2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Reading to Birmingham
Showing times and prices for May 06
Cheapest price
$61
Average price
$65
Fastest journey
4 h 7 m
Average duration
6 h 10 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
131 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Reading to Birmingham is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Birmingham will cost around $65 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $61.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Reading for Birmingham on Wed, May 06, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, May 06 the direct buses cover the 131 km distance in an average of 6 h 10 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 7 m .
On Wed, May 06 the slowest buses will take 10 h 7 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.
10:03 PM4h17Reading2:20 AMBirmingham$611One-way0 transfers- 8:33 PM4h07Reading12:40 AMBirmingham$671One-way0 transfers
- 11:03 PM10h07Reading9:10 AMBirmingham$671One-way0 transfers
- 8:33 PM4h07Reading12:40 AMBirmingham$671One-way0 transfers
- 10:03 PM4h17Reading2:20 AMBirmingham$611One-way0 transfers
- 11:03 PM10h07Reading9:10 AMBirmingham$671One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Reading to Birmingham
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Reading to Birmingham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 52m. 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 train costs an average of $17, and a bus costs an average of $24.
Distance: 81 miles (131 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train |
|---|---|
$66 Average price | $54 Average price Cheapest |
2h 51m Average total duration 2h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 22m Average total duration Fastest 1h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Reading to Birmingham Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:55AM | Arrival Time 10:10AM | Duration 4h15 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $97 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:55AM | Arrival Time 11:25AM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $124 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:04AM | Arrival Time 11:25AM | Duration 4h21 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $117 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:21AM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 4h54 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $117 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:25AM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $124 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:23AM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 4h57 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $124 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:25AM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $117 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:43AM | Arrival Time 04:45PM | Duration 5h02 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $124 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 04:45PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $117 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:43PM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 4h42 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $124 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $112 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:03PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 4h27 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $124 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 07:55PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $112 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 09:15PM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $117 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:23PM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 4h37 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $124 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:43PM | Arrival Time 10:20PM | Duration 4h37 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $97 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:50PM | Arrival Time 10:55PM | Duration 4h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $104 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:20PM | Arrival Time 12:10AM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $124 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:31PM | Arrival Time 12:10AM | Duration 4h39 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $117 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:03PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 4h42 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $117 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:03PM | Arrival Time 03:20AM | Duration 4h17 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $117 |
Live departures
Reading to Birmingham bus times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Birmingham buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, May 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:33 PM Reading | 4h07 | 12:40 AM Birmingham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:03 PM Reading | 4h17 | 2:20 AM Birmingham | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Reading to Birmingham 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.
Wed
May 06
May 06
Thu
May 07
May 07
Fri
May 08
May 08
Sat
May 09
May 09
Sun
May 10
May 10
Mon
May 11
May 11
Tue
May 12
May 12
Why should you book Reading to Birmingham buses with Omio?
Megabus operates all buses services from Reading to Birmingham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Birmingham.
Why book with Omio vs Megabus?
- 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 Reading to Birmingham.
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 Reading to Birmingham.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Reading to Birmingham
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Reading to Birmingham run on average 12 times per day, taking around 2h 21m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $24 (€20) but you can travel from only $17 (€13) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 81 miles (131 km) distance in 4h 7m.
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 $17 (€13)
Distance 81 miles (131 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price $24 (€20) |
Buses per day 12 |
Fastest bus 4h 7m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 $17 (€13)
Bus providers: Megabus from Reading to BirminghamYou can travel by bus between Reading to Birmingham with Megabus for as low as $17 (€13). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
2h 25m
Cheapest Price
$19 (€15)
Megabus frequency
2 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.
Entertaiment on board
FAQs: Bus from Reading to Birmingham
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Birmingham 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 Birmingham, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Reading to Birmingham can start from as little as $24 (€20) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Reading to Birmingham is $66 (€53) ; 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 Birmingham is 4h 7m to travel the 81 miles (131 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 Birmingham leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Reading to Birmingham leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 12 buses a day from Reading to Birmingham which require at least one change with Megabus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Reading to Birmingham, you can count on Megabus for the best way to get you to Birmingham. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Reading and Birmingham and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Reading , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Reading, Blagrave Street, Three Mile Cross, Mereoak Lane - Park & Ride . When arriving in Birmingham , you can end your journey in bus stations like Birmingham, Coach Station, Birmingham, Comet Road (Airport), Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway, Birmingham, Hagley Road West, Coventry, Pool Meadow Bus Station, Birmingham .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Reading, Blagrave Street, which is located around 0 away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Birmingham, Coach Station, located 1 away from the city centre.
A trip to Birmingham from Reading is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 7m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Reading to Birmingham is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Birmingham including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Reading to Birmingham:
- Megabus
- Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Reading to Birmingham for bus company Megabus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Birmingham are:
- Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, a cultural institution housing a vast collection of art and historical artifacts
- Cadbury World, an interactive chocolate-themed attraction offering tours and exhibits
- Birmingham Botanical Gardens, a serene 15-acre garden featuring exotic plants and glasshouses
- Symphony Hall, a renowned concert venue known for its exceptional acoustics and diverse performances
- The Bullring, a major shopping center with a wide range of retail outlets and dining options.
The best things to do in Birmingham include:
- Explore the historic Jewellery Quarter, known for its unique shops and vibrant atmosphere
- Take a canal boat tour to see the city from a different perspective
- Visit the National SEA LIFE Centre, home to a variety of marine life and interactive exhibits
- Enjoy a performance at the Birmingham Hippodrome, one of the busiest theatres in the UK
- Discover the rich history of the city at the Birmingham Back to Backs, a preserved 19th-century courtyard of working people's houses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Reading to Birmingham 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.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Reading to Birmingham.
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 Birmingham.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Reading to Birmingham:
- 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).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Reading to Birmingham:
- 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.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Reading to Birmingham.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Reading to Birmingham with the following bus company: Megabus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Reading to Birmingham with the following bus company: Megabus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Reading to Birmingham with the following bus company: Megabus.
Since neither Reading nor Birmingham 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 Reading to Birmingham 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 Birmingham, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like shopping districts and public transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, keep valuables secure, and remain alert in crowded places to avoid these risks.
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 Birmingham
Reading
Birmingham
The major bus station for departures 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 from Reading to Birmingham.
Reading, Blagrave Street
Amenities at bus station
Accessibilityinformation
Accessibility
- The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible
The major bus station for arrivals in Birmingham is Birmingham, Coach Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Birmingham, Coach Station for your trip to Birmingham from Reading.
Birmingham, Coach Station
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Distance to city center
1 km
Car connection
Mill LaneWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafeteria and fast-food options inside the station
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Birmingham, Coach Station
- Bus: 97, 97A, X1, X2 Train: Birmingham New Street
Birmingham, Comet Road (Airport)
information
Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway
Most popular bus connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Birmingham
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Birmingham and Reading
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
