Bristol to Reading bus with National Express

Fri, Sep 18
+ Add return
FlixBus
Megabus
National Express
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
2,000+ travel companies
FlixBus
Megabus
National Express
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest buses from Bristol to Reading

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18

Cheapest price on Sep 18

$64

Average ticket price on Sep 18

$75

Fastest journey on Sep 18

3 h 45 m

Average journey duration on Sep 18

3 h 47 m

Buses on Sep 18

17

Distance

113 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Bristol to Reading will cost around $75 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $64.

Fast buses

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

  • National ExpressNX200 · RRRA1
    2:55 AM3h47
    Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
    6:42 AMReading, Blagrave Street
    $641One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX200 · RRRA1
    11:00 AM3h47
    Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
    2:47 PMReading, Blagrave Street
    $641One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX200 · RRRA1
    6:50 AM3h55
    Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
    10:45 AMReading, Blagrave Street
    $641One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX200 · RRRA1
    4:50 AM3h56
    Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
    8:46 AMReading, Blagrave Street
    $641One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX200 · RRRA1
    9:00 AM3h45
    Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
    12:45 PMReading, Blagrave Street
    $641One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Bristol to Reading

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bristol to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $59 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 39m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $59, while a bus costs an average of $71.

Distance: 70 miles (113 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$71

Average price

$59

Average price

Cheapest

$42

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 40m

Average total duration

3h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 39m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 29m

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

Great Western Railway

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 Bristol to Reading is a train with an average price of $59 (€49).

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

A train is $11 (€9) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Bristol to Reading costing on average $71 (€58).

The fastest way to travel from Bristol to Reading is by train with an average journey time of 1h 9m.

Other travel options to Reading take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 10m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bristol and Reading including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bristol to Reading among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.

Tickets start at around $71 (€58) compared to roughly $42 (€34) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-28.84 (€-23.62). The journey takes 3h 10m versus 1h 29m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.

Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.

Bristol to Reading Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:55AM
Arrival Time
05:11AM
Duration
4h16
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$52
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:50AM
Arrival Time
06:47AM
Duration
3h57
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$62
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:55AM
Arrival Time
06:42AM
Duration
3h47
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$52
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:05AM
Arrival Time
06:40AM
Duration
3h35
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$59
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:50AM
Arrival Time
07:47AM
Duration
3h57
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$58
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:00AM
Arrival Time
07:40AM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$74
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:50AM
Arrival Time
08:46AM
Duration
3h56
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$52
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:00AM
Arrival Time
08:42AM
Duration
3h42
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$59
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:50AM
Arrival Time
09:45AM
Duration
3h55
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$58
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:00AM
Arrival Time
09:42AM
Duration
3h42
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$82
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:50AM
Arrival Time
10:45AM
Duration
3h55
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$52
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:00AM
Arrival Time
10:44AM
Duration
3h44
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$64
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:00AM
Arrival Time
12:05PM
Duration
4h05
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$62
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:00AM
Arrival Time
12:45PM
Duration
3h45
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$52
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:00AM
Arrival Time
02:06PM
Duration
4h06
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$58
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:00AM
Arrival Time
02:47PM
Duration
3h47
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$52
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:30AM
Arrival Time
01:05PM
Duration
1h35
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$14
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:00PM
Arrival Time
04:09PM
Duration
4h09
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$62
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:00PM
Arrival Time
04:49PM
Duration
3h49
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$52
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:00PM
Arrival Time
06:09PM
Duration
4h09
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$67
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:15PM
Arrival Time
07:25PM
Duration
4h10
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$52
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:30PM
Arrival Time
08:47PM
Duration
4h17
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$58
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:00PM
Arrival Time
08:47PM
Duration
3h47
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$70
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:00PM
Arrival Time
09:47PM
Duration
3h47
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$51
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:50PM
Arrival Time
11:15PM
Duration
4h25
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$81
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:50PM
Arrival Time
12:15AM
Duration
4h25
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$52
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:55PM
Arrival Time
04:11AM
Duration
4h16
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$80

Live departures

Bristol to Reading bus times

The table below shows live departures for Bristol to Reading buses for today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National Express10:00 AM Bristol
4h06
2:06 PM Reading0 transfersDirect
FlixBus11:30 AM Bristol
1h35
1:05 PM Reading0 transfersDirect
National Express5:00 PM Bristol
3h47
8:47 PM Reading0 transfersDirect
National Express6:00 PM Bristol
3h47
9:47 PM Reading0 transfersDirect
National Express6:50 PM Bristol
4h25
11:15 PM Reading0 transfersDirect
National Express7:50 PM Bristol
4h25
12:15 AM Reading0 transfersDirect
National Express11:55 PM Bristol
4h16
4:11 AM Reading0 transfersDirect
Friday, September 18
National ExpressNX201 · RRRA112:55 AM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
4h16
5:11 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bristol 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.

Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24

Why should you book Bristol to Reading buses with Omio?

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

Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?

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

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Bristol to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Bristol to Reading run on average 15 times per day, taking around 3h 10m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $55 (€45) but you can travel from only $29 (€24) by train.

The earliest bus runs at 00:04, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 70 miles (113 km) distance in 2h 55m.

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 $29 (€24)
Distance
70 miles (113 km)
Average bus duration
3h 10m
Cheapest ticket price
$55 (€45)
Buses per day
15
Fastest bus
2h 55m
First bus
12:04 AM
Last bus
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
14 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 $29 (€24)

Bus providers: National Express from Bristol to ReadingYou can travel by bus between Bristol to Reading with National Express for as low as $55 (€45). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

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 National Express Duration
2h 55m
Cheapest National Express Price
$55 (€45)
National Express frequency
17 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.

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 Bristol to Reading

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bristol 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 Bristol to Reading can start from as little as $55 (€45) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bristol to Reading is $71 (€58) ; 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 Bristol to Reading is 2h 55m to travel the 70 miles (113 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 Bristol to Reading leaves at 12:04 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Bristol to Reading leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 15 buses a day from Bristol to Reading which require at least one change with FlixBus, Megabus, National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Bristol to Reading, you can count on FlixBus, Megabus, National Express for the best way to get you to Reading. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Bristol and Reading and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Bristol , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St), Bristol, Airport (Public Transport Interchange), Stoke Gifford, UWE East Gate, Bristol, Airport Bus Station, Bristol, Clifton Down . 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 Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St), which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Reading, Blagrave Street, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Reading from Bristol is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Bristol to Reading is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bristol and Reading including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bristol to Reading for bus company FlixBus, Megabus, National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bristol 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.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Bristol 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 FlixBus, National Express.
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 Bristol to Reading.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Bristol 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 Bristol 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 Bristol 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 Bristol to Reading with the following bus company: FlixBus, Megabus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Bristol to Reading with the following bus company: FlixBus, Megabus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Bristol to Reading with the following bus company: FlixBus, Megabus, National Express.
Since neither Bristol 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 Bristol 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 Bristol to Reading

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

Departure bus stations in Bristol
Arrival bus stations in Reading
Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)Bristol Bus Station (Bay 19), Marlborough Street 15, BS1 3ES
City-centre transport

Getting to Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) from Bristol city centre

Bus76, X6, X1, 39, 75, X9, X4, 73, X39, 522, X6a, X1a · 4m · $2 · every ~156 min
Bristol, Airport Bus Station
City-centre transport

Getting to Bristol, Airport Bus Station from Bristol city centre

BusFal · 19m · $13 · every ~4 min
A1 · 29m · $5 · every ~30 min
A1 · 32m · $5 · every ~30 min
A1 · 39m · $5 · every ~30 min
Bristol, Clifton DownBristol Bus Station, Bristol BS1 3LH, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Bristol, Clifton Down from Bristol city centre

Bristol, Clifton Down is 1 km from Bristol city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainBristol Temple Meads - Severn Beach, Bristol Temple Meads - Avonmouth, Weston-super-Mare - Severn Beach, Weston-super-Mare - Avonmouth, Taunton - Severn Beach, Weston-super-Mare - Clifton Down · 14m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus2a, 5, 3, 4, 1, 2 · 7m · $5 · every ~91 min
T7 · 10m · every ~2 min
4, 5, 1, 3, 2, 2a · 10m · $5 · every ~91 min

Bristol, Clifton Down bus station facilities and services

Bristol, Clifton Down has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Bristol, Clifton Down. ATMs are available at Bristol, Clifton Down.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Bristol, Clifton Down.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bristol, Clifton Down: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol, Clifton Down: Accessible by ramps or lifts.

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone