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 Southampton to Reading
Showing times and prices for Jun 19
Cheapest price
$68
Average price
$69
Fastest journey
2 h 45 m
Average duration
2 h 51 m
Buses per day
14
Distance
68 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Southampton to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Reading will cost around $69 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $68.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Southampton to Reading without transferring at least once.
NX032 · RRRA15:20 PM3h27Southampton, Coach Station8:47 PMReading, Blagrave Street$681One-way1 transfer- NX032 · RRRA12:30 PM3h01Southampton, Coach Station5:31 PMReading, Blagrave Street$681One-way1 transfer
- NX032 · RRRA17:00 PM2h47Southampton, Coach Station9:47 PMReading, Blagrave Street$681One-way1 transfer
- NX032 · RRRA17:30 AM3h15Southampton, Coach Station10:45 AMReading, Blagrave Street$681One-way1 transfer
- NX032 · RRRA16:25 AM3h00Southampton, Coach Station9:25 AMReading, Blagrave Street$681One-way1 transfer
- NX032 · RRRA18:30 PM2h45Southampton, Coach Station11:15 PMReading, Blagrave Street$681One-way1 transfer
- NX032 · RRRA17:00 PM2h47Southampton, Coach Station9:47 PMReading, Blagrave Street$681One-way1 transfer
- NX032 · RRRA19:15 AM2h50Southampton, Coach Station12:05 PMReading, Blagrave Street$741One-way1 transfer
- NX032 · RRRA11:15 PM2h54Southampton, Coach Station4:09 PMReading, Blagrave Street$681One-way1 transfer
- NX032 · RRRA16:25 AM3h00Southampton, Coach Station9:25 AMReading, Blagrave Street$681One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Southampton to Reading
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $10. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 57m. 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 $10, and a bus costs an average of $28.
Distance: 42 miles (68 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$71 Average price | $25 Average price Cheapest | $18 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 52m Average total duration 2h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 27m Average total duration Fastest 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 17m 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 Southampton to Reading is a train with an average price of $25 (€20).
This is compared to other travel options from Southampton to Reading:
A train is $46 (€38) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Southampton to Reading costing on average $71 (€58).
The fastest way to travel from Southampton to Reading is by train with an average journey time of 57m.
Other travel options to Reading take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 22m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Reading including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton to Reading 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.
Southampton to Reading Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:05AM | Arrival Time 05:11AM | Duration 3h06 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:15AM | Arrival Time 07:15AM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:05AM | Arrival Time 08:17AM | Duration 3h12 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:25AM | Arrival Time 08:11AM | Duration 2h46 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:25AM | Arrival Time 09:25AM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:45AM | Arrival Time 09:43AM | Duration 2h58 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $80 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 10:45AM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator South Western Railway | Departure Time 07:38AM | Arrival Time 09:52AM | Duration 2h14 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 10:45AM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 02:06PM | Duration 3h21 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 03:28PM | Duration 3h13 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 04:09PM | Duration 2h54 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 05:09PM | Duration 3h09 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $72 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 05:31PM | Duration 3h01 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 06:05PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $77 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 06:09PM | Duration 3h09 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20PM | Arrival Time 06:46PM | Duration 3h26 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:20PM | Arrival Time 08:47PM | Duration 3h27 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 08:47PM | Duration 3h17 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 08:47PM | Duration 2h47 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 09:17PM | Duration 2h47 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 09:47PM | Duration 2h47 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 11:15PM | Duration 2h45 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $65 |
Live departures
Southampton to Reading bus times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Reading buses for tomorrow, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX032 · RRRA1 | 2:05 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 3h06 | 5:11 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · RRRA1 | 4:15 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 3h00 | 7:15 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · RRRA1 | 5:05 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 3h12 | 8:17 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · RRRA1 | 6:25 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 3h00 | 9:25 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · RRRA1 | 7:30 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 3h15 | 10:45 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · RRRA1 | 9:15 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 2h50 | 12:05 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · RRRA1 | 10:45 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 3h21 | 2:06 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · RRRA1 | 12:15 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 3h13 | 3:28 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · RRRA1 | 1:15 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 2h54 | 4:09 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · RRRA1 | 2:30 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 3h01 | 5:31 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · RRRA1 | 3:20 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 3h26 | 6:46 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · RRRA1 | 5:20 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 3h27 | 8:47 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · RRRA1 | 7:00 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 2h47 | 9:47 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · RRRA1 | 8:30 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 2h45 | 11:15 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Reading 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.
Fri
Jun 19
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Why should you book Southampton to Reading buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Unilink offer buses services from Southampton to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Reading.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Unilink to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Reading.
- 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 Southampton 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 Southampton to Reading.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Southampton to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Southampton to Reading run on average 12 times per day, taking around 2h 22m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $28 (€23) but you can travel from only $10 (€8) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 02:00, the last at 23:34. The fastest bus covers the 42 miles (68 km) distance in 2h 9m.
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 $10 (€8)
Distance 42 miles (68 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price $28 (€23) |
Buses per day 12 |
Fastest bus 2h 9m |
First bus 2:00 AM |
Last bus 11:34 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 49 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 $10 (€8)
Bus providers: National Express, Unilink from Southampton to ReadingYou can travel by bus between Southampton to Reading with National Express, Unilink for as low as $10 (€8). 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 41m
Cheapest Price
$57 (€47)
National Express frequency
10 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.
Unilink
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 8m
Cheapest Price
$74 (€61)
Unilink frequency
3 a day
FAQs: Bus from Southampton to Reading
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Southampton to Reading can start from as little as $28 (€23) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Southampton to Reading is $71 (€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 Southampton to Reading is 2h 9m 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 Southampton to Reading leaves at 2:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Southampton to Reading leaves at 11:34 PM.
There are 12 buses a day from Southampton to Reading which require at least one change with National Express, Unilink. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Southampton to Reading, you can count on National Express, Unilink for the best way to get you to Reading. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Southampton and Reading and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Southampton , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Southampton, Coach Station, Southampton, University . When arriving in Reading , you can end your journey in bus stations like Reading, Blagrave Street, Three Mile Cross, Mereoak Lane - Park & Ride .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Southampton, Coach Station, 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.
A trip to Reading from Southampton is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 9m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Southampton to Reading is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Reading including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Southampton to Reading:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Southampton to Reading for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Southampton 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 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 Southampton to Reading.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Southampton 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 Southampton to Reading:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Southampton to Reading.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Southampton to Reading with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Southampton to Reading with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Southampton to Reading with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Southampton nor Reading 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 Southampton to Reading 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 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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Southampton to Reading
Southampton
Reading
The major bus station for departures in Southampton is Southampton, Coach Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Southampton, Coach Station for your trip from Southampton to Reading.
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Car connection
Harbour ParadeWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café Express (in the station)
- Sandwich Bar (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the station
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available near the entrance
Public transit options for Southampton, Coach Station
- Bus: U1, U2, U6, X4 Train: South Western Railway
Southampton, University
information
The major bus station for arrivals 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 to Reading from Southampton.
Reading, Blagrave Street
Amenities at bus station
Accessibilityinformation
Accessibility
- The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible
Most popular bus connections from Southampton
More options for your journey from Southampton to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Reading and Southampton
Most popular bus connections to 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.
