Luton to Reading bus with National Express

Wed, Nov 04
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Luton to Reading

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
Cheapest price on Nov 04
$19
Average ticket price on Nov 04
$59
Fastest journey on Nov 04
2 h 41 m
Average journey duration on Nov 04
2 h 50 m
Buses on Nov 04
8
Distance
61 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Luton to Reading will cost around $59 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $19.

Fast buses

On Wed, Nov 04, we found 8 buses from Luton to Reading, including 8 direct services.

On Wed, Nov 04 the direct buses cover the 61 km distance in an average of 2 h 50 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 41 m .

On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest buses will take 3 h 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.

  • FlixBus
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Luton to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Luton to Reading run on average 15 times per day, taking around 2h 16m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $54 but you can travel from only $32 by train.

The earliest bus runs at 00:50, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 37 miles (61 km) distance in 1h 45m.

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 $32
Distance
37 miles (61 km)
Average bus duration
2h 16m
Cheapest ticket price
$54
Buses per day
15
Fastest bus
1h 45m
First bus
12:50 AM
Last bus
11:50 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sun
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 $32

Frequently asked questions about your Luton to Reading trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Luton to Reading.

Cheap bus tickets from Luton to Reading can start from as little as $54 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Luton to Reading is $73 ; 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 Luton to Reading leaves at 12:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Luton to Reading leaves at 11:50 PM.
There are 15 buses a day from Luton to Reading which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.

Luton to Reading Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:50AM
Arrival Time
05:11AM
Duration
3h21
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$68
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:50AM
Arrival Time
05:42AM
Duration
2h52
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$57
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:35AM
Arrival Time
06:47AM
Duration
3h12
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$66
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:50AM
Arrival Time
06:42AM
Duration
2h52
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$58
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:35AM
Arrival Time
07:47AM
Duration
3h12
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$67
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:00AM
Arrival Time
07:40AM
Duration
2h40
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:35AM
Arrival Time
08:17AM
Duration
2h42
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$61
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:05AM
Arrival Time
09:06AM
Duration
3h01
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$68
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:20AM
Arrival Time
09:12AM
Duration
2h52
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$70
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:10AM
Arrival Time
11:25AM
Duration
3h15
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$70
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:40AM
Arrival Time
12:45PM
Duration
3h05
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$65
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:20AM
Arrival Time
02:25PM
Duration
3h05
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$67
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:25AM
Arrival Time
02:06PM
Duration
2h41
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$68
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:15PM
Arrival Time
03:28PM
Duration
3h13
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$67
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:30PM
Arrival Time
04:49PM
Duration
3h19
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:25PM
Arrival Time
06:46PM
Duration
3h21
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:40PM
Arrival Time
06:43PM
Duration
3h03
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:05PM
Arrival Time
07:25PM
Duration
3h20
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$70
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:10PM
Arrival Time
07:13PM
Duration
3h03
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$70
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:10PM
Arrival Time
08:11PM
Duration
3h01
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:20PM
Arrival Time
08:02PM
Duration
2h42
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:00PM
Arrival Time
08:47PM
Duration
2h47
Departure days
Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$65
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:00PM
Arrival Time
09:47PM
Duration
2h47
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$66
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:10PM
Arrival Time
12:15AM
Duration
3h05
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$85
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:25PM
Arrival Time
12:25AM
Duration
3h00
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$19
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:35PM
Arrival Time
05:11AM
Duration
5h36
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$67

Live departures

Luton to Reading bus times

The table below shows live departures for Luton to Reading buses for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressNX230 · RRRA11:50 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
3h21
5:11 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX230 · RRRA13:50 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
2h52
6:42 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX230 · RRRA14:35 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
3h12
7:47 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX240 · RRRA15:35 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
2h42
8:17 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX230 · RRRA16:05 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
3h01
9:06 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX230 · RRRA18:10 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
3h15
11:25 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX230 · RRRA19:40 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
3h05
12:45 PM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX230 · RRRA111:25 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
2h41
2:06 PM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX240 · RRRA112:15 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
3h13
3:28 PM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX230 · RRRA11:30 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
3h19
4:49 PM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX230 · RRRA13:25 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
3h21
6:46 PM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX230 · RRRA14:05 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
3h20
7:25 PM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX230 · RRRA15:20 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
2h42
8:02 PM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX230 · RRRA17:00 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
2h47
9:47 PM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX231 · RRRA19:10 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
3h05
12:15 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNXA2 · NXA40 · RRRA111:35 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
5h36
5:11 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 Luton to Reading buses with Omio?

National Express operates all buses services from Luton to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Luton 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Luton to Reading.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Bus providers: National Express from Luton to ReadingYou can travel by bus between Luton to Reading with National Express for as low as $32. 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
1h 45m
Cheapest National Express Price
$54
National Express frequency
15 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 Luton 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 Luton 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 Luton and Reading and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Luton to Reading:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Luton to Reading for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Luton 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 {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Luton to Reading.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Luton 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 Luton to Reading:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Luton to Reading.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Luton to Reading with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Luton to Reading with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Luton to Reading with the following bus company: National Express.

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.

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.

Buses from Luton to Reading: Journey Details

National Express is the sole provider of buses from Luton to Reading. Monday to Friday, the company lays on around 40 departures a day, starting at 2:05 a.m. and continuing to 10:05 p.m. From 10:00 a.m. to 2:50 p.m. there are three departures an hour, dropping to roughly one an hour from 6:30 p.m. onwards. Weekends follow a similar pattern but the last bus is earlier at 8:10 p.m. Journeys generally involve one change and take about 3 hours.

Taking the Bus from Luton

Buses from Luton to Reading depart from the National Express Luton Town coach stop, located at the town centre Bus Interchange, next to the railroad station, within easy walking distance of the Mall Shopping Centre, and 5 minutes by bus or bicycle from the University of Bedfordshire campus. Being based at the Interchange, the Luton Town coach stop is readily accessible by numerous bus routes across the local area. The bus service ceases operation between 12:15 am and 5:46 am.

Getting into Reading by Bus

Reading is a thriving university town, with a well attended music festival which takes place every year on the August bank Vacation weekend, an annual five day beer festival, and a vibrant performance arts scene. Buses from Luton terminate at the RailAir Coach Stop, which is situated near the South-West entrance to Reading railroad Station at the end of Gerrard Street. The station is centrally located for the town's attractions, with the Riverside Leisure Centre and Oracle Shopping Centre both within a 10 minutes' walk or short bus ride away, and the University of Reading's London Road Campus less than 1 mile to the south. Directly opposite the coach station there are three bus stops and more slightly further on, on Station Road, while cabs can be found at the rank by the railroad Station's Caversham Road exit.

FAQs: Bus from Luton to Reading

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Luton 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
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Luton and Reading including taking a train and bus.
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 Luton to Reading

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

Departure bus stations in Luton
Arrival bus stations in Reading

Which Luton station do buses to Reading leave from?

Buses from Luton to Reading leave from Luton, Station Interchange. The station is from Luton city centre at Luton Station Interchange, Luton LU1 2WG, UK.
Luton, Station InterchangeLuton Station Interchange, Luton LU1 2WG, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Luton, Station Interchange from Luton city centre

Bus17 · 7m · $3 · every ~2 min

Luton, Station Interchange bus station facilities and services

Luton, Station Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Cafes and fast food options nearby.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

WiFi is available at nearby facilities. ATMs are aTM available within short walking distance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Luton, Station Interchange.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Luton, Station Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luton, Station Interchange: Ramps and accessible routes available for wheelchairs.

Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney)Dunstable Rd, Luton, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney) from Luton city centre

Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney) is 3 km from Luton city centre. Public transport options include:

BusZ · 11m · $3 · every ~15 min
A · 1h 5m · $3 · every ~13 min

Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney) bus station facilities and services

Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney) 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 Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney). ATMs are available at Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney).

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney): Limited accessibility.

Bus stations for Luton to Reading

Check bus stations information for Luton and Reading, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.

When departing from Luton , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Luton, Station Interchange, Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney) . When arriving in Reading , you can end your journey in bus stations like Reading, Blagrave Street .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Luton, Station Interchange, 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.

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