Southampton to Reading train with CrossCountry

Wed 08 Jul
+ Add return
CrossCountry
South Western Railway
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
South Western Railway
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Southampton to Reading

Showing times and prices for 08 Jul

Cheapest price

£9

Average price

£12

Fastest journey

53 m

Average duration

53 m

Trains per day

3

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 £12 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £9.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Southampton for Reading every day 3 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 53 m .

The slowest trains will take 53 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.

  • CrossCountry
    9:150h53
    Southampton
    10:08Reading
    £91One-way
    0 changes
  • CrossCountry
    10:150h53
    Southampton
    11:08Reading
    £101One-way
    0 changes
  • CrossCountry
    5:150h53
    Southampton
    6:08Reading
    £181One-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 £7. 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 £7, and a coach costs an average of £21.

Distance: 68 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£18

Average Price

Cheapest

£52

Average Price

1h 27m

Average total duration

Fastest

57m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 52m

Average total duration

2h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

National Express

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 tomorrow, Wednesday 8 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
CrossCountry5:15 Southampton
0h53
6:08 Reading0 changesdirect
CrossCountry9:15 Southampton
0h53
10:08 Reading0 changesdirect
CrossCountry10:15 Southampton
0h53
11:08 Reading0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

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.

Wed
08 Jul
Thu
09 Jul
Fri
10 Jul
Sat
11 Jul
Sun
12 Jul
Mon
13 Jul
Tue
14 Jul

Why should you book Southampton to Reading trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as South Western Railway, Great Western Railway, Cross Country and more offer trains services from Southampton to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Reading.

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 South Western Railway, Great Western Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Reading.
  • 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.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Southampton to Reading.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway, Great Western Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Reading.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Southampton to Reading.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Southampton to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Southampton to Reading run on average 7 times per day, taking around 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £7 if you book in advance.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:45, the last at 23:41. The fastest train covers the 68 km distance in 51m.

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
£7
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
51m
First train
4:45
Last train
23:41
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
63 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

Train companies: CrossCountry, South Western Railway, Great Western Railway, Cross Country from Southampton to Reading trainsCrossCountry, South Western Railway, Great Western Railway, Cross Country trains will get you between Southampton and Reading from £7. 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
51m
Cheapest Price
£7
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 4m
Cheapest Price
£9
South Western Railway frequency
7 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 Railway

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 Railway frequency
4 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
£54
Cross Country frequency
12 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.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Southampton to Reading can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £7, while the average price tends to be around £18.
The train journey from Southampton to Reading covers a distance of 68 km and takes approximately 51m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Southampton to Reading is 68 km.
The first train from Southampton to Reading leaves at 4:45.
The last train from Southampton to Reading departs at 23:41.
Trains from Southampton to Reading run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Southampton to Reading.
Yes, there is a direct train between Southampton and Reading. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by Cross Country.
To get from Southampton to Reading, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Southampton to Reading.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Reading is Southampton Central (SOU), and it arrives at Reading station (RDG).
The cheapest way to get from Southampton to Reading is by train, costing approximately £7.
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 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 51m each way, with trains running 6 times per day over a distance of 68 km.
To fully explore Reading's attractions, two to three days are ideal.
Yes, you can take the train from Southampton to Reading.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Southampton and Reading

Most Southampton to Reading trains use the Southampton Central to Reading station pair, with some services arriving at Reading West. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Southampton
Arrival train stations in Reading

Which Southampton station do trains to Reading leave from?

Trains from Southampton to Reading leave from Southampton Central. The station is 1 km from Southampton city centre at Southampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL.
Southampton CentralSouthampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL+44 345 600 0650WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Southampton Central from Southampton city centre

BusX4, X5 · 5m · £2 · every ~20 min

Southampton Central train station facilities and services

Southampton Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Southampton Central.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Central. ATMs are available at Southampton Central.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Southampton Central.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Southampton Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Southampton Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Central: 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.

Southampton Airport ParkwaySouthampton Airport Parkway station, Wide Lane, Southampton, Hampshire, SO18 2HW+44 345 600 0650WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Southampton Airport Parkway from Southampton city centre

Southampton Airport Parkway is 5 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainSalisbury - Romsey, Weymouth - London Waterloo, Bournemouth - Winchester, Poole - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - London Waterloo, Weymouth - Woking, Bournemouth - Basingstoke, Poole - Winchester, Southampton Central - Basingstoke, Bournemouth - London Waterloo, Poole - Eastleigh, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Romsey - Romsey, Southampton Central - Woking, Salisbury - Salisbury, Salisbury - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Romsey · 10m · £3 · every ~8 min
BusU1a, U1e · 34m · £2 · every ~21 min
U1a, U1e · 40m · £2 · every ~37 min

Southampton Airport Parkway train station facilities and services

Southampton Airport Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Airport Parkway. ATMs are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Southampton Airport Parkway.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Airport Parkway: 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.

SwaythlingSwaythling station, Wessex Lane, Swaythling, Hampshire, SO18 2LB+44 345 600 0650WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Swaythling from Southampton city centre

Swaythling is 4 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainSouthampton Central - London Waterloo, Salisbury - Romsey, Romsey - Romsey, Salisbury - Salisbury, Bournemouth - Basingstoke, Southampton Central - Basingstoke, Bournemouth - Winchester, Southampton Central - Woking, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Salisbury - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Romsey · 7m · £2 · every ~3 min
BusU6h · 22m · £2 · every ~11 min
2 · 28m · £4 · every ~22 min
U1a, U1e · 30m · £2 · every ~21 min
U1a, U1e · 33m · £2 · every ~37 min

Swaythling train station facilities and services

Swaythling has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Swaythling.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Swaythling.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Swaythling.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Swaythling: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Swaythling: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Swaythling: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step-free category B station - This station has no step-free access to Platform 1 (for trains towards Eastleigh/ London Waterloo). There is level access to Platform 2 (for trains towards Southampton Central). 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, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

More options for your journey from Southampton to Reading

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrain Times to Reading Southampton to Reading train

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