Cambridge to Reading bus with National Express

Tue, Jun 16
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cambridge to Reading

Showing times and prices for Jun 16

Cheapest price

$78

Average price

$78

Fastest journey

4 h 34 m

Average duration

4 h 34 m

Buses per day

1

Distance

111 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cambridge to Reading will cost around $78 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $78.

Fast buses

Of the 1 buses that leave Cambridge for Reading on Tue, Jun 16, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Jun 16 the direct buses cover the 111 km distance in an average of 4 h 34 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 34 m .

On Tue, Jun 16 the slowest buses will take 4 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.

  • National Express
    12:15 PM4h34
    Cambridge
    4:49 PMReading
    $781One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Cambridge to Reading

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cambridge to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $60. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 2m. 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 bus costs an average of $60, and a train costs an average of $58.

Distance: 68 miles (111 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$81

Average price

Cheapest

$84

Average price

$31

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 2m

Average total duration

3h 32m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 2m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 2m

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 Northern

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 Cambridge to Reading is a bus with an average price of $81 (€65).

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

A bus is $3 (€3) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cambridge to Reading costing on average $84 (€68).

The fastest way to travel from Cambridge to Reading is by train with an average journey time of 2h 2m.

Other travel options to Reading take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 32m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cambridge and Reading including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cambridge 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.

Cambridge to Reading Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:35AM
Arrival Time
04:40AM
Duration
4h05
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$78
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:35AM
Arrival Time
05:41AM
Duration
4h06
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$62
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:50AM
Arrival Time
08:17AM
Duration
4h27
Departure days
Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$83
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:45AM
Arrival Time
10:05AM
Duration
4h20
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$83
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:05AM
Arrival Time
10:13AM
Duration
4h08
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$85
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:55AM
Arrival Time
12:05PM
Duration
4h10
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$83
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:00AM
Arrival Time
12:17PM
Duration
4h17
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$85
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:20AM
Arrival Time
01:26PM
Duration
4h06
Departure days
Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$83
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:15PM
Arrival Time
04:49PM
Duration
4h34
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$60
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:55PM
Arrival Time
06:09PM
Duration
4h14
Departure days
Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$83
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:00PM
Arrival Time
08:47PM
Duration
4h47
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Fri
Cheapest price
$83
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:15PM
Arrival Time
08:41PM
Duration
4h26
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$85
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:15PM
Arrival Time
10:46PM
Duration
4h31
Departure days
Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$83

Live departures

Cambridge to Reading bus times

The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Reading buses for tomorrow, Tuesday, June 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National Express12:15 PM Cambridge
4h34
4:49 PM Reading0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cambridge to Reading by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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
Jun 16
Wed
Jun 17
Thu
Jun 18
Fri
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22

Why should you book Cambridge to Reading buses with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Cambridge to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cambridge 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 FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cambridge 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 FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge to Reading.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cambridge to Reading.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Cambridge to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Cambridge to Reading run on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 32m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $60 (€48) but you can travel from only $58 (€47) by train.

The earliest bus runs at 01:35, the last at 21:12. The fastest bus covers the 68 miles (111 km) distance in 4h 5m.

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 $58 (€47)
Distance
68 miles (111 km)
Average bus duration
3h 32m
Cheapest ticket price
$60 (€48)
Buses per day
9
Fastest bus
4h 5m
First bus
1:35 AM
Last bus
9:12 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
5 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 $58 (€47)

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Cambridge to ReadingYou can travel by bus between Cambridge to Reading with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $58 (€47). 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 35m
Cheapest Price
$56 (€45)
FlixBus frequency
1 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.
Learn more about FlixBus

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
4h 5m
Cheapest Price
$60 (€48)
National Express frequency
10 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.
Learn more about National Express

FAQs: Bus from Cambridge to Reading

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cambridge 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 Cambridge to Reading can start from as little as $60 (€48) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cambridge to Reading is $81 (€65) ; 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 Cambridge to Reading is 4h 5m to travel the 68 miles (111 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 Cambridge to Reading leaves at 1:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cambridge to Reading leaves at 9:12 PM.
There are 9 buses a day from Cambridge to Reading which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cambridge to Reading, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Reading. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cambridge and Reading and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Reading from Cambridge is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cambridge to Reading is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cambridge and Reading including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cambridge to Reading:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cambridge to Reading for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cambridge to Reading depends on the bus companies:
  • 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 Cambridge to Reading.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cambridge to Reading:
  • 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 Cambridge to Reading:
  • 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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge to Reading with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cambridge to Reading with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cambridge to Reading with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Since neither Cambridge 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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge to Reading

Cambridge
Reading
The major bus station for departures in Cambridge is Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) for your trip from Cambridge to Reading.
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
information

More options for your journey from Cambridge to Reading

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

Trains from Cambridge to Reading
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Tickets and more information for coaches to Reading

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