- Must visit
The Roman Baths
Bath’s best-known historic site, preserving the ancient bathing complex and temple at the city’s hot springs. Essential for understanding the city’s Roman heritage.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Reading to Bath
Showing times and prices for May 30
Cheapest price
$22
Average price
$27
Fastest journey
5 h 40 m
Average duration
6 h 10 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
97 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Reading to Bath is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Bath will cost around $27 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $22.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Reading to Bath without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus2:10 PM6h15Three Mile Cross, Mereoak Lane - Park & Ride8:25 PMBath, Bus Station$221One-way1 transfer- FlixBus · FlixBus3:55 PM6h35Three Mile Cross, Mereoak Lane - Park & Ride10:30 PMBath, Bus Station$251One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus4:45 AM5h40Three Mile Cross, Mereoak Lane - Park & Ride10:25 AMBath, Bus Station$351One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus4:45 AM5h40Three Mile Cross, Mereoak Lane - Park & Ride10:25 AMBath, Bus Station$351One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus2:10 PM6h15Three Mile Cross, Mereoak Lane - Park & Ride8:25 PMBath, Bus Station$221One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus3:55 PM6h35Three Mile Cross, Mereoak Lane - Park & Ride10:30 PMBath, Bus Station$251One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Reading to Bath
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Bath among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 55m. 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 $18, and a train costs an average of $28.
Distance: 60 miles (97 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$23 Average price Cheapest | $46 Average price | $27 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 7m Average total duration 1h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 25m Average total duration Fastest 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 41m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg 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 Reading to Bath is a bus with an average price of $23 (€19).
This is compared to other travel options from Reading to Bath:
A bus is $23 (€19) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Reading to Bath costing on average $46 (€37).
The fastest way to travel from Reading to Bath is by train with an average journey time of 55m.
Other travel options to Bath take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Bath including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Bath among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about 4m sooner (1h 37m by bus vs 1h 41m by car) and save roughly $4 (€3) compared to fuel and tolls ($23 (€19) vs $27 (€22)). 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 National Express.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Reading to Bath Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:45AM | Arrival Time 10:25AM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:10PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:55PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 6h35 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:55PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 6h35 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator Great Western Railway | Departure Time 11:16PM | Arrival Time 01:10AM | Duration 1h54 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $52 |
Live departures
Reading to Bath bus times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Bath buses for tomorrow, Saturday, May 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:45 AM Three Mile Cross, Mereoak Lane - Park & Ride | 5h40 | 10:25 AM Bath, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 2:10 PM Three Mile Cross, Mereoak Lane - Park & Ride | 6h15 | 8:25 PM Bath, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 3:55 PM Three Mile Cross, Mereoak Lane - Park & Ride | 6h35 | 10:30 PM Bath, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Reading to Bath 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.
Sat
May 30
May 30
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May 31
May 31
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Jun 01
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Jun 05
Why should you book Reading to Bath buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as National Express offer buses services from Reading to Bath.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Bath.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Bath.
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Bath.
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 to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Bath.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Bath.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Reading to Bath
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Reading to Bath run on average 2 times per day, taking around 1h 37m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $18 (€14) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:04, the last at 22:55. The fastest bus covers the 60 miles (97 km) distance in 1h 54m.
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
Distance 60 miles (97 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $18 (€14) |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 1h 54m |
First bus 12:04 AM |
Last bus 10:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 7 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
Bus providers: FlixBus, National Express from Reading to BathYou can travel by bus between Reading to Bath with FlixBus, National Express for as low as $18 (€14). 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
5h 40m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€14)
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
1h 30m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
National Express frequency
3 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 Bath
Things to do in Bath
Discover the best of Bath — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bath trip today.
- Must visit
No. 1 Royal Crescent
Restored Georgian townhouse museum showing how Bath’s elite lived in the 18th century. One of the city’s most atmospheric period interiors.
- Recommended
Victoria Art Gallery
City-owned gallery with changing exhibitions and a permanent collection of British art. A strong stop for art lovers near Pulteney Bridge.
- Recommended
Great Pulteney Street
Broad Georgian boulevard leading to the Holburne Museum, valued for its grand proportions and elegant architecture. Ideal for a classic Bath walk.
