- Must visit
Reading Museum
Reading’s main museum explores local history, archaeology, and art. Best known for the Victorian copy of the Bayeux Tapestry.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Stafford to Reading
Showing times and prices for 04 Aug
Cheapest price
£81
Average price
£81
Fastest journey
2 h 34 m
Average duration
2 h 34 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
169 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Stafford to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Stafford to Reading will cost around £81 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £81.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Stafford for Reading every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 169 km distance in an average of 2 h 34 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 34 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 34 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.
17:142h34Stafford19:48Reading£811One-way0 changes
- 17:142h34Stafford19:48Reading£811One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Stafford to Reading
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Stafford to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £33. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 9m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £33, and a train costs an average of £44.
Distance: 169 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£84 Average Price | £33 Average Price Cheapest |
2h 39m Average total duration Fastest 2h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 5m Average total duration 8h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Stafford to Reading train times
The table below shows live departures for Stafford to Reading trains for today, Monday 3 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 9:21 Stafford | 2h19 | 11:40 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:22 Stafford | 2h14 | 12:36 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
 | 10:42 Stafford | 2h27 | 13:09 Reading | 1 change | |
| 11:21 Stafford | 2h20 | 13:41 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 12:22 Stafford | 2h19 | 14:41 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 12:39 Stafford | 2h27 | 15:06 Reading | 1 change | |
| 13:21 Stafford | 2h20 | 15:41 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 14:21 Stafford | 2h19 | 16:40 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 14:40 Stafford | 2h34 | 17:14 Reading | 1 change | |
| 15:22 Stafford | 2h19 | 17:41 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 16:21 Stafford | 2h20 | 18:41 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 16:39 Stafford | 2h26 | 19:05 Reading | 1 change | |
| 17:21 Stafford | 2h20 | 19:41 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 17:39 Stafford | 2h29 | 20:08 Reading | 1 change | |
| 18:21 Stafford | 2h22 | 20:43 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 19:22 Stafford | 2h17 | 21:39 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 20:21 Stafford | 2h17 | 22:38 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 21:21 Stafford | 2h17 | 23:38 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 23:00 Stafford | 8h44 | 7:44 Reading | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Stafford 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.
Tue
04 Aug
04 Aug
Wed
05 Aug
05 Aug
Thu
06 Aug
06 Aug
Fri
07 Aug
07 Aug
Sat
08 Aug
08 Aug
Sun
09 Aug
09 Aug
Mon
10 Aug
10 Aug
Why should you book Stafford to Reading trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast, Cross Country, West Midlands Trains and more offer trains services from Stafford to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Stafford 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 Avanti West Coast, Cross Country or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Stafford 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 Stafford to Reading.
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, Cross Country or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Stafford to Reading.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Stafford to Reading.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Stafford to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Stafford to Reading run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £44 but you can travel from only £33 by coach.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:24, the last at 22:28. The fastest train covers the 169 km distance in 2h 15m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £33
Distance 169 km |
Average train duration 2h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price £44 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 15m |
First train 2:24 |
Last train 22:28 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 2 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £33
Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Cross Country, West Midlands Trains from Stafford to Reading trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Cross Country, West Midlands Trains trains will get you between Stafford and Reading from £33. 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
2h 15m
Cheapest Price
£44
CrossCountry frequency
4 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 Duration
2h 34m
Cheapest Price
£80
Avanti West Coast frequency
5 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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 14m
Cheapest Price
£135
Cross Country frequency
11 a day
West Midlands Trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 26m
West Midlands Trains frequency
5 a day
Complete guide to Reading
Things to do in Reading
Discover the best of Reading — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Reading trip today.
- Must visit
The Museum of English Rural Life
Small museum beside the abbey ruins with exhibits on Reading’s medieval abbey. Good for context before walking the historic quarter.
- Recommended
Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology
University museum covering farming, countryside life, and design. Engaging displays make it a distinctive and family-friendly visit.
- Must visit
Forbury Gardens
Large riverside park with formal gardens, open lawns, and abbey remains. Ideal for relaxing walks close to the town centre.
- Recommended
Broad Street
Traffic-free shopping street at the heart of Reading. A practical and lively route linking major shops, historic lanes, and public spaces.
- Recommended
Thames Side Promenade
Riverside walking area along the Thames near Caversham Bridge. Visit for benches, water views, and an easy stroll near the centre.
Berkshire pork sausages
Berkshire pork sausages are a long-standing county staple, prized for well-seasoned local pork and often served with mash in traditional pubs.
- Vegetarian
Spotted dick
Spotted dick is a classic steamed suet pudding with dried fruit, commonly served with custard and strongly associated with traditional English cooking.
- Vegetarian
Summer pudding
Summer pudding is a Berkshire favourite in berry season, made by lining bread with soft fruit and juice for a bright, old-fashioned local dessert.
L'Ortolan
Refined modern British dining in elegant surroundings, known for carefully plated tasting-style dishes and polished service.
The Cunning Man
Traditional pub by the Thames serving British classics, Sunday roasts and local drinks in a relaxed historic setting.
Miller & Carter Oracle
Popular central Reading restaurant specialising in well-cooked steaks, grills and hearty sides in a lively contemporary space.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England: hotels are often cheaper than London, but dining, drinks and rail fares still add up for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip about 10% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional.
Reading Buses
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £5.90
To the city centre
Reading Station -> Reading Station, Reading
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Contactless payment works on all Reading Buses services, and daily charges are capped automatically at the day ticket rate.
- For multi-operator travel, the Reading All-Bus Day ticket covers Reading Buses and selected other local operators.
FAQs: Stafford to Reading train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Stafford 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 Stafford to Reading can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £44, while the average price tends to be around £84.
The train journey from Stafford to Reading covers a distance of 169 km and takes approximately 2h 15m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Stafford to Reading is 169 km.
The first train from Stafford to Reading leaves at 2:24.
The last train from Stafford to Reading departs at 22:28.
Trains from Stafford to Reading run approximately 8 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Stafford to Reading.
Yes, there is a direct train between Stafford and Reading. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
To get from Stafford to Reading, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Stafford to Reading.
The train station in Stafford that goes to Reading is Stafford station (STA), and it arrives at Reading station (RDG).
The cheapest way to get from Stafford to Reading is by coach, costing approximately £33.
Booking trains from Stafford 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 Stafford to Reading offers a varied landscape, featuring views of the English countryside, charming towns, and glimpses of the Chiltern Hills, providing a pleasant and scenic experience.
A day trip from Stafford to Reading is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 15m. Trains run 6 times per day for this 169 km route.
To fully explore Reading's attractions, two to three days are ideal.
Yes, you can take the train from Stafford to Reading.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Stafford and Reading
Most Stafford to Reading trains use the Stafford to Reading station pair. Use this guide to compare Stafford and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Stafford
Arrival train stations in Reading
Which Stafford station do trains to Reading leave from?
Trains from Stafford to Reading leave from Stafford. The station is from Stafford city centre at Stafford station, Station Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2AA.
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.
Which Reading station do trains from Stafford arrive at?
Trains from Stafford to Reading arrive at Reading. Reading is from Reading city centre.
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.
More options for your journey from Stafford to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Stafford
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