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Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
Major city museum and gallery with fine art, Birmingham history and global collections in a landmark building.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Reading to Birmingham
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
€35
Average price
€59
Fastest journey
4 h 7 m
Average duration
5 h 56 m
Buses per day
4
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 €59 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €35.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Reading for Birmingham on Wed, Aug 05, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct buses cover the 131 km distance in an average of 5 h 56 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 7 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 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.
11:03 PM10h07Reading9:10 AMBirmingham€351One-way0 transfers- 8:33 PM4h07Reading12:40 AMBirmingham€511One-way0 transfers
- 2:05 PM4h50Reading6:55 PMBirmingham€741One-way0 transfers
- 6:31 PM4h39Reading11:10 PMBirmingham€771One-way0 transfers
- 8:33 PM4h07Reading12:40 AMBirmingham€511One-way0 transfers
- 6:31 PM4h39Reading11:10 PMBirmingham€771One-way0 transfers
- 2:05 PM4h50Reading6:55 PMBirmingham€741One-way0 transfers
- 11:03 PM10h07Reading9:10 AMBirmingham€351One-way0 transfers
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 22m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €12 but you can travel from only €12 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 €12
Distance 81 miles (131 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price €12 |
Buses per day 12 |
Fastest bus 4h 7m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Thu |
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 €12
Reading to Birmingham Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:55AM | Arrival Time 09:15AM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price €92 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:57AM | Arrival Time 09:10AM | Duration 4h13 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €69 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:55AM | Arrival Time 10:15AM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:55AM | Arrival Time 11:25AM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:04AM | Arrival Time 11:25AM | Duration 4h21 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:21AM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 4h54 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:25AM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:23AM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 4h57 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:25AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 5h05 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:43AM | Arrival Time 04:45PM | Duration 5h02 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:43PM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 4h42 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:05PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price €74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:03PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 4h27 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 07:55PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 09:15PM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:23PM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 4h37 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:43PM | Arrival Time 09:20PM | Duration 4h37 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price €58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:43PM | Arrival Time 10:20PM | Duration 4h37 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price €40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:31PM | Arrival Time 11:10PM | Duration 4h39 | Departure days Wed, Fri | Cheapest price €40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:50PM | Arrival Time 10:55PM | Duration 4h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:20PM | Arrival Time 12:10AM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:31PM | Arrival Time 12:10AM | Duration 4h39 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:33PM | Arrival Time 12:40AM | Duration 4h07 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price €51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:03PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 4h42 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:03PM | Arrival Time 02:20AM | Duration 4h17 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price €48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:03PM | Arrival Time 09:10AM | Duration 10h07 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €35 |
Live departures
Reading to Birmingham bus times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Birmingham buses for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:55 AM Reading | 4h20 | 9:15 AM Birmingham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:43 PM Reading | 4h37 | 9:20 PM Birmingham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:03 PM Reading | 4h17 | 2:20 AM Birmingham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:03 PM Reading | 10h07 | 9:10 AM Birmingham | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Bus providers: Megabus from Reading to BirminghamYou can travel by bus between Reading to Birmingham with Megabus for as low as €12. 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
€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
Complete guide to Birmingham
Things to do in Birmingham
Discover the best of Birmingham — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Birmingham trip today.
- Must visit
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
Science museum with interactive galleries, engines and family-friendly exhibits in Millennium Point.
- Recommended
The Barber Institute of Fine Arts
Historic home of the Pre-Raphaelite artists, showing furnished rooms, artworks and craft details.
- Must visit
Brindleyplace
Restored canal-side quarter with waterside walks, bars, heritage buildings and easy access to major venues.
- Must visit
Gas Street Basin
Lively canal junction area with historic warehouses, footbridges and one of Birmingham's best urban walks.
- Must visit
Digbeth
Creative district known for street art, independent culture, music heritage and alternative city energy.
- Gluten-free
Balti
A rich curry style developed by Birmingham's South Asian community, often cooked with green chillies, coriander and onions. It is the city's signature dish.