- Recommended
Royal Victoria Park
Large public park near the Royal Crescent with lawns, gardens, and broad walking areas. Popular with locals and visitors for relaxed outdoor time.
- Recommended
Prior Park Landscape Garden
Romantic landscaped garden on the hillside above Bath, known for scenic walks and the famous Palladian Bridge. Very photogenic and peaceful.
- Vegetarian
Bath Bun
A rich, sweet yeast bun traditionally associated with Bath, often topped with sugar and filled with currants or sultanas.
- Vegetarian
Sally Lunn Bun
Bath’s most famous bun, a large, light enriched bread served sweet or savoury and linked to the historic Sally Lunn’s eating house.
- Gluten-free
Bath Chap
A traditional Somerset and Bath speciality made from salted and smoked pig’s cheek or jaw, usually cooked and sliced.
Woods Restaurant
Long-running Bath favourite serving classic and modern British cooking in a smart but welcoming Georgian dining room.
The Scallop Shell
Popular seafood restaurant known for fish and chips, fresh British seafood, and a lively yet polished setting.
The Olive Tree
Well-known fine dining restaurant in Bath offering modern British tasting menus in an elegant, refined setting.
Pound sterling
Bath is pricier than many UK cities, especially for hotels and dining, though casual food and pubs can be manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 20-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
About 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not already included. Round up in taxis. Tips are optional in pubs and cafes.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.60
To the city center
Bath Bus Station, Bath -> Bath Spa Station, Bath
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 4 min
- Single bus fares in Bath are capped at GBP 2.00 on many local routes, but check operator conditions before travel.
- Card and contactless payment are accepted on First Bus services, and mobile tickets can be bought in the official app.
FAQs: Bus from Reading to Bath
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Bath 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 Bath, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Reading to Bath can start from as little as $18 (€14) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Reading to Bath is $23 (€19) ; 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 Reading to Bath is 1h 54m to travel the 60 miles (97 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 Reading to Bath leaves at 12:04 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Reading to Bath leaves at 10:55 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Reading to Bath which require at least one change with FlixBus, National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Reading to Bath, you can count on FlixBus, National Express for the best way to get you to Bath. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Reading and Bath and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Bath from Reading is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 54m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Reading to Bath is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Bath including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Reading to Bath:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Reading to Bath for bus company FlixBus, National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Bath are:
- The Roman Baths, an ancient bathing complex and one of the best-preserved Roman sites in the world
- Bath Abbey, a stunning Gothic church known for its fan vaulting and historical significance
- The Royal Crescent, a sweeping crescent-shaped row of Georgian townhouses offering iconic architecture
- Pulteney Bridge, a picturesque bridge lined with shops and offering views of the River Avon
- The Jane Austen Centre, a museum dedicated to the famous author’s life and works in Bath.
The best things to do in Bath include:
- Thermae Bath Spa, a modern spa facility with natural thermal waters and rooftop pool views
- Explore the vibrant stalls and local produce at Bath Farmers' Market
- Enjoy a scenic walk along the Kennet and Avon Canal
- Visit the Fashion Museum to explore historical and contemporary dress
- Take a boat trip on the River Avon for a unique perspective of the city.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Reading to Bath 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 FlixBus, 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 Reading to Bath.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Reading to Bath:
- 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 Reading to Bath:
- 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 Reading to Bath. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Reading to Bath with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Reading to Bath with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Reading to Bath with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express.
Since neither Reading nor Bath 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 Reading to Bath 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 Bath, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Roman Baths and city center. Avoid unlicensed taxi services and only use official transportation to prevent overcharging. Be aware of street performers or vendors pressuring for money, and watch out for scams involving fake charity collectors or ticket sellers. Staying vigilant in busy spots and keeping personal belongings secure helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Reading to Bath
Reading
Bath
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Car connection
Southgate StreetWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café and fast food options (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the station.
Accessibility
- Ramps, assistance
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Bath, Bus Station
- Bus: 1, 5, 21, 31 Train: Great Western Railway
Most popular bus connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Bath
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bath and Reading
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