- Must visit
Reading Museum
Reading's main museum, famed for the Bayeux Tapestry replica, local history, Huntley & Palmers displays, and Abbey galleries.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bournemouth to Reading
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 01
- Cheapest price on Nov 01
- $21
- Average ticket price on Nov 01
- $30
- Fastest journey on Nov 01
- 1 h 59 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 01
- 2 h 9 m
- Trains on Nov 01
- 2
- Distance
- 104 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bournemouth to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bournemouth to Reading will cost around $30 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $21.
Fast trains
On Sun, Nov 01, we found 2 trains from Bournemouth to Reading, including 2 direct services.
On Sun, Nov 01 the direct trains cover the 104 km distance in an average of 2 h 9 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 59 m .
On Sun, Nov 01 the slowest trains will take 2 h 18 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.
10:06 AM 1h59 Bournemouth 12:05 PM Reading $21 1 One-way 0 transfers10:40 AM 2h18 Bournemouth 12:58 PM Reading $40 1 One-way 0 transfers
10:06 AM 1h59 Bournemouth 12:05 PM Reading $21 1 One-way 0 transfers10:40 AM 2h18 Bournemouth 12:58 PM Reading $40 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bournemouth to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bournemouth to Reading run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 (€10) if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:12, the last at 23:38. The fastest train covers the 64 miles (104 km) distance in 1h 20m.
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 64 miles (104 km) |
Average train duration 1h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $12 (€10) |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 1h 20m |
First train 5:12 AM |
Last train 11:38 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Bournemouth to Reading trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Bournemouth to Reading.
Train ticket prices from Bournemouth to Reading can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $12 (€10), while the average price is around $43 (€36).
The train from Bournemouth to Reading takes 1h 20m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Bournemouth to Reading is 64 miles (104 km).
The first train from Bournemouth to Reading leaves at 5:12 AM.
The last train from Bournemouth to Reading leaves at 11:38 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bournemouth to Reading. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry.
Live departures
Bournemouth to Reading train times
The table below shows live departures for Bournemouth to Reading trains for today, Saturday, October 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XC010700 · G00873 | 11:20 AM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 1h46 | 1:06 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
 SW457700 · L80082 · L79953+ C03061 | On time 11:39 AM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 2h06 | 1:45 PM Reading West (RDW) | 3 transfers | |
| XC010600 · G00881 | On time 12:20 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 1h49 | 2:09 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| SW457500 · L80090 · L79959+C03066 | On time 12:39 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 2h06 | 2:45 PM Reading West (RDW) | 3 transfers | |
| XC010500 · G00886 | On time 1:20 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 1h45 | 3:05 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| SW457300 · L80100 · L79965+C03071 | 1:39 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 2h08 | 3:47 PM Reading West (RDW) | 3 transfers | |
| XC010400 · G00889 | On time 2:20 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 1h46 | 4:06 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| SW457100 · L80108 · L79971+C03076 | 2:39 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 2h06 | 4:45 PM Reading West (RDW) | 3 transfers | |
| XC010300 · G00896 | On time 3:20 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 1h46 | 5:06 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| SW456900 · L80118 · L79977+C03081 | 3:39 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 2h07 | 5:46 PM Reading West (RDW) | 3 transfers | |
| XC010200 · G00903 | 4:20 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 1h48 | 6:08 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| SW456700 · L80126 · L79983+C03086 | 4:39 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 2h06 | 6:45 PM Reading West (RDW) | 3 transfers | |
| XC010100 · G00910 | 5:20 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 1h48 | 7:08 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| SW073400 · L80136 · L79989+C03091 | On time 5:39 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 2h08 | 7:47 PM Reading West (RDW) | 3 transfers | |
| XC010000 · G00919 | 6:20 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 1h51 | 8:11 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| SW073200 · L80146 · L79995+C03096 | On time 6:39 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 2h06 | 8:45 PM Reading West (RDW) | 3 transfers | |
| XC009900 · G00926 | On time 7:20 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 1h46 | 9:06 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| SW073000 · L80156 · L84476+C03101 | On time 7:39 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 2h06 | 9:45 PM Reading West (RDW) | 3 transfers | |
| SW072900 · L80300+C03103 | On time 8:09 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 2h05 | 10:14 PM Reading West (RDW) | 2 transfers | |
| SW072800 · L78865 · L84478+C03105 | On time 8:39 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 2h06 | 10:45 PM Reading West (RDW) | 3 transfers | |
| SW072700 · L80316+C03107 | On time 9:09 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 2h09 | 11:18 PM Reading West (RDW) | 2 transfers | |
| SW072600 · L80328+C03109 | On time 9:39 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 2h03 | 11:42 PM Reading West (RDW) | 2 transfers | |
| Sunday, November 1 | |||||
| 10:06 AM Bournemouth | 1h59 | 12:05 PM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:40 AM Bournemouth | 2h18 | 12:58 PM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Bournemouth to Reading trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as South Western Railway offer trains services from Bournemouth to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bournemouth to Reading.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Bournemouth 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bournemouth to Reading.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Bournemouth to Reading.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bournemouth to Reading.
