Cambridge to Reading train with Great Northern

Fri, May 29
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Great Northern
Greater Anglia
Thameslink
Elizabeth line
CrossCountry
2,000+ travel companies
Great Northern
Greater Anglia
Thameslink
Elizabeth line
CrossCountry
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cambridge to Reading

Showing times and prices for May 29

Cheapest price

$90

Average price

$90

Fastest journey

2 h 4 m

Average duration

2 h 7 m

Trains per day

18

Distance

111 km

Cheap tickets

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

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

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cambridge to Reading without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Great NorthernC93311+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington+Great Western RailwayG14952
    5:42 AM2h10
    Cambridge station (CBG)
    7:52 AMReading station (RDG)
    $901One-way
    2 transfers
  • ThameslinkW45412+Great Western RailwayG15037+Elizabeth lineC38344
    5:21 AM2h15
    Cambridge station (CBG)
    7:36 AMReading station (RDG)
    $901One-way
    2 transfers
  • ThameslinkW45471+Great Western RailwayV80876+Elizabeth lineC36932
    4:51 AM2h22
    Cambridge station (CBG)
    7:13 AMReading station (RDG)
    $901One-way
    2 transfers
  • ThameslinkW45412+Elizabeth lineC37205
    5:21 AM2h34
    Cambridge station (CBG)
    7:55 AMReading station (RDG)
    $901One-way
    1 transfer
  • ThameslinkW45468+Elizabeth lineC37221
    5:51 AM2h35
    Cambridge station (CBG)
    8:26 AMReading station (RDG)
    $901One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Cambridge to Reading

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cambridge to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $60. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 2m. 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 bus costs an average of $60, and a train costs an average of $58.

Distance: 68 miles (111 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$84

Average price

$81

Average price

Cheapest

$31

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 2m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 2m

Average total duration

3h 32m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 2m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Great Northern

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus 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 Cambridge to Reading is a bus with an average price of $81 (€65).

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

A bus is $3 (€3) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cambridge to Reading costing on average $84 (€68).

The fastest way to travel from Cambridge to Reading is by train with an average journey time of 2h 2m.

Other travel options to Reading take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 32m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cambridge and Reading including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cambridge to Reading among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $84 (€68) compared to roughly $31 (€25) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-52.83 (€-42.57). The journey takes 2h 2m versus 2h 2m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Cambridge to Reading train times

The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Reading trains for tomorrow, Friday, May 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
ThameslinkW45471+Elizabeth lineC36932+Great Western RailwayV808764:51 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h22
7:13 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45471+Elizabeth lineC371934:51 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h36
7:27 AM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
ThameslinkW45412+Elizabeth lineC38344+Great Western RailwayG150375:21 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h15
7:36 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45412+Elizabeth lineC372055:21 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h34
7:55 AM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
Great NorthernC93311+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington+Great Western RailwayG149525:42 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h10
7:52 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45468+Elizabeth lineC372215:51 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h35
8:26 AM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
Great NorthernC93336+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington+Great Western RailwayW346808:12 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h11
10:23 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
Greater AngliaP76264+Elizabeth lineC371998:18 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h54
11:12 AM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
ThameslinkW45408+Elizabeth lineC38292+Great Western RailwayW351118:21 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h17
10:38 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
Great NorthernG27004+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington+Great Western RailwayW348748:42 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h05
10:47 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
Greater AngliaP76270+Elizabeth lineC372138:48 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h53
11:41 AM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
ThameslinkW45489+Elizabeth lineC38347+Great Western RailwayG149798:51 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h08
10:59 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
Greater AngliaP76282+Elizabeth lineC372389:59 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h42
12:41 PM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
Great NorthernC93357+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington+Great Western RailwayY1540210:10 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h06
12:16 PM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
Greater AngliaP76288+Elizabeth lineC3724910:18 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h54
1:12 PM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
ThameslinkW45402+Elizabeth lineC38469+Great Western RailwayW3462410:21 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h15
12:36 PM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
Great NorthernC93362+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington+Great Western RailwayW3488410:42 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h04
12:46 PM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
Greater AngliaP76294+Elizabeth lineC3726010:59 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h44
1:43 PM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cambridge to Reading by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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
May 29
Sat
May 30
Sun
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Thu
Jun 04

Why should you book Cambridge to Reading trains with Omio?

Great Northern as well as Greater Anglia, Thameslink, Elizabeth line, CrossCountry and more offer trains services from Cambridge to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cambridge to Reading.

Why book with Omio vs Great Northern?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Northern, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia, Thameslink, Elizabeth line or CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge 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 Northern with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cambridge to Reading.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia, Thameslink, Elizabeth line or CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge to Reading.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cambridge to Reading.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cambridge to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cambridge to Reading run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $58 (€47) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:53, the last at 23:12. The fastest train covers the 68 miles (111 km) distance in 1h 59m.

