Reading to Southampton bus with National Express

Sat, Jun 20
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Reading to Southampton

Showing times and prices for Jun 20

Cheapest price

$71

Average price

$75

Fastest journey

2 h 55 m

Average duration

3 h 1 m

Buses per day

14

Distance

68 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Reading to Southampton will cost around $75 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $71.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Reading to Southampton without transferring at least once.

  • National ExpressRRRA1 · NX032
    11:03 PM3h57
    Reading, Blagrave Street
    3:00 AMSouthampton, Coach Station
    $711One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressRRRA1 · NX032
    9:03 PM3h02
    Reading, Blagrave Street
    12:05 AMSouthampton, Coach Station
    $711One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressRRRA1 · NX032
    10:03 PM3h27
    Reading, Blagrave Street
    1:30 AMSouthampton, Coach Station
    $711One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressRRRA1 · NX032
    7:20 PM3h25
    Reading, Blagrave Street
    10:45 PMSouthampton, Coach Station
    $711One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressRRRA1 · NX032
    6:50 PM3h00
    Reading, Blagrave Street
    9:50 PMSouthampton, Coach Station
    $711One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Reading to Southampton

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 56m. 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 $9, and a bus costs an average of $9.

Distance: 42 miles (68 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$67

Average price

$24

Average price

Cheapest

$18

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 20m

Average total duration

2h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 26m

Average total duration

Fastest

56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 20m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

National Express

Most popular bus company

CrossCountry

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 Southampton is a train with an average price of $24 (€19).

This is compared to other travel options from Reading to Southampton:

A train is $44 (€36) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Reading to Southampton costing on average $67 (€55).

The fastest way to travel from Reading to Southampton is by train with an average journey time of 56m.

Other travel options to Southampton take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 50m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Southampton including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Southampton among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.

You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). 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 {directProviders}.

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 Southampton Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:25AM
Arrival Time
08:30AM
Duration
3h05
Departure days
Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
$76
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:25AM
Arrival Time
09:50AM
Duration
3h25
Departure days
Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$71
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:27AM
Arrival Time
09:50AM
Duration
3h23
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:21AM
Arrival Time
11:20AM
Duration
2h59
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$71
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:25AM
Arrival Time
11:20AM
Duration
2h55
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$81
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:27AM
Arrival Time
11:20AM
Duration
2h53
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$83
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:44AM
Arrival Time
12:50PM
Duration
3h06
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:45AM
Arrival Time
12:50PM
Duration
3h05
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:57AM
Arrival Time
12:50PM
Duration
2h53
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$83
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:23AM
Arrival Time
01:50PM
Duration
3h27
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$79
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:25AM
Arrival Time
02:05PM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$74
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:56AM
Arrival Time
01:50PM
Duration
2h54
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$83
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:43AM
Arrival Time
02:50PM
Duration
3h07
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$79
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:45AM
Arrival Time
03:00PM
Duration
3h15
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:56AM
Arrival Time
02:50PM
Duration
2h54
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$74
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:56PM
Arrival Time
04:20PM
Duration
3h24
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:03PM
Arrival Time
04:20PM
Duration
3h17
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:05PM
Arrival Time
05:05PM
Duration
4h00
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$71
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:23PM
Arrival Time
06:00PM
Duration
3h37
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:56PM
Arrival Time
06:00PM
Duration
3h04
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:05PM
Arrival Time
06:25PM
Duration
3h20
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$74
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:20PM
Arrival Time
07:40PM
Duration
3h20
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$71
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:23PM
Arrival Time
07:50PM
Duration
3h27
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:26PM
Arrival Time
07:50PM
Duration
3h24
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:43PM
Arrival Time
09:00PM
Duration
3h17
Departure days
Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$64
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:49PM
Arrival Time
08:50PM
Duration
3h01
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$74
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:56PM
Arrival Time
08:50PM
Duration
2h54
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$74
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:50PM
Arrival Time
09:50PM
Duration
3h00
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$71
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:56PM
Arrival Time
09:50PM
Duration
2h54
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$74
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:01PM
Arrival Time
09:50PM
Duration
2h49
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$71
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:20PM
Arrival Time
10:45PM
Duration
3h25
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$71
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:31PM
Arrival Time
10:45PM
Duration
3h14
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$71
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:56PM
Arrival Time
10:45PM
Duration
2h49
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$71
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:03PM
Arrival Time
12:05AM
Duration
3h02
Departure days
Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$68
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:03PM
Arrival Time
02:00AM
Duration
3h57
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$65
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:03PM
Arrival Time
03:00AM
Duration
3h57
Departure days
Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$69