- Vegetarian
Chaat
A spicy Indian snack of potato, chickpeas, noodles, chutneys and crisp pastry pieces. Popular in Birmingham's Pakistani and Indian food culture.
- Vegetarian
Paratha
A flaky layered flatbread, often served with curry at breakfast or late-night eateries in the city. A staple in Birmingham's South Asian dining scene.
Opheem
Michelin-starred fine dining by Aktar Islam, known for modern Indian tasting menus in an elegant canal-side setting.
Adam's
Refined modern British restaurant with inventive tasting menus and polished service in a smart city-centre dining room.
Jyoti's Restaurant
Celebrated Indian vegetarian restaurant in Sparkbrook, loved for dosas, chaats and sweets in a busy casual setting.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for UK city breaks: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transit and casual meals are fairly manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included in restaurants; otherwise tip 10-12.5% for good service. Taxis are often rounded up or tipped about 10%. Tipping in cafes is optional.
TfWM
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Birmingham Coach Station -> Birmingham New Street, Birmingham
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless payment is widely accepted on National Express West Midlands buses and West Midlands Metro trams.
- Use Swift or contactless daily capping where available to avoid paying more than the best value adult fare.
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 €12 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Reading to Birmingham is €58 ; 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, Great Charles Street Queensway, Birmingham, Comet Road (Airport), Birmingham, Birmingham, Hagley Road West, Coventry, Pool Meadow Bus Station .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Reading, Blagrave Street, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Birmingham, Coach Station, located 1 away from the city centre.
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.
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.
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
Most Reading to Birmingham buses use the Reading, Blagrave Street to Birmingham, Coach Station station pair, with some services arriving at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway. Use this guide to compare Reading and Birmingham bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Reading
Arrival bus stations in Birmingham
Which Reading station do buses to Birmingham leave from?
Buses from Reading to Birmingham leave from Reading, Blagrave Street. The station is from Reading city centre at Reading RG1 1PZ, UK.
Reading, Blagrave StreetReading RG1 1PZ, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading, Blagrave Street from Reading city centre
Bus19a, 19c · 1h 21m · €2
Reading, Blagrave Street bus station facilities and services
Reading, Blagrave Street has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading, Blagrave Street: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Which Birmingham station do buses from Reading arrive at?
Buses from Reading to Birmingham most often arrive at Birmingham, Coach Station. Some services arrive at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Birmingham arrival station.
Birmingham, Coach StationMill Lane, Digbeth, Birmingham, B5 6DD, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham, Coach Station from Birmingham city centre
Birmingham, Coach Station is 1 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus4, 97, 6, X2, 3, 97A, 2, 4A, 5, X1 · 4m · €2 · every ~191 min
X2, 4A, X1, 2, 3, 6, 4, 5 · 13m · €2 · every ~149 min
Birmingham, Coach Station bus station facilities and services
Birmingham, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria and fast-food options inside the station
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Birmingham, Coach Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham, Coach Station: Elevators, ramps.
Birmingham, Great Charles Street QueenswayBirmingham Great Charles Street Queensway, Great Charles Street Queensway 145, B3 3LT
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway from Birmingham city centre
Bus822, X8, 12, 24, 126, 13, 23, X10, 829, 9 · 2m · €2 · every ~153 min
Birmingham, Comet Road (Airport)
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham, Comet Road (Airport) from Birmingham city centre
TrainRugeley Trent Valley - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - Coventry, Birmingham New Street - Northampton, Walsall - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Milton Keynes Central, Birmingham New Street - Rugby, Liverpool Lime Street - Coventry, Wolverhampton - Birmingham International, Liverpool Lime Street - Birmingham International · 14m · €5 · every ~8 min
BusUk920, Uk025 · 25m · €1
X1 · 27m · €4 · every ~5 min
X1 · 29m · €4 · every ~5 min
X12 · 1h 10m · €4 · every ~8 min
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
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