- Must visit
Reading Museum
Reading's main museum, famed for the Bayeux Tapestry replica, local history, Huntley & Palmers displays, and Abbey galleries.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Edinburgh to Reading
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 02
- Cheapest price on Nov 02
- $38
- Average ticket price on Nov 02
- $126
- Fastest journey on Nov 02
- 13 h 20 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 02
- 13 h 34 m
- Buses on Nov 02
- 5
- Distance
- 521 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Edinburgh to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Reading will cost around $126 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $38.
Fast buses
On Mon, Nov 02, we found 5 buses from Edinburgh to Reading, including 5 direct services.
On Mon, Nov 02 the direct buses cover the 521 km distance in an average of 13 h 34 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 13 h 20 m .
On Mon, Nov 02 the slowest buses will take 14 h 10 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.
10:15 AM 14h10 Edinburgh 12:25 AM Reading $38 1 One-way 0 transfers
10:35 AM 13h40 Edinburgh 12:15 AM Reading $112 1 One-way 0 transfers10:05 PM 13h20 Edinburgh 11:25 AM Reading $117 1 One-way 0 transfers9:05 PM 13h20 Edinburgh 10:25 AM Reading $179 1 One-way 0 transfers8:25 PM 13h20 Edinburgh 9:45 AM Reading $184 1 One-way 0 transfers
10:05 PM 13h20 Edinburgh 11:25 AM Reading $117 1 One-way 0 transfers9:05 PM 13h20 Edinburgh 10:25 AM Reading $179 1 One-way 0 transfers8:25 PM 13h20 Edinburgh 9:45 AM Reading $184 1 One-way 0 transfers10:35 AM 13h40 Edinburgh 12:15 AM Reading $112 1 One-way 0 transfers10:15 AM 14h10 Edinburgh 12:25 AM Reading $38 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Edinburgh to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Edinburgh to Reading run on average 5 times per day, taking around 11h 55m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $86 but you can travel from only $30 by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 02:24, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 323 miles (521 km) distance in 10h 46m.
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
Flight from $30
Distance 323 miles (521 km) |
Average bus duration 11h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $86 |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 10h 46m |
First bus 2:24 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 21 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
Flight from $30
Frequently asked questions about your Edinburgh to Reading trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Edinburgh to Reading.
Cheap bus tickets from Edinburgh to Reading can start from as little as $86 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Edinburgh to Reading is $120 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Edinburgh to Reading leaves at 2:24 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Edinburgh to Reading leaves at 11:40 PM.
There are 5 buses a day from Edinburgh to Reading which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Edinburgh to Reading Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:35AM | Arrival Time 11:15PM | Duration 13h40 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $205 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 12:25AM | Duration 14h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:35AM | Arrival Time 12:15AM | Duration 13h40 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $90 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:25PM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 13h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $184 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:05PM | Arrival Time 10:25AM | Duration 13h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $108 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:25PM | Arrival Time 10:13AM | Duration 12h48 | Departure days Tue, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $91 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 10:45AM | Duration 13h00 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $96 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 11:25AM | Duration 13h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $100 |
Live departures
Edinburgh to Reading bus times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Reading buses for today, Sunday, November 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX594 · NX030 · RRRA1 | 9:25 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 13h20 | 10:45 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX594 · NX025 · RRRA1 | 9:25 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 13h20 | 10:45 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX598 · NX032 · RRRA1 | 9:45 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 13h40 | 11:25 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX598 · NX035 · RRRA1 | 9:45 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 13h40 | 11:25 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 2 transfers | |
| Monday, November 2 | |||||
| 10:15 AM Edinburgh | 14h10 | 12:25 AM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:35 AM Edinburgh | 13h40 | 12:15 AM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Edinburgh to Reading buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Edinburgh to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh to Reading.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Reading.
Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Edinburgh to ReadingYou can travel by bus between Edinburgh to Reading with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $30. 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 FlixBus Duration
10h 46m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$120
FlixBus frequency
5 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 National Express Duration
11h 4m
Cheapest National Express Price
$86
National Express frequency
5 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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Edinburgh and Reading
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh and Reading and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Edinburgh to Reading for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Edinburgh to Reading:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Edinburgh 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 {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Edinburgh to Reading.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh to Reading with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Edinburgh to Reading with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Edinburgh to Reading with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Complete guide to Reading
Things to do in Reading
Discover the best of Reading — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Reading trip today.
- Must visit
The Museum of English Rural Life
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.
- Must visit
Forbury Gardens
Large central park with formal gardens, Thames views, and the iconic Maiwand Lion. A classic place to stroll or relax near downtown.
- Must visit
Reading Abbey Quarter
Historic quarter around the Abbey ruins, museum, and Forbury Gardens. Ideal for understanding Reading's origins on a compact walking route.
- Recommended
King's Meadow
Riverside nature reserve and meadow walk beside the Thames. Peaceful paths and wildlife make it a favorite local escape close to the centre.
Windsor Fish Pie
A Berkshire classic of smoked haddock in a creamy parsley sauce. Traditionally linked to Windsor and widely associated with the wider county.
- Vegetarian
Berkshire Lardy Cake
A rich fruit cake made with currants, butter, eggs, sugar and mixed spice. A long-standing Berkshire tea-time bake.
- Vegetarian
Sally Lunn Bun
A soft yeasted bun spiced with caraway and filled with currants, candied peel and sugar. Traditionally baked in Berkshire and nearby counties.
L'Ortolan
Polished fine dining restaurant known for seasonal British tasting menus and refined service in an elegant central Reading setting.
Bakery House
Popular Reading institution for Lebanese and Middle Eastern plates, known for generous mezze and a lively, casual atmosphere.
London Street Brasserie
Well-regarded independent restaurant serving British and European dishes with seasonal ingredients in a relaxed modern dining room.
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.
Reading Buses
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Reading, Blagrave Street -> Reading Station, Reading
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 4 min
- Contactless card and mobile payments are accepted on Reading Buses, and fares are capped on Simply Reading services.
- Buy tickets in the Reading Buses app before boarding for faster travel and live bus times.
Plan your visit to Reading
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Reading.
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.
FAQs: Bus from Edinburgh to Reading
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh 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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Reading including taking a bus, train, and flight.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Edinburgh to Reading
Most Edinburgh to Reading buses use the Edinburgh, Bus Station to Reading, Blagrave Street station pair. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Reading bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Edinburgh
Arrival bus stations in Reading
Which Edinburgh station do buses to Reading leave from?
Buses from Edinburgh to Reading leave from Edinburgh, Bus Station. The station is from Edinburgh city centre at Elder Street, Edinburgh EH1 3DX, United Kingdom.
Edinburgh, Bus StationElder Street, Edinburgh EH1 3DX, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh, Bus Station from Edinburgh city centre
Bus10, 11 · 2m · $3 · every ~30 min
Uk090 · 5m · $2 · every ~32 min
TramEdinburgh York Place - Edinburgh Airport, T50 · 3m · $5 · every ~38 min
Edinburgh, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Edinburgh, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Sandwich Shop (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Edinburgh, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.
Which Reading station do buses from Edinburgh arrive at?
Buses from Edinburgh to Reading arrive at Reading, Blagrave Street. Reading, Blagrave Street is from Reading city centre.
Reading, Blagrave StreetReading RG1 1PZ, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading, Blagrave Street from Reading city centre
Bus19a, 19c · 1h 21m · $3
Reading, Blagrave Street bus station facilities and services
Reading, Blagrave Street has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading, Blagrave Street: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Bus stations for Edinburgh to Reading
Check bus stations information for Edinburgh and Reading, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Edinburgh, Bus Station, 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.
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Reading and Edinburgh
Most popular bus connections to Reading
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