Bournemouth to Reading bus with National Express

Sat, Jun 20
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Bournemouth to Reading

Showing times and prices for Jun 20

Cheapest price

$33

Average price

$58

Fastest journey

2 h 50 m

Average duration

3 h 11 m

Buses per day

5

Distance

104 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Bournemouth to Reading will cost around $58 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $33.

Fast buses

Of the 5 buses that leave Bournemouth for Reading on Sat, Jun 20, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Jun 20 the direct buses cover the 104 km distance in an average of 3 h 11 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 50 m .

On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest buses will take 3 h 27 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.

  • South Western Railway
    5:40 AM3h27
    Bournemouth
    9:07 AMReading
    $331One-way
    0 transfers
  • South Western Railway
    9:55 AM2h50
    Bournemouth
    12:45 PMReading
    $351One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    2:20 AM3h20
    Bournemouth
    5:40 AMReading
    $561One-way
    0 transfers
  • South Western Railway
    7:20 AM2h55
    Bournemouth
    10:15 AMReading
    $801One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    5:15 PM3h22
    Bournemouth
    8:37 PMReading
    $851One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Bournemouth to Reading

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bournemouth to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $11. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 30m. 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 $11, and a bus costs an average of $27.

Distance: 64 miles (104 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$70

Average price

$30

Average price

Cheapest

$28

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 23m

Average total duration

2h 53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 0m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 30m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 33m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

National Express

Most popular bus company

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Bournemouth to Reading is a train with an average price of $30 (€25).

This is compared to other travel options from Bournemouth to Reading:

A train is $39 (€32) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Bournemouth to Reading costing on average $70 (€57).

The fastest way to travel from Bournemouth to Reading is by train with an average journey time of 1h 30m.

Other travel options to Reading take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 53m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bournemouth and Reading including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bournemouth to Reading among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.

You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.

Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.

Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.

Bournemouth to Reading Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:50AM
Arrival Time
04:11AM
Duration
3h21
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$90
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:50AM
Arrival Time
05:11AM
Duration
3h21
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$92
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:20AM
Arrival Time
05:40AM
Duration
3h20
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$56
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:20AM
Arrival Time
06:42AM
Duration
3h22
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$92
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:00AM
Arrival Time
08:17AM
Duration
3h17
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$92
Operator
South Western Railway
Departure Time
05:40AM
Arrival Time
09:07AM
Duration
3h27
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$33
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:20AM
Arrival Time
09:45AM
Duration
3h25
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$90
Operator
South Western Railway
Departure Time
07:20AM
Arrival Time
10:15AM
Duration
2h55
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$80
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:25AM
Arrival Time
10:45AM
Duration
3h20
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$90
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:55AM
Arrival Time
11:25AM
Duration
3h30
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$90
Operator
CrossCountry
Departure Time
09:05AM
Arrival Time
11:05AM
Duration
2h00
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$27
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:40AM
Arrival Time
12:45PM
Duration
3h05
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$98
Operator
South Western Railway
Departure Time
09:55AM
Arrival Time
12:45PM
Duration
2h50
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$35
Operator
CrossCountry
Departure Time
10:05AM
Arrival Time
12:05PM
Duration
2h00
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
CrossCountry
Departure Time
10:20AM
Arrival Time
12:05PM
Duration
1h45
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
South Western Railway
Departure Time
10:50AM
Arrival Time
01:27PM
Duration
2h37
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$81
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:30AM
Arrival Time
02:47PM
Duration
3h17
Departure days
Mon, Fri
Cheapest price
$57
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:00PM
Arrival Time
04:09PM
Duration
3h09
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$76
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:30PM
Arrival Time
06:09PM
Duration
3h39
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$76
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:20PM
Arrival Time
08:02PM
Duration
3h42
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$76
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:15PM
Arrival Time
08:37PM
Duration
3h22
Departure days
Thu, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$78
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:30PM
Arrival Time
08:47PM
Duration
3h17
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$64
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:15PM
Arrival Time
09:11PM
Duration
2h56
Departure days
Mon, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$74
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:30PM
Arrival Time
11:15PM
Duration
3h45
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$86
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:30PM
Arrival Time
12:15AM
Duration
3h45
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Fri
Cheapest price
$61

Live departures

Bournemouth to Reading bus times

The table below shows live departures for Bournemouth to Reading buses for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National Express11:30 AM Bournemouth
3h17
2:47 PM Reading0 transfersDirect
National Express5:15 PM Bournemouth
2h56
8:11 PM Reading0 transfersDirect
National Express6:15 PM Bournemouth
3h02
9:17 PM Reading0 transfersDirect
National Express7:30 PM Bournemouth
3h45
11:15 PM Reading0 transfersDirect
National Express8:30 PM Bournemouth
3h45
12:15 AM Reading0 transfersDirect
National Express2:20 AM Bournemouth
3h20
5:40 AM Reading0 transfersDirect
South Western Railway5:40 AM Bournemouth
3h27
9:07 AM Reading0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bournemouth to Reading by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26

Why should you book Bournemouth to Reading buses with Omio?

National Express as well as Megabus or FlixBus offer buses services from Bournemouth to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bournemouth to Reading.

Why book with Omio vs National Express?

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

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Bournemouth to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Bournemouth to Reading run on average 11 times per day, taking around 2h 53m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $27 (€22) but you can travel from only $11 (€9) by train.

The earliest bus runs at 00:50, the last at 23:38. The fastest bus covers the 64 miles (104 km) distance in 1h 45m.

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
Train from $11 (€9)
Distance
64 miles (104 km)
Average bus duration
2h 53m
Cheapest ticket price
$27 (€22)
Buses per day
11
Fastest bus
1h 45m
First bus
12:50 AM
Last bus
11:38 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
3 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
Train from $11 (€9)

Bus providers: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus from Bournemouth to ReadingYou can travel by bus between Bournemouth to Reading with National Express, Megabus, FlixBus for as low as $11 (€9). 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
3h 0m
Cheapest Price
$55 (€45)
FlixBus frequency
3 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
2h 56m
Cheapest Price
$56 (€46)
National Express frequency
11 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
2h 55m
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.

FAQs: Bus from Bournemouth to Reading

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth to Reading can start from as little as $27 (€22) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bournemouth to Reading is $70 (€57) ; 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 Bournemouth to Reading is 1h 45m to travel the 64 miles (104 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 Bournemouth to Reading leaves at 12:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Bournemouth to Reading leaves at 11:38 PM.
There are 11 buses a day from Bournemouth to Reading which require at least one change with National Express, Megabus, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Bournemouth to Reading, you can count on National Express, Megabus, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Reading. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Bournemouth and Reading and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Reading from Bournemouth is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Bournemouth to Reading is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bournemouth and Reading including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bournemouth 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, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bournemouth to Reading for bus company National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Bournemouth 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express, FlixBus.
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 Bournemouth to Reading.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth to Reading with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Bournemouth to Reading with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Bournemouth to Reading with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Since neither Bournemouth nor Reading are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bournemouth to Reading among Omio's users.
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 Bournemouth to Reading

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

Departure bus stations in Bournemouth
Arrival bus stations in Reading
Bournemouth, Coach Station
City-centre transport

Getting to Bournemouth, Coach Station from Bournemouth city centre

Bus13, 5, 6, 50, m1, 12, 13A, N5, N1, 11, 21 · 6m · $2 · every ~74 min
m1, 5, 6, 50, 13, 12, 13A, 21, 11, N5, N1 · 7m · $2 · every ~74 min

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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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