Brighton to Reading train with Thameslink

Tue, Nov 03
+ Add return
Great Western Railway
Thameslink
Gatwick Express
South Western Railway
Southern
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
Thameslink
Gatwick Express
South Western Railway
Southern
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Brighton to Reading

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
Cheapest price on Nov 03
$72
Average ticket price on Nov 03
$90
Fastest journey on Nov 03
2 h 6 m
Average journey duration on Nov 03
2 h 9 m
Trains on Nov 03
20
Distance
91 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Brighton to Reading will cost around $90 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $72.

Fast trains

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

  • ThameslinkW45432+Great Western RailwayG15136
    1 transfer
  • ThameslinkW45474+Great Western RailwayG15135
    1 transfer
  • ThameslinkW45405+Great Western RailwayG15142
    1 transfer
  • ThameslinkW45464+Great Western RailwayG15143
    1 transfer
  • Great Western RailwayG15155+Gatwick ExpressG77366
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Brighton to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Brighton to Reading run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 but you can travel from only $43 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:19, the last at 23:33. The fastest train covers the 56 miles (91 km) distance in 1h 43m.

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
Bus from $43
Distance
56 miles (91 km)
Average train duration
1h 57m
Cheapest ticket price
$50
Trains per day
9
Fastest train
1h 43m
First train
12:19 AM
Last train
11:33 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
5 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
Bus from $43

Frequently asked questions about your Brighton to Reading trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Brighton to Reading.

Train ticket prices from Brighton to Reading can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $50, while the average price is around $74.
The train from Brighton to Reading takes 1h 43m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Brighton to Reading is 56 miles (91 km).
The first train from Brighton to Reading leaves at 12:19 AM.
The last train from Brighton to Reading leaves at 11:33 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Brighton to Reading.

Live departures

Brighton to Reading train times

The table below shows live departures for Brighton to Reading trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
ThameslinkW45465+Great Western RailwayG151256:09 AM Brighton station (BTN)
2h23
8:32 AM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
ThameslinkW45465+Great Western RailwayW34782+Elizabeth lineC384346:09 AM Brighton station (BTN)
2h17
8:26 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45605+Elizabeth lineC38475+Great Western RailwayW348656:26 AM Brighton station (BTN)
2h20
8:46 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45605+South Western RailwayL80601+SouthernC823366:26 AM Brighton station (BTN)
2h48
9:14 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45437+Elizabeth lineC372466:39 AM Brighton station (BTN)
2h32
9:11 AM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
ThameslinkW45437+Elizabeth lineC37246+Great Western RailwayG149546:39 AM Brighton station (BTN)
2h14
8:53 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45474+Elizabeth lineC38228+Great Western RailwayG1496312:14 PM Brighton station (BTN)
2h09
2:23 PM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45474+Great Western RailwayG1513512:14 PM Brighton station (BTN)
2h13
2:27 PM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
ThameslinkW45372+Elizabeth lineC37296+Great Western RailwayW3489412:28 PM Brighton station (BTN)
2h18
2:46 PM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45432+Great Western RailwayG1513612:44 PM Brighton station (BTN)
2h13
2:57 PM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
ThameslinkW45432+Great Western RailwayG14964+Elizabeth lineC3826412:44 PM Brighton station (BTN)
2h09
2:53 PM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45536+Great Western RailwayY15425+Elizabeth lineC3730912:58 PM Brighton station (BTN)
2h19
3:17 PM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45405+Elizabeth lineC37252+Great Western RailwayG149673:44 PM Brighton station (BTN)
2h09
5:53 PM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45405+Great Western RailwayG151423:44 PM Brighton station (BTN)
2h18
6:02 PM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
ThameslinkW45438+Great Western RailwayY15431+Elizabeth lineC385473:58 PM Brighton station (BTN)
2h23
6:21 PM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45464+Elizabeth lineC37265+Great Western RailwayW347264:14 PM Brighton station (BTN)
2h10
6:24 PM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45464+Great Western RailwayG151434:14 PM Brighton station (BTN)
2h18
6:32 PM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
ThameslinkG28272+Elizabeth lineC38593+Great Western RailwayC010164:28 PM Brighton station (BTN)
2h21
6:49 PM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Brighton to Reading trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as Thameslink, Gatwick Express, South Western Railway, Southern and more offer trains services from Brighton to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Brighton to Reading.

Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink, Gatwick Express, South Western Railway or Southern to find the best option for your trip from Brighton 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Brighton to Reading.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink, Gatwick Express, South Western Railway or Southern to find the best option for your trip from Brighton to Reading.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Brighton to Reading.

Train companies: Thameslink, Great Western Railway, Southern, South Western Railway, Gatwick Express from Brighton to Reading trainsThameslink, Great Western Railway, Southern, South Western Railway, Gatwick Express trains will get you between Brighton and Reading from $43. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Great Western Railway

About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
1h 58m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$50
Great Western Railway frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Southern

About
Southern Rail is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local commuter services. Its trains include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, and Class 444 and 450. It also offers a variety of ticket types, such as Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southern Rail are London to Brighton, London to Southampton, and London to Portsmouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Southern Duration
1h 52m
Cheapest Southern Price
$85
Southern frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require a 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
2h 17m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
$70
South Western Railway frequency
1 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

Thameslink

About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Thameslink Duration
1h 43m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
$61
Thameslink frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Gatwick Express

About
Gatwick Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport, with trains running every 15 minutes throughout the day. The trains are modern and comfortable, with air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi. There are two types of trains: the Gatwick Express and the Southern service. The Gatwick Express is the fastest service, taking just 30 minutes to reach the airport. The Southern service takes a few minutes longer but offers more stops along the way.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Gatwick Express Duration
1h 45m
Cheapest Gatwick Express Price
$87
Gatwick Express frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack trolley service available on some services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, staff assistance for boarding and alighting
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead.

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Brighton and Reading

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train from Brighton to Reading.
Yes, there is a night train from Brighton 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

Reading Museum

Reading's main museum, famed for the Bayeux Tapestry replica, local history, Huntley & Palmers displays, and Abbey galleries.

  • 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.

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.

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 Brighton to Reading offers a pleasant view of the English countryside, with glimpses of rolling hills and charming towns, but it is not considered one of the most scenic routes in the UK.
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 Brighton to Reading

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Brighton 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.

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Brighton to Reading.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Brighton to Reading

Most Brighton to Reading trains use the Brighton to Reading station pair. Use this guide to compare Brighton and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Brighton
Arrival train stations in Reading

Which Brighton station do trains to Reading leave from?

Trains from Brighton to Reading leave from Brighton. The station is from Brighton city centre at Brighton Station, Queens Rd, Brighton BN1 3XP, United Kingdom.
BrightonBrighton Station, Queens Rd, Brighton BN1 3XP, United Kingdom+44 345 127 2920WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Brighton from Brighton city centre

Bus37, 52 · 4m · $2 · every ~6 min

Brighton train station facilities and services

Brighton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: The Grand Central, The Cyclist

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Brighton. Information desks are located in the main concourse.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Brighton. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Brighton: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Brighton: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Brighton: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Jurys Inn Brighton, Ibis Brighton City Centre, My Brighton Hotel.

Preston ParkPreston Park station, Clermont Road, Preston Park, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 6SGParkingDiningAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Preston Park from Brighton city centre

Preston Park is 2 km from Brighton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainBrighton - Bedford, Brighton - London Bridge, Brighton - West Hampstead Thameslink, Brighton - Cambridge, Brighton - Luton, Brighton - Mill Hill Broadway · 3m · $2 · every ~6 min
BusUk998, Uk066 · 11m · $2 · every ~1 min
025 · 16m · $2 · every ~4 min

Preston Park train station facilities and services

Preston Park has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Preston Park.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Preston Park.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Preston Park: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Preston Park: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Preston Park: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: This is a Category C station: This station does not have step-free access. Assistance Meeting Point is outside the ticket office on platforms 1 and 2, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Southern ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: No, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Train stations for Brighton to Reading

Check train stations information for Brighton and Reading, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Brighton that goes to Reading is Brighton, which connects to Reading.

More options for your journey from Brighton to Reading

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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