Exeter to Reading bus with National Express

Sat, Oct 17
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Exeter to Reading

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 17

Cheapest price on Oct 17

$84

Average ticket price on Oct 17

$89

Fastest journey on Oct 17

6 h 33 m

Average journey duration on Oct 17

7 h 2 m

Buses on Oct 17

2

Distance

196 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Exeter to Reading will cost around $89 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $84.

Fast buses

On Sat, Oct 17, we found 2 buses from Exeter to Reading, including 2 direct services.

On Sat, Oct 17 the direct buses cover the 196 km distance in an average of 7 h 2 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 33 m .

On Sat, Oct 17 the slowest buses will take 7 h 30 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
    12:35 PM6h33
    Exeter
    7:08 PMReading
    $841One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    2:15 AM7h30
    Exeter
    9:45 AMReading
    $941One-way
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Exeter to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Exeter to Reading run on average 2 times per day, taking around 5h 12m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $81 but you can travel from only $45 by train.

The earliest bus runs at 00:09, the last at 22:28. The fastest bus covers the 121 miles (196 km) distance in 4h 28m.

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 $45
Distance
121 miles (196 km)
Average bus duration
5h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
$81
Buses per day
2
Fastest bus
4h 28m
First bus
12:09 AM
Last bus
10:28 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
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
Train from $45

Exeter to Reading Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:15AM
Arrival Time
09:45AM
Duration
7h30
Departure days
Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$90
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:15AM
Arrival Time
10:45AM
Duration
7h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$92
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:30AM
Arrival Time
12:47PM
Duration
7h17
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$89
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:15AM
Arrival Time
02:06PM
Duration
7h51
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:10AM
Arrival Time
01:05PM
Duration
4h55
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$20
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:10AM
Arrival Time
03:49PM
Duration
6h39
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$92
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:30AM
Arrival Time
04:09PM
Duration
6h39
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$115
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:40AM
Arrival Time
04:09PM
Duration
6h29
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$115
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:10AM
Arrival Time
04:49PM
Duration
6h39
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$96
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:35PM
Arrival Time
07:08PM
Duration
6h33
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$84
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:30PM
Arrival Time
08:47PM
Duration
7h17
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$116
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:40PM
Arrival Time
08:47PM
Duration
7h07
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$116
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:50PM
Arrival Time
12:15AM
Duration
7h25
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$76
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:10PM
Arrival Time
12:15AM
Duration
7h05
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$76

Live departures

Exeter to Reading bus times

The table below shows live departures for Exeter to Reading buses for today, Friday, October 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressNX101 · NX202 · RRRA19:30 AM Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court
6h39
4:09 PM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers
National ExpressNX101 · NX202 · RRRA19:40 AM Exeter, Honiton Road
6h29
4:09 PM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers
National ExpressNX104 · NX202 · RRRA11:30 PM Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court
7h17
8:47 PM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers
National ExpressNX104 · NX202 · RRRA11:40 PM Exeter, Honiton Road
7h07
8:47 PM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers
National ExpressNX101 · NX200 · RRRA14:50 PM Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court
7h25
12:15 AM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers
National ExpressNX101 · NX200 · RRRA15:10 PM Exeter, Honiton Road
7h05
12:15 AM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Exeter to Reading buses with Omio?

National Express operates all buses services from Exeter to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Exeter to Reading.

Why book with Omio vs National Express?

  • 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Exeter to Reading.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Exeter to Reading.

Bus providers: National Express from Exeter to ReadingYou can travel by bus between Exeter to Reading with National Express for as low as $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
4h 28m
Cheapest National Express Price
$81
National Express frequency
2 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 Exeter to Reading

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Exeter 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 Exeter to Reading can start from as little as $81 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Exeter to Reading is $95 ; 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 Exeter to Reading is 4h 28m to travel the 121 miles (196 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 Exeter to Reading leaves at 12:09 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Exeter to Reading leaves at 10:28 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Exeter to Reading which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Exeter to Reading, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Reading. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Exeter and Reading and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Exeter , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court, Exeter, Honiton Road . 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 Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court, 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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Exeter and Reading including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Exeter to Reading:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Exeter to Reading for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Exeter 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company 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 Exeter to Reading.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Exeter to Reading:
  • National Express
    • Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Exeter to Reading:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Exeter to Reading.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Exeter to Reading with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Exeter to Reading with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Exeter to Reading with the following bus company: National Express.
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 Exeter to Reading

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

Departure bus stations in Exeter
Arrival bus stations in Reading

Which Exeter station do buses to Reading leave from?

Buses from Exeter to Reading leave from Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court. The station is from Exeter city centre at Exeter Coach Station, Bampfylde St, Exeter EX1 2JX, UK.
Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover CourtExeter Coach Station, Bampfylde St, Exeter EX1 2JX, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court from Exeter city centre

Bus173 · 5m · $2 · every ~1 min
A, E · 6m · $3 · every ~21 min

Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court bus station facilities and services

Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court 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 Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court. ATMs are available at Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court: Wheelchair accessible.

Exeter, Honiton RoadHoniton Road, Exeter, EX2 7NL, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Exeter, Honiton Road from Exeter city centre

Exeter, Honiton Road is 3 km from Exeter city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus9, 9A, 44, 44A, 4A, 4 · 13m · $3 · every ~29 min
9, 9A, 44, 44A, 4A, 4 · 14m · $3 · every ~29 min
Coly 8 · 18m
78 · 33m

Exeter, Honiton Road bus station facilities and services

Exeter, Honiton Road has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Café in the station (in the station).

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Exeter, Honiton Road.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Exeter, Honiton Road: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter, Honiton Road: Ramps.

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