- Recommended
Ancient High House
Historic townhouse museum with changing exhibitions on Stafford’s past, period rooms and displays on local people and trade.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Stafford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 13 Oct
Cheapest price on 13 Oct
£133
Average ticket price on 13 Oct
£135
Fastest journey on 13 Oct
2 h 10 m
Average journey duration on 13 Oct
2 h 15 m
Trains on 13 Oct
10
Distance
169 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Stafford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Stafford will cost around £135 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £133.
Fast trains
On Tue 13 Oct, we found 10 trains from Reading to Stafford, including 4 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 169 km distance in an average of 2 h 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 10 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 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.
6:152h16Reading8:31Stafford£1331One-way0 changes- 7:152h17Reading9:32Stafford£1331One-way0 changes
- 8:152h16Reading10:31Stafford£1331One-way0 changes
- 9:152h17Reading11:32Stafford£1331One-way0 changes
- 6:152h16Reading8:31Stafford£1361One-way1 change
- 8:512h10Reading11:01Stafford£1361One-way1 change
- 6:152h16Reading8:31Stafford£1361One-way1 change
- 6:152h16Reading8:31Stafford£1331One-way0 changes
- 6:452h16Reading9:01Stafford£1361One-way1 change
- 8:152h16Reading10:31Stafford£1361One-way1 change
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Stafford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Stafford run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £49 if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:35, the last at 22:28. The fastest train covers the 169 km distance in 1h 53m.
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 169 km |
Average train duration 2h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price £49 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 1h 53m |
First train 4:35 |
Last train 22:28 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 Stafford train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Stafford trains for tomorrow, Tuesday 13 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:15 Reading | 2h16 | 8:31 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 6:15 Reading | 2h16 | 8:31 Stafford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 6:45 Reading | 2h16 | 9:01 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 7:15 Reading | 2h17 | 9:32 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 7:15 Reading | 2h17 | 9:32 Stafford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:15 Reading | 2h16 | 10:31 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 8:15 Reading | 2h16 | 10:31 Stafford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:51 Reading | 2h10 | 11:01 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 9:15 Reading | 2h17 | 11:32 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 9:15 Reading | 2h17 | 11:32 Stafford | 0 changesdirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Reading to Stafford trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Reading to Stafford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Stafford.
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 to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Stafford.
- 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 Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Stafford.
Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast from Reading to Stafford trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Reading and Stafford from £49. 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 CrossCountry Duration
1h 59m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£49
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
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
1h 53m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£78
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
Complete guide to Stafford
Things to do in Stafford
Discover the best of Stafford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Stafford trip today.
- Recommended
Shire Hall Gallery
Town-centre art space in the Shire Hall showing temporary exhibitions, contemporary work and community-focused displays.
Lock House Museum
Small heritage museum in a restored lock cottage, explaining the county’s waterways through artefacts, models and canal history.
- Recommended
Victoria Park
Riverside park with open lawns, sports facilities, family space and a pleasant walk close to the centre.
- Recommended
Market Square
Historic market square framed by civic buildings and shops, often used for events and an easy base for exploring Stafford.
- Recommended
Stafford Castle Meadows
Open green space beside the castle, good for short walks and views towards the ruins and surrounding countryside.
Staffordshire Oatcake with Cheese and Bacon
A savoury Staffordshire oatcake filled with melted cheese and bacon. It is a local staple from the Potteries and widely eaten across Staffordshire.
Staffordshire Oatcake
A plain Staffordshire oatcake served with butter or cheese. This soft oat pancake is one of the county’s most recognisable traditional foods.
- Vegetarian
Staffordshire Tea Loaf
A rich fruit loaf made with tea-soaked dried fruit and spices, then sliced and spread with butter. It is a long-standing tea-time favourite in Staffordshire.
Joxer Brasserie
Popular Turkish restaurant with grilled meats, meze and warm service. Lively yet comfortable for casual lunches and dinners.
The Dog House
Stylish restaurant in Stafford town centre serving modern British dishes, steaks and grills in a relaxed, polished setting.
