Birmingham to Reading bus with Megabus

Tue, Aug 04
+ Add return
Megabus
National Express
NX West Midlands
FlixBus
Alsa
2,000+ travel companies
Megabus
National Express
NX West Midlands
FlixBus
Alsa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Birmingham to Reading

Showing times and prices for Aug 04

Cheapest price

lei253

Average price

lei270

Fastest journey

4 h 7 m

Average duration

4 h 13 m

Buses per day

12

Distance

131 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Birmingham to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Birmingham to Reading will cost around lei270 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only lei253.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Birmingham to Reading without transferring at least once.

  • National ExpressNX210 · RRRA1
    12:30 AM4h41
    Birmingham, Coach Station
    5:11 AMReading, Blagrave Street
    lei2531One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX210 · RRRA1
    4:55 AM4h11
    Birmingham, Coach Station
    9:06 AMReading, Blagrave Street
    lei2711One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX210 · RRRA1
    11:00 AM4h28
    Birmingham, Coach Station
    3:28 PMReading, Blagrave Street
    lei2711One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX210 · RRRA1
    12:25 PM4h24
    Birmingham, Coach Station
    4:49 PMReading, Blagrave Street
    lei2711One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX210 · RRRA1
    5:45 PM4h31
    Birmingham, Coach Station
    10:16 PMReading, Blagrave Street
    lei2711One-way
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Birmingham to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Birmingham to Reading run on average 15 times per day, taking around 2h 39m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at lei75 if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 81 miles (131 km) distance in 3h 40m.

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
81 miles (131 km)
Average bus duration
2h 39m
Cheapest ticket price
lei75
Buses per day
15
Fastest bus
3h 40m
First bus
12:15 AM
Last bus
11:50 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
35 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

Birmingham to Reading Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:30AM
Arrival Time
05:10AM
Duration
4h40
Departure days
Tue, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
lei225
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:50AM
Arrival Time
05:11AM
Duration
4h21
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
lei247
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:00AM
Arrival Time
05:41AM
Duration
3h41
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
lei247
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:05AM
Arrival Time
06:10AM
Duration
4h05
Departure days
Tue, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
lei225
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:40AM
Arrival Time
07:40AM
Duration
4h00
Departure days
Tue, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
lei225
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:55AM
Arrival Time
09:06AM
Duration
4h11
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
lei271
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:10AM
Arrival Time
09:12AM
Duration
4h02
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
lei225
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:25AM
Arrival Time
10:45AM
Duration
4h20
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
lei271
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:35AM
Arrival Time
10:44AM
Duration
4h09
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
lei232
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:00AM
Arrival Time
01:05PM
Duration
6h05
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
lei84
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:45AM
Arrival Time
12:05PM
Duration
4h20
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
lei271
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:55AM
Arrival Time
12:17PM
Duration
4h22
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
lei225
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:00AM
Arrival Time
01:17PM
Duration
4h17
Departure days
Tue, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
lei225
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:00AM
Arrival Time
03:16PM
Duration
4h16
Departure days
Tue, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
lei225
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:25PM
Arrival Time
04:45PM
Duration
4h20
Departure days
Tue, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
lei225
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:20PM
Arrival Time
06:43PM
Duration
4h23
Departure days
Tue, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
lei232
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:45PM
Arrival Time
06:46PM
Duration
4h01
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
lei253
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:05PM
Arrival Time
07:47PM
Duration
4h42
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
lei432
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:05PM
Arrival Time
08:47PM
Duration
4h42
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
lei271
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:15PM
Arrival Time
08:41PM
Duration
4h26
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
lei225
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:30PM
Arrival Time
08:47PM
Duration
4h17
Departure days
Mon, Fri
Cheapest price
lei270
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:45PM
Arrival Time
09:16PM
Duration
4h31
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
lei501
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:15PM
Arrival Time
11:15PM
Duration
6h00
Departure days
Mon, Fri
Cheapest price
lei300
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:45PM
Arrival Time
12:15AM
Duration
6h30
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
lei267
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:00PM
Arrival Time
10:11PM
Duration
4h11
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
lei225
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:15PM
Arrival Time
12:15AM
Duration
6h00
Departure days
Mon, Fri
Cheapest price
lei328
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:30PM
Arrival Time
04:11AM
Duration
7h41
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
lei397
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:30PM
Arrival Time
04:11AM
Duration
4h41
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
lei324

Live departures

Birmingham to Reading bus times

The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Reading buses for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National Express4:30 PM Birmingham
4h17
8:47 PM Reading0 transfersDirect
National Express5:15 PM Birmingham
6h00
11:15 PM Reading0 transfersDirect
National Express6:15 PM Birmingham
6h00
12:15 AM Reading0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, August 4
National ExpressNX210 · RRRA112:30 AM Birmingham, Coach Station
4h41
5:11 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX210 · RRRA12:05 AM Birmingham, Coach Station
4h07
6:12 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX210 · RRRA13:40 AM Birmingham, Coach Station
4h07
7:47 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX210 · RRRA14:55 AM Birmingham, Coach Station
4h11
9:06 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX210 · RRRA16:25 AM Birmingham, Coach Station
4h20
10:45 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX210 · RRRA17:45 AM Birmingham, Coach Station
4h20
12:05 PM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Birmingham to Reading buses with Omio?

