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The cheapest and fastest trains from Southampton to Reading
Showing times and prices for 08 Jan
Cheapest price
£12
Average price
£21
Fastest journey
51 m
Average duration
53 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
68 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Southampton to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Reading will cost around £21 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £12.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Southampton for Reading every day 5 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 53 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 51 m .
The slowest trains will take 55 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.
04:150h51
Southampton05:06Reading
£121One-way
0 changes
19:150h53
Southampton20:08Reading
£231One-way
0 changes
05:150h53
Southampton06:08Reading
£231One-way
0 changes
08:150h55
Southampton09:10Reading
£231One-way
0 changes
11:150h51
Southampton12:06Reading
£251One-way
0 changes
04:150h51
Southampton05:06Reading
£121One-way
0 changes
11:150h51
Southampton12:06Reading
£251One-way
0 changes
05:150h53
Southampton06:08Reading
£231One-way
0 changes
19:150h53
Southampton20:08Reading
£231One-way
0 changes
08:150h55
Southampton09:10Reading
£231One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Southampton to Reading
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 57m. 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 £12, and a coach costs an average of £43.
Distance: 68 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£22 Average Price Cheapest | £52 Average Price |
1h 27m Average total duration Fastest 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 54m Average total duration 2h 24m 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
Southampton to Reading train times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Reading trains for today, Wednesday 7 January. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 01:55
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04:15 Southampton | 0h51 | 05:06 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 05:15 Southampton | 0h53 | 06:08 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 07:15 Southampton | 0h56 | 08:11 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 08:15 Southampton | 0h55 | 09:10 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 17:15 Southampton | 0h52 | 18:07 Reading | 0 changesdirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Reading 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.
Thu
08 Jan
08 Jan
Fri
09 Jan
09 Jan
Sat
10 Jan
10 Jan
Sun
11 Jan
11 Jan
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12 Jan
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Southampton to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Southampton to Reading run on average 6 times per day, taking around 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £12 if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:32, the last at 23:41. The fastest train covers the 68 km distance in 50m.
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 57m |
Cheapest ticket price £12 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 50m |
First train 04:32 |
Last train 23:41 |
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, Great Western Rail, Cross Country from Southampton to Reading trainsCrossCountry, South Western Railway, Great Western Rail, Cross Country trains will get you between Southampton and Reading from £12. 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
50m
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 2m
Cheapest Price
£8
South Western Railway frequency
2 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
Great Western Rail
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Great Western Rail frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
50m
Cheapest Price
£58
Cross Country frequency
11 a day
FAQs: Southampton to Reading train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton to Reading 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 Reading, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Southampton to Reading can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £12, while the average price tends to be around £22.
To fully explore Reading's attractions, two to three days are ideal.
The train journey from Southampton to Reading offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through the Hampshire and Berkshire countryside, with views of fields, small towns, and occasional glimpses of the River Itchen.
Yes, a day trip from Southampton to Reading is feasible as the journey takes 50m each way, with trains running 6 times per day over a distance of 68 km.
The cheapest way to get from Southampton to Reading is by train, costing approximately £12.
Booking trains from Southampton to Reading in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train distance from Southampton to Reading is 68 km.
The last train from Southampton to Reading departs at 23:41.
The train journey from Southampton to Reading covers a distance of 68 km and takes approximately 50m. Trains run 6 per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Southampton and Reading. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Reading is Southampton Central (SOU), and it arrives at Reading station (RDG).
There is no night train service from Southampton to Reading.
The first train from Southampton to Reading leaves at 4:32.
Trains from Southampton to Reading run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Southampton to Reading.
Yes, you can take the train from Southampton to Reading.
To get from Southampton to Reading, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Southampton and Reading
Southampton
Reading
The major train station for departures in Southampton is Southampton Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Southampton Central for your trip from Southampton to Reading.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car 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)
The major train station for arrivals in Reading is Reading. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Reading for your journey to Reading from Southampton.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWC
HotelLoungeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar 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
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost 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
AccessibilityMost popular train connections from Southampton
More options for your journey from Southampton to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Southampton
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