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The cheapest and fastest buses from Liverpool to Reading
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$67
Average price
$89
Fastest journey
7 h 27 m
Average duration
8 h 48 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
256 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Liverpool to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Liverpool to Reading will cost around $89 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $67.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Liverpool to Reading without transferring at least 2 times.
NX540 · NX035 · RRRA19:30 AM9h39Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place7:09 PMReading, Blagrave Street$671One-way2 transfers- NX540 · NX035 · RRRA16:00 AM9h25Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place3:25 PMReading, Blagrave Street$801One-way2 transfers
- NX541 · NX210 · RRRA111:00 AM9h38Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place8:38 PMReading, Blagrave Street$911One-way2 transfers
- NX541 · NX210 · RRRA11:45 PM8h22Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place10:07 PMReading, Blagrave Street$911One-way2 transfers
- NX541 · NX210 · RRRA17:35 AM9h10Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place4:45 PMReading, Blagrave Street$961One-way2 transfers
- NX421 · NX210 · RRRA11:45 AM7h27Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place9:12 AMReading, Blagrave Street$1101One-way2 transfers
- NX541 · NX210 · RRRA11:45 PM8h22Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place10:07 PMReading, Blagrave Street$911One-way2 transfers
- NX541 · NX210 · RRRA17:35 AM9h10Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place4:45 PMReading, Blagrave Street$961One-way2 transfers
- NX540 · NX035 · RRRA16:00 AM9h25Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place3:25 PMReading, Blagrave Street$801One-way2 transfers
- NX541 · NX210 · RRRA111:00 AM9h38Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place8:38 PMReading, Blagrave Street$911One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Liverpool to Reading
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Liverpool to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $64. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 17m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $64, and a train costs an average of $46.
Distance: 159 miles (256 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$73 Average price Cheapest | $110 Average price | $86 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 35m Average total duration 6h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 47m Average total duration Fastest 3h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular bus company |  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 Liverpool to Reading is a bus with an average price of $73 (€60).
This is compared to other travel options from Liverpool to Reading:
A bus is $37 (€30) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Liverpool to Reading costing on average $110 (€90).
The fastest way to travel from Liverpool to Reading is by train with an average journey time of 3h 17m.
Other travel options to Reading take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Liverpool and Reading including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Liverpool 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 $73 (€60) compared to roughly $86 (€70) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $12 (€10). The journey takes 6h 5m versus 3h 49m 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.
Direct services are operated by Megabus.
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.
Liverpool to Reading Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:45AM | Arrival Time 09:12AM | Duration 7h27 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $110 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:00AM | Arrival Time 02:45PM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:00AM | Arrival Time 03:25PM | Duration 9h25 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $80 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:35AM | Arrival Time 04:45PM | Duration 9h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $96 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 07:09PM | Duration 9h39 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 08:38PM | Duration 9h38 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $91 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:55AM | Arrival Time 09:46PM | Duration 9h51 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:10PM | Arrival Time 08:47PM | Duration 8h37 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:20PM | Arrival Time 09:46PM | Duration 9h26 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 11:15PM | Duration 10h45 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 10:07PM | Duration 8h22 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $91 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:15PM | Arrival Time 04:11AM | Duration 9h56 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 05:11AM | Duration 9h56 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $68 |
Live departures
Liverpool to Reading bus times
The table below shows live departures for Liverpool to Reading buses for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:55 AM Liverpool | 9h51 | 9:46 PM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:15 PM Liverpool | 9h55 | 4:10 AM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:15 PM Liverpool | 9h55 | 5:10 AM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
| NX421 · NX210 · RRRA1 | On time 1:45 AM Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place | 7h27 | 9:12 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX540 · NX035 · RRRA1 | 6:00 AM Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place | 9h25 | 3:25 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX541 · NX210 · RRRA1 | On time 7:35 AM Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place | 9h10 | 4:45 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX541 · NX210 · RRRA1 | On time 11:00 AM Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place | 9h38 | 8:38 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX541 · NX210 · RRRA1 | On time 1:45 PM Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place | 8h22 | 10:07 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Liverpool 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.
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Why should you book Liverpool to Reading buses with Omio?
Megabus as well as National Express or FlixBus offer buses services from Liverpool to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Liverpool to Reading.
Why book with Omio vs Megabus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Megabus, but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Liverpool 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 Megabus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Liverpool 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 National Express or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Liverpool to Reading.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Liverpool to Reading.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Liverpool to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Liverpool to Reading run on average 8 times per day, taking around 6h 5m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $64 (€53) but you can travel from only $46 (€38) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 00:45, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 159 miles (256 km) distance in 8h 37m.
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 $46 (€38)
Distance 159 miles (256 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $64 (€53) |
Buses per day 8 |
Fastest bus 8h 37m |
First bus 12:45 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 $46 (€38)
Bus providers: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus from Liverpool to ReadingYou can travel by bus between Liverpool to Reading with Megabus, National Express, FlixBus for as low as $46 (€38). 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
6h 25m
Cheapest Price
$74 (€61)
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
8h 37m
Cheapest Price
$64 (€53)
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.
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
6h 0m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€20)
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 Liverpool to Reading
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Liverpool 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Liverpool to Reading can start from as little as $64 (€53) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Liverpool to Reading is $73 (€60) ; 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 Liverpool to Reading is 8h 37m to travel the 159 miles (256 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 Liverpool to Reading leaves at 12:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Liverpool to Reading leaves at 11:45 PM.
There are 8 buses a day from Liverpool to Reading which require at least one change with Megabus, National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Liverpool to Reading, you can count on Megabus, 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 Liverpool and Reading and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Liverpool , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place, Liverpool, Liverpool One, Liverpool, Edge Lane Drive . 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 Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place, which is located around 0 miles (1 km) 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 Liverpool is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 37m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Liverpool to Reading is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Liverpool and Reading including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Liverpool 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 Liverpool to Reading for bus company Megabus, National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Liverpool 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 Liverpool to Reading.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Liverpool 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 Liverpool 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 Liverpool 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 Liverpool to Reading with the following bus company: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Liverpool to Reading with the following bus company: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Liverpool to Reading with the following bus company: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus.
Since neither Liverpool 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Liverpool 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 Liverpool to Reading
Liverpool
Reading
The major bus station for departures in Liverpool is Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place for your trip from Liverpool to Reading.
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Distance to city center
1 km
Car connection
Canning PlaceWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café in the Station (in the station)
- Fast Food Outlet (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station
Public transit options for Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place
- Bus: 10, 10A, 14, 14A, 18, 79, 82 Train: Merseyrail
Liverpool, Liverpool One
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Distance to city center
1 kmCar connection
Canning PlaceWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Pret A Manger (in the station)
- Costa Coffee (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station
Public transit options for Liverpool, Liverpool One
- Bus: 10, 10A, 14, 14A, 82, 86A Train: Merseyrail
Liverpool, Edge Lane Drive
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Reading is Reading, Blagrave Street. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Reading, Blagrave Street for your trip to Reading from Liverpool.
Reading, Blagrave Street
Amenities at bus station
Accessibilityinformation
Accessibility
- The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible
Most popular bus connections from Liverpool
More options for your journey from Liverpool to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Reading and Liverpool
Most popular bus connections to Reading
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