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
68 miles (111 km)
Average train duration
2h 2m
Cheapest ticket price
$58 (€47)
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
1h 59m
First train
12:53 AM
Last train
11:12 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
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

Train companies: Great Northern, Greater Anglia, Thameslink, Elizabeth line, CrossCountry from Cambridge to Reading trainsGreat Northern, Greater Anglia, Thameslink, Elizabeth line, CrossCountry trains will get you between Cambridge and Reading from $58 (€47). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Greater Anglia

About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 41m
Cheapest Price
$60 (€48)
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone

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
CrossCountry frequency
2 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

Great Northern

About
Great Northern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It offers a wide range of services, including high-speed trains, regional trains, and sleeper services. The high-speed trains are called InterCity Express Trains and they offer a fast and comfortable journey between major cities. The regional trains are called Regional Express Trains and they provide a slower but more frequent service to smaller towns and villages. The sleeper services are called Caledonian Sleeper Trains and they offer overnight journeys with comfortable sleeping compartments. Great Northern offers a variety of ticket types, including single, return, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Great Northern are London to Cambridge, London to Peterborough, and London to Norwich. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 59m
Cheapest Price
$89 (€72)
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
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free, maximum two dogs per passenger, 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 Duration
2h 17m
Cheapest Price
$58 (€47)
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

Elizabeth line

About
Tfl Rail is a railway service operated by Transport for London in the United Kingdom. It operates on the Great Western Main Line and the Heathrow branch of the London Underground. The service runs from Paddington in London to Reading, Maidenhead, Slough, and Heathrow Airport. It also serves the towns of Taplow, Burnham, Twyford, and Hayes & Harlington. All trains are air-conditioned and feature onboard Wi-Fi, power sockets, and digital information screens. Tfl Rail offers a range of ticket types, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and Oyster cards. Oyster cards are the most popular ticket type, allowing passengers to pay for their journey with a single card. The most popular routes for Tfl Rail are Paddington to Reading, Paddington to Maidenhead, and Paddington to Heathrow Airport. These routes offer frequent services and provide passengers with a convenient way to travel between London and the surrounding areas.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 21m
Cheapest Price
$92 (€74)
Elizabeth line frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available through TfL website or customer service
Refund
Full refund available for service cancellations
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
No dedicated dining car. Passengers can bring their own food and drinks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Step-free access at most stations, wheelchair spaces on trains, priority seating
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be leashed. Guide dogs welcome
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Cambridge to Reading

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cambridge 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
Train ticket prices from Cambridge to Reading can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $58 (€47), while the average price is around $84 (€68).
The train from Cambridge to Reading takes 1h 59m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Cambridge to Reading leaves at 12:53 AM.
The distance by train from Cambridge to Reading is 68 miles (111 km).
The last train from Cambridge to Reading leaves at 11:12 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cambridge to Reading.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cambridge to Reading.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cambridge to Reading.
The train station in Cambridge that goes to Reading is Cambridge station (CBG), which connects to Reading station (RDG).
The cheapest way to get from Cambridge to Reading is by train, with a cost of around $58 (€47).
The train journey from Cambridge to Reading offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of charming countryside, historical towns, and occasional glimpses of rivers and fields, making parts of the trip quite scenic.
Yes, a day trip from Cambridge to Reading is feasible. The journey takes 1h 59m with a distance of 68 miles (111 km). Trains run 7 times per day.
Two to three days are typically sufficient to explore the main attractions and experience the cultural highlights of Reading.
Yes, you can take the train from Cambridge to Reading.
Since neither Cambridge 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.
Popular day trips by train from Reading include London, Oxford, Bracknell, Slough, Maidenhead.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cambridge to Reading among Omio's users.
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.
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 train stations

Popular train stations from Cambridge to Reading

Cambridge
Reading
The major train station for departures in Cambridge is Cambridge. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cambridge for your trip from Cambridge to Reading.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:10 - 23:00 Saturday 05:10 - 23:00 Sunday 07:00 - 22:55
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Premium Bay
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
  • Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible toilets: Yes
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: Yes
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The accessible toilets are on platform 4
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: Platforms 1, 4 and 7
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Cycle point is by the Car Park
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cambridge
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement buses depart from the front of the station
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Accessible taxis: Details of the nearest taxi will be supplied by station staff
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible toilets: Yes
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: Yes
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Station foyer
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: Waiting rooms are available on each platform
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Adjacent station building.
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from information point
  • Helpline Contact: 0800 028 2878
Public transit options for Cambridge North
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: From bus stop on station forecourt.

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