Megabus as well as National Express, NX West Midlands, FlixBus and more offer buses services from Birmingham to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Birmingham to Reading.

Why book with Omio vs Megabus?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Megabus, but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express, NX West Midlands or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham 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 Megabus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Birmingham to Reading.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of National Express, NX West Midlands or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Reading.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Birmingham to Reading.

Bus providers: Megabus, National Express, NX West Midlands, FlixBus from Birmingham to ReadingYou can travel by bus between Birmingham to Reading with Megabus, National Express, NX West Midlands, FlixBus for as low as lei75. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 5m
Cheapest Price
lei75
FlixBus frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.

National Express

About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 40m
Cheapest Price
lei247
National Express frequency
15 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.

Megabus

About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 23m
Cheapest Price
lei112
Megabus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.

NX West Midlands

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 56m
Cheapest Price
lei374
NX West Midlands frequency
7 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

Reading Museum

Reading's main museum, famed for the Bayeux Tapestry replica, local history, Huntley & Palmers displays, and Abbey galleries.

  • Must visit

The Museum of English Rural Life

Modern art gallery in the civic centre showing changing exhibitions by regional and national artists in a central, accessible space.

  • Must visit

The Museum of English Rural Life

University museum with strong agriculture, countryside, and design collections. Popular for families and one of Reading's standout visits.

Pound sterling (£)

Reading is pricier than many UK towns. Hotels and dining are above average, but rail and local buses are manageable for most 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

Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10% for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up or tipped 10%. Cafes usually do not require tipping.

FAQs: Bus from Birmingham to Reading

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham to Reading by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Reading, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Birmingham to Reading can start from as little as lei75 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Birmingham to Reading is lei310 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Birmingham to Reading is 3h 40m to travel the 81 miles (131 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Birmingham to Reading leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Birmingham to Reading leaves at 11:50 PM.
There are 15 buses a day from Birmingham to Reading which require at least one change with Megabus, National Express, NX West Midlands, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Birmingham to Reading, you can count on Megabus, National Express, NX West Midlands, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Reading. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Birmingham and Reading and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Birmingham , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Birmingham, Coach Station, Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway, Birmingham, Comet Road (Airport), Birmingham, Birmingham, Hagley Road West, Coventry, Pool Meadow Bus Station . When arriving in Reading , you can end your journey in bus stations like Reading, Blagrave Street, Three Mile Cross, Mereoak Lane - Park & Ride .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Birmingham, Coach Station, which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Reading, Blagrave Street, located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Birmingham and Reading including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Birmingham to Reading for bus company Megabus, National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Birmingham to Reading:
  • Megabus
    • Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Birmingham to Reading depends on the bus companies:
  • Megabus
    • Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
  • National Express
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
  • FlixBus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Birmingham to Reading.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Birmingham to Reading:
  • Megabus
    • One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
  • National Express
    • Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
  • FlixBus
    • One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Birmingham to Reading:
  • Megabus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Birmingham to Reading. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Birmingham to Reading with the following bus company: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Birmingham to Reading with the following bus company: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Birmingham to Reading with the following bus company: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Reading, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Common scams include overcharging by taxis and unofficial tour guides. Staying vigilant in busy spots and using licensed services helps ensure safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Birmingham to Reading

Most Birmingham to Reading buses use the Birmingham, Coach Station to Reading, Blagrave Street station pair. Use this guide to compare Birmingham and Reading bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Birmingham
Arrival bus stations in Reading

Which Birmingham station do buses to Reading leave from?

Buses from Birmingham to Reading leave from Birmingham, Coach Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Birmingham city centre at Mill Lane, Digbeth, Birmingham, B5 6DD, United Kingdom.
Birmingham, Coach StationMill Lane, Digbeth, Birmingham, B5 6DD, United KingdomWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Birmingham, Coach Station from Birmingham city centre

Birmingham, Coach Station is 1 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus4, 97, 6, X2, 3, 97A, 2, 4A, 5, X1 · 4m · lei11 · every ~191 min
X2, 4A, X1, 2, 3, 6, 4, 5 · 13m · lei11 · every ~149 min

Birmingham, Coach Station bus station facilities and services

Birmingham, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Cafeteria and fast-food options inside the station

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Birmingham, Coach Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Birmingham, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham, Coach Station: Elevators, ramps.

Birmingham, Great Charles Street QueenswayBirmingham Great Charles Street Queensway, Great Charles Street Queensway 145, B3 3LT
City-centre transport

Getting to Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway from Birmingham city centre

Bus822, X8, 12, 24, 126, 13, 23, X10, 829, 9 · 2m · lei11 · every ~153 min
Birmingham, Comet Road (Airport)
City-centre transport

Getting to Birmingham, Comet Road (Airport) from Birmingham city centre

TrainRugeley Trent Valley - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - Coventry, Birmingham New Street - Northampton, Walsall - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Milton Keynes Central, Birmingham New Street - Rugby, Liverpool Lime Street - Coventry, Wolverhampton - Birmingham International, Liverpool Lime Street - Birmingham International · 14m · lei28 · every ~8 min
BusUk920, Uk025 · 25m · lei6
X1 · 27m · lei22 · every ~5 min
X1 · 29m · lei22 · every ~5 min
X12 · 1h 10m · lei22 · every ~8 min

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

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