The Soup Kitchen
Traditional pub and dining room known for British classics, cask ales and a historic atmosphere near Stafford town centre.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than in London, while rail travel and central pub meals can still add up for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up in taxis; cafés usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
MyStaffs
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £8.50
To the city centre
Stafford Railway Station -> Stafford Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10–15 min
- The Knot day ticket gives unlimited same-day travel on most Staffordshire bus operators for £8.50. Check your operator is included before you buy.
- Stafford Railway Station has a taxi rank, and National Rail states the town centre is about a 10–15 min walk away.
Best day trips from Stafford by train
The most popular day trips by train from Stafford are Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Stoke-on-Trent and Wolverhampton. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Stafford on Omio.
Day trip from Stafford to Birmingham by train
Why visit Birmingham for the day?
Birmingham is known for its industrial past, canal network and diverse food scene. It combines major shopping and cultural landmarks with lively neighbourhoods shaped by manufacturing, music and modern city life.
How to get from Stafford to Birmingham by train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:31, the last at 23:28. The fastest train covers the 39 km distance in 30m.
Day trip from Stafford to Manchester by train
Why visit Manchester for the day?
Manchester is known for its industrial heritage, influential music and deep football culture. Red-brick canalside areas, major museums and lively nightlife give it an energetic northern character.
How to get from Stafford to Manchester by train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:40, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 76 km distance in 51m.
Day trip from Stafford to Liverpool by train
Why visit Liverpool for the day?
Liverpool is known for The Beatles, football and a waterfront shaped by its maritime past. Its grand docks, museums and lively city centre give it a proud, creative character.
How to get from Stafford to Liverpool by train?
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:25, the last at 23:52. The fastest train covers the 89 km distance in 55m.
Day trip from Stafford to Stoke-on-Trent by train
Why visit Stoke-on-Trent for the day?
Stoke-on-Trent is a Staffordshire city known as The Potteries for its long ceramics heritage. Its six-town layout, bottle kilns and pottery museums give it a practical, industrial character.
How to get from Stafford to Stoke-on-Trent by train?
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:10, the last at 23:19. The fastest train covers the 23 km distance in 15m.
Day trip from Stafford to Wolverhampton by train
Why visit Wolverhampton for the day?
Wolverhampton is a West Midlands city known for its industrial heritage, football culture and diverse communities. Historic buildings, busy markets and venues such as the Grand Theatre give it a direct, urban character.
How to get from Stafford to Wolverhampton by train?
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:12, the last at 23:43. The fastest train covers the 24 km distance in 13m.
FAQs: Reading to Stafford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Stafford 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 Stafford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Reading to Stafford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £49, while the average price tends to be around £82.
The train journey from Reading to Stafford covers a distance of 169 km and takes approximately 1h 53m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Reading to Stafford is 169 km.
The first train from Reading to Stafford leaves at 4:35.
The last train from Reading to Stafford departs at 22:28.
Trains from Reading to Stafford run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Reading to Stafford.
Yes, there is a direct train between Reading and Stafford. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by CrossCountry.
There is no night train service from Reading to Stafford.
The train station in Reading that goes to Stafford is Reading station (RDG), and it arrives at Stafford station (STA).
Booking trains from Reading to Stafford 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 Stafford offers a mix of urban and rural views, with scenic countryside landscapes, historic towns, and glimpses of the Chiltern Hills, making parts of the trip visually appealing.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Stafford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Reading and Stafford
Most Reading to Stafford trains use the Reading to Stafford station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Stafford 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 Stafford
Which Reading station do trains to Stafford leave from?
Trains from Reading to Stafford 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 Stafford station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Stafford arrive at Stafford. Stafford is from Stafford city centre.
StaffordStafford station, Station Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2AA
City-centre transport
Getting to Stafford from Stafford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesRail replacement coach services can be found at the front of the station on the left hand side.
Stafford train station facilities and services
Stafford has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Stafford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Stafford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Stafford. 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 Stafford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Stafford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Stafford: 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 Stafford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Stafford and Reading
Most popular train connections to Stafford
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