class 312 Electrostar, and Class 315 Electrostar. These trains are modern and comfortable, with air conditioning, power sockets, and free Wi-Fi. c2c also offers a range of ticket types, including Anytime, Off-Peak, and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include a café bar, toilets, and luggage storage. The most popular routes for c2c are London Fenchurch Street to Southend Central, London Fenchurch Street to Basildon, and London Fenchurch Street to Grays.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average c2c Duration
1h 30m
Cheapest c2c Price
£30
c2c frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar/bistro service available on most trains offering snacks, drinks, and light meals
Seat reservation
Seat reservations mandatory and included in ticket price for high-speed trains, optional for regional trains
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, service animals free
Quiet zone
Elizabeth line
About
Tfl Rail is a railway service operated by Transport for London in the United Kingdom. It operates on the Great Western Main Line and the Heathrow branch of the London Underground. The service runs from Paddington in London to Reading, Maidenhead, Slough, and Heathrow Airport. It also serves the towns of Taplow, Burnham, Twyford, and Hayes & Harlington. All trains are air-conditioned and feature onboard Wi-Fi, power sockets, and digital information screens. Tfl Rail offers a range of ticket types, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and Oyster cards. Oyster cards are the most popular ticket type, allowing passengers to pay for their journey with a single card. The most popular routes for Tfl Rail are Paddington to Reading, Paddington to Maidenhead, and Paddington to Heathrow Airport. These routes offer frequent services and provide passengers with a convenient way to travel between London and the surrounding areas.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Elizabeth line Duration
2h 2m
Cheapest Elizabeth line Price
£29
Elizabeth line frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available through TfL website or customer service
Refund
Full refund available for service cancellations
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
No dedicated dining car. Passengers can bring their own food and drinks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Step-free access at most stations, wheelchair spaces on trains, priority seating
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be leashed. Guide dogs welcome
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Reading and Southend-on-Sea
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Reading to Southend-on-Sea.
There is no night train service from Reading to Southend-on-Sea.
Complete guide to Southend-on-Sea
Things to do in Southend-on-Sea
Discover the best of Southend-on-Sea — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Southend-on-Sea trip today.
- Recommended
Prittlewell Priory
Historic house museum in Priory Park with restored rooms, monastic remains and displays on local life. Good for history and architecture.
Southend Pier Museum
Compact museum at the end of the pier exploring the pier’s engineering, railway and seaside heritage. Worth adding to a pier visit.
- Must visit
Southend Seafront
Popular beachfront promenade for walking, cycling and sea views, linking the pier, gardens and classic seaside attractions.
- Recommended
Old Leigh
Lively old fishing quarter with cobbled lanes, cockle sheds, pubs, small galleries and estuary views. Full of local character.
- Recommended
Priory Park
Large park with formal gardens, lake, play areas and the priory complex. A pleasant green space for walks near the centre.
Fish and chips
Freshly landed fish, usually cod or haddock, in batter with chips. A classic Essex seaside meal tied to Southend’s long pier and beachfront chippies.
- Gluten-free
Essex oysters
Briny native or rock oysters from the Thames Estuary area, traditionally eaten very fresh. They reflect the long shellfish heritage of the Essex coast.
Potted shrimps or local prawns
Sweet, delicate prawns from the nearby North Sea and estuary waters, often served simply with bread and butter. A long-standing local seafood favourite.
Food
Stylish restaurant in nearby Leigh-on-Sea focused on British seafood and seasonal cooking. Cosy, polished dining room with estuary character.
Osborne Bros
Historic seafront fish restaurant known for oysters, cockles and classic seafood. Traditional, no-frills atmosphere close to the beach.
The Peterboat
Popular seafood restaurant and fishmonger serving fresh local catch, shellfish and grilled fish. Smart but relaxed setting near the seafront.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside city. Dining and hotels cost less than London, but peak summer stays and seafront areas raise prices. Local buses and trains are standard UK-priced.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a basic meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafés and pubs do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £6.00
To the city centre
Chalkwell -> Southend Travel Centre
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless Tap&Cap works on First Bus services in Southend-on-Sea and caps fares automatically at the day ticket price.
- Southend bus single fares are generally covered by the £3 fare cap until the end of March 2027.
Plan your visit to Southend-on-Sea
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Southend-on-Sea.
The train journey from Reading to Southend-on-Sea passes through a variety of landscapes, including the Thames Valley and parts of the Essex countryside, offering views of rolling hills and rural scenery.
FAQs: Reading to Southend-on-Sea train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Booking trains from Reading to Southend-on-Sea in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Southend-on-Sea.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Reading and Southend-on-Sea
Most Reading to Southend-on-Sea trains use the Reading to Southend Victoria station pair, with some services arriving at Southend Central. Use this guide to compare Reading and Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea
Which Reading station do trains to Southend-on-Sea leave from?
Trains from Reading to Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Southend-on-Sea most often arrive at Southend Victoria. Some services arrive at Southend Central, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Southend-on-Sea arrival station.
Southend VictoriaSouthend Victoria station, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 6AZ
City-centre transport
Getting to Southend Victoria from Southend-on-Sea city centre
Bus25, 7, 20, 825, 827, 21S, 28, 21, 3, 26, 20S · 3m · £3 · every ~69 min
Southend Victoria train station facilities and services
Southend Victoria has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southend Victoria.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southend Victoria. ATMs are available at Southend Victoria.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southend Victoria. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, 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 Southend Victoria: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southend Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southend Victoria: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Taxi rank at front of station, Accessible ticket machines: There are 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: No.
Southend CentralSouthend Central station, Clifftown Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1AB+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Southend Central from Southend-on-Sea city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBus stops on Clifftown Road near The Last Public House
Southend Central train station facilities and services
Southend Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southend Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southend Central. ATMs are available at Southend Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southend Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03457 44 44 22, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southend Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southend Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southend Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Train stations for Reading to Southend-on-Sea
Check train stations information for Reading and Southend-on-Sea, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Reading that goes to Southend-on-Sea is Reading, and it arrives at Southend Victoria.
Most popular train connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Southend-on-Sea
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Southend-on-Sea and Reading
Most popular train connections to Southend-on-Sea
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