Live departures

Reading to Southampton bus times

The table below shows live departures for Reading to Southampton buses for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressRRRA1 · NX03210:25 AM Reading, Blagrave Street
3h40
2:05 PM Southampton, Coach Station1 transfer
National ExpressRRRA1 · NX03211:45 AM Reading, Blagrave Street
3h15
3:00 PM Southampton, Coach Station1 transfer
National ExpressRRRA1 · NX0321:05 PM Reading, Blagrave Street
4h00
5:05 PM Southampton, Coach Station1 transfer
National ExpressRRRA1 · NX0323:05 PM Reading, Blagrave Street
3h20
6:25 PM Southampton, Coach Station1 transfer
National ExpressRRRA1 · NX0324:20 PM Reading, Blagrave Street
3h20
7:40 PM Southampton, Coach Station1 transfer
National ExpressRRRA1 · NX0325:43 PM Reading, Blagrave Street
2h57
8:40 PM Southampton, Coach Station1 transfer
National ExpressRRRA1 · NX0327:01 PM Reading, Blagrave Street
2h49
9:50 PM Southampton, Coach Station1 transfer
National ExpressRRRA1 · NX0327:31 PM Reading, Blagrave Street
3h14
10:45 PM Southampton, Coach Station1 transfer
National ExpressRRRA1 · NX0329:03 PM Reading, Blagrave Street
3h02
12:05 AM Southampton, Coach Station1 transfer
National ExpressRRRA1 · NX03210:03 PM Reading, Blagrave Street
3h27
1:30 AM Southampton, Coach Station1 transfer
National ExpressRRRA1 · NX03211:03 PM Reading, Blagrave Street
3h57
3:00 AM Southampton, Coach Station1 transfer
Saturday, June 20
National ExpressRRRA1 · NX032
On time
6:25 AM Reading, Blagrave Street
3h25
9:50 AM Southampton, Coach Station
1 transfer
National ExpressRRRA1 · NX032
On time
8:25 AM Reading, Blagrave Street
2h55
11:20 AM Southampton, Coach Station
1 transfer
National ExpressRRRA1 · NX032
On time
9:44 AM Reading, Blagrave Street
3h06
12:50 PM Southampton, Coach 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 Southampton 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
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26

Why should you book Reading to Southampton buses with Omio?

National Express operates all buses services from Reading to Southampton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Southampton.

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 Reading to Southampton.

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 Southampton.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Reading to Southampton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Reading to Southampton run on average 12 times per day, taking around 2h 50m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $9 (€7) but you can travel from only $9 (€7) by train.

The earliest bus runs at 02:00, the last at 23:37. The fastest bus covers the 42 miles (68 km) distance in 1h 44m.

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 $9 (€7)
Distance
42 miles (68 km)
Average bus duration
2h 50m
Cheapest ticket price
$9 (€7)
Buses per day
12
Fastest bus
1h 44m
First bus
2:00 AM
Last bus
11:37 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
21 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 $9 (€7)

Bus providers: National Express from Reading to SouthamptonYou can travel by bus between Reading to Southampton with National Express for as low as $9 (€7). 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 Duration
2h 49m
Cheapest Price
$64 (€53)
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 Southampton

Things to do in Southampton

Discover the best of Southampton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Southampton trip today.

  • Must visit

SeaCity Museum

Modern city museum focused on Southampton’s maritime history, including the Titanic story and the city’s role as a major port.

  • Must visit

Tudor House and Garden

Restored historic house museum in the Old Town, presenting over 800 years of local history in atmospheric rooms and gardens.

  • Recommended

Solent Sky Museum

Aviation museum with historic aircraft and exhibits on flying boat and regional aviation heritage.

Pound Sterling

Moderate by UK standards. Pub meals and chains are reasonable, while hotels and waterfront dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.

Tipping culture

Around 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not included. Round up in taxis. Small tips are optional in cafes, pubs, and for hotel staff.

FAQs: Bus from Reading to Southampton

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Southampton 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 Southampton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Reading to Southampton can start from as little as $9 (€7) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Reading to Southampton is $67 (€55) ; 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 Southampton is 1h 44m to travel the 42 miles (68 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 Southampton leaves at 2:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Reading to Southampton leaves at 11:37 PM.
There are 12 buses a day from Reading to Southampton which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Reading to Southampton, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Southampton. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Reading and Southampton 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 Southampton , you can end your journey in bus stations like Southampton, Coach Station, Southampton, University .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 Southampton, Coach Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
A day trip to Southampton from Reading is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 44m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Reading to Southampton is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Southampton including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Reading to Southampton:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Reading to Southampton for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Southampton are:
  • Tudor House and Garden, a historic museum offering insights into Southampton's past with exhibits and a restored garden
  • SeaCity Museum, an interactive museum focusing on Southampton's maritime history and the Titanic
  • Southampton City Art Gallery, featuring an extensive collection of art from the Renaissance to contemporary works
  • Solent Sky Museum, showcasing aviation history with a focus on the region's contributions to aircraft development
  • Mayflower Theatre, a prominent venue hosting a variety of performances including musicals, opera, and ballet.
The best things to do in Southampton include:
  • New Forest National Park, a nearby natural reserve ideal for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting
  • Hythe Ferry, offering a scenic boat trip across Southampton Water to the charming village of Hythe
  • Westquay Shopping Centre, a major retail destination with a wide range of shops and dining options
  • Ocean Village Marina, a vibrant waterfront area with restaurants, bars, and leisure activities
  • Southampton Common, a large public park perfect for picnics, walks, and outdoor events.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Reading to Southampton 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 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 Southampton.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Reading to Southampton:
  • 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 Reading to Southampton:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Reading to Southampton.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Reading to Southampton with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Reading to Southampton with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Reading to Southampton with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Reading nor Southampton 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 Southampton 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 Southampton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and near the port. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour operators offering poor services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official ticket vendors for transportation. Staying vigilant in crowded places and securing personal belongings can help 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 Southampton

Reading
Southampton
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 Southampton.
Reading, Blagrave StreetAccessibility
Amenities at bus station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible

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