Train companies: CrossCountry, South Western Railway from Bournemouth to Reading trainsCrossCountry, South Western Railway trains will get you between Bournemouth and Reading from $12 (€10). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
1h 20m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$12 (€10)
CrossCountry frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
South Western Railway
About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average South Western Railway Duration
1h 26m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
$17 (€14)
South Western Railway frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Bournemouth and Reading
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
There is no high speed train available from Bournemouth to Reading.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bournemouth to Reading.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
Complete guide to Reading
Things to do in Reading
Discover the best of Reading — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Reading trip today.
- Must visit
The Museum of English Rural Life
Modern art gallery in the civic centre showing changing exhibitions by regional and national artists in a central, accessible space.
- Must visit
The Museum of English Rural Life
University museum with strong agriculture, countryside, and design collections. Popular for families and one of Reading's standout visits.
- Must visit
Forbury Gardens
Large central park with formal gardens, Thames views, and the iconic Maiwand Lion. A classic place to stroll or relax near downtown.
- Must visit
Reading Abbey Quarter
Historic quarter around the Abbey ruins, museum, and Forbury Gardens. Ideal for understanding Reading's origins on a compact walking route.
- Recommended
King's Meadow
Riverside nature reserve and meadow walk beside the Thames. Peaceful paths and wildlife make it a favorite local escape close to the centre.
Windsor Fish Pie
A Berkshire classic of smoked haddock in a creamy parsley sauce. Traditionally linked to Windsor and widely associated with the wider county.
- Vegetarian
Berkshire Lardy Cake
A rich fruit cake made with currants, butter, eggs, sugar and mixed spice. A long-standing Berkshire tea-time bake.
- Vegetarian
Sally Lunn Bun
A soft yeasted bun spiced with caraway and filled with currants, candied peel and sugar. Traditionally baked in Berkshire and nearby counties.
L'Ortolan
Polished fine dining restaurant known for seasonal British tasting menus and refined service in an elegant central Reading setting.
Bakery House
Popular Reading institution for Lebanese and Middle Eastern plates, known for generous mezze and a lively, casual atmosphere.
London Street Brasserie
Well-regarded independent restaurant serving British and European dishes with seasonal ingredients in a relaxed modern dining room.
Pound sterling (£)
Reading is pricier than many UK towns. Hotels and dining are above average, but rail and local buses are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10% for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up or tipped 10%. Cafes usually do not require tipping.
Reading Buses
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.90
To the city center
Reading Station -> Broad Street, Reading
- Distance
- 0.7 km
- Travel time
- 9 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Reading Buses, and fare capping can make multiple trips cheaper than buying separate tickets.
- Reading town centre is walkable from Reading Station; many central destinations are about 10 minutes on foot.
Plan your visit to Reading
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Reading.
The train journey from Bournemouth to Reading offers pleasant views of the English countryside, with stretches of green fields, rolling hills, and glimpses of small villages along the way.
Popular day trips by train from Reading include London, Oxford, Bracknell, Slough, Maidenhead.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Bournemouth to Reading
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bournemouth to Reading by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Reading, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Bournemouth to Reading.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Bournemouth to Reading
Most Bournemouth to Reading trains use the Bournemouth to Reading station pair, with some services arriving at Reading West. Use this guide to compare Bournemouth and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bournemouth
Arrival train stations in Reading
Which Bournemouth station do trains to Reading leave from?
Trains from Bournemouth to Reading leave from Bournemouth. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Bournemouth city centre at Bournemouth station, Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 8HX.
BournemouthBournemouth station, Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 8HX+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Bournemouth from Bournemouth city centre
Bournemouth is 1 km from Bournemouth city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus13, 5, 6, 50, m1, 12, 13A, N5, N1, 11, 21 · 6m · $3 · every ~74 min
m1, 5, 6, 50, 13, 12, 13A, 21, 11, N5, N1 · 7m · $3 · every ~74 min
Bournemouth train station facilities and services
Bournemouth has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bournemouth.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bournemouth.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bournemouth.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bournemouth: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bournemouth: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bournemouth: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B2 station. Level access to both sides of station from separate entrances. Long and steep ramped subway between platforms - up to 1:8 gradient Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Reading station do trains from Bournemouth arrive at?
Trains from Bournemouth to Reading most often arrive at Reading. Some services arrive at Reading West, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Reading arrival station.
ReadingReading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading from Reading city centre
Bus26, 90, 87 · 2m · $3 · every ~15 min
Reading train station facilities and services
Reading has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Reading.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Reading.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Reading.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Reading: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Reading: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: platforms can be reached via lift and bridge, ticket office is step free, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Accessible low-level Pay Phone is available at the station main concourse. Please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxi are available at the station entrance. please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office and at the car park, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Reading WestReading West station, Oxford Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 7PY
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading West from Reading city centre
Reading West is 1 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainReading - Basingstoke, Reading - Newbury, Reading - Bedwyn, London Paddington - Bedwyn · 2m · $2 · every ~6 min
Bus15, 15a, 16, 17, 91, 85, 88, 93, 43 · 4m · $3 · every ~49 min
Reading West train station facilities and services
Reading West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Reading West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Reading West.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Reading West: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Reading West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category B3 - This station has a degree of step free access but only to Platform 1 and only if accessed via Tilehurst Road. Otherwise this station can be classified as Category C. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Train stations for Bournemouth to Reading
Check train stations information for Bournemouth and Reading, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Bournemouth that goes to Reading is Bournemouth, which connects to Reading.
Most popular train connections from Bournemouth
More options for your journey from Bournemouth to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Bournemouth
Most popular train connections to Reading
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