Cambridge to Reading train with Great Northern

Sat, Aug 29
+ Add return
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 Aug 29

Cheapest price

$58

Average price

$83

Fastest journey

2 h 3 m

Average duration

2 h 21 m

Trains per day

5

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 $83 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $58.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Cambridge for Reading on Sat, Aug 29, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Aug 29 the direct trains cover the 111 km distance in an average of 2 h 21 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 3 m .

On Sat, Aug 29 the slowest trains will take 2 h 41 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.

  • Thameslink
    8:51 AM2h17
    Cambridge
    11:08 AMReading
    $581One-way
    0 transfers
  • Thameslink
    5:21 AM2h24
    Cambridge
    7:45 AMReading
    $891One-way
    0 transfers
  • Thameslink
    7:21 AM2h19
    Cambridge
    9:40 AMReading
    $891One-way
    0 transfers
  • Greater Anglia
    7:59 AM2h41
    Cambridge
    10:40 AMReading
    $891One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Northern
    8:42 AM2h03
    Cambridge
    10:45 AMReading
    $911One-way
    0 transfers

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 1h 52m. 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 $90.

Distance: 68 miles (111 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$91

Average price

$76

Average price

Cheapest

$32

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 22m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 52m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 6m

Average total duration

3h 36m

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 $76.

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

A bus is $15 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cambridge to Reading costing on average $91.

The fastest way to travel from Cambridge to Reading is by train with an average journey time of 1h 52m.

Other travel options to Reading take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 36m.

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 meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 10m sooner (1h 52m by train vs 2h 2m by car). Tickets start at around $91 compared to roughly $32 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Cambridge to Reading train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Thameslink5:21 AM Cambridge
2h24
7:45 AM Reading0 transfersDirect
Thameslink7:21 AM Cambridge
2h19
9:40 AM Reading0 transfersDirect
Greater Anglia7:59 AM Cambridge
2h41
10:40 AM Reading0 transfersDirect

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.

Sat
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01
Wed
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 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 13 times per day, taking around 1h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $89 but you can travel from only $60 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:53, the last at 23:12. The fastest train covers the 68 miles (111 km) distance in 1h 24m.

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 $60
Distance
68 miles (111 km)
Average train duration
1h 52m
Cheapest ticket price
$89
Trains per day
13
Fastest train
1h 24m
First train
12:53 AM
Last train
11:12 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Thu
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $60

Train companies: Great Northern, Greater Anglia, Thameslink, Elizabeth line from Cambridge to Reading trainsGreat Northern, Greater Anglia, Thameslink, Elizabeth line trains will get you between Cambridge and Reading from $89. 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 15m
Cheapest Price
$89
Greater Anglia frequency
3 a day
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

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 24m
Cheapest Price
$89
Great Northern frequency
5 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
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
1h 41m
Cheapest Price
$89
Thameslink frequency
1 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

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
2h 18m
Cheapest Price
$91
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

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.

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 $90, while the average price is around $91.
The train from Cambridge to Reading takes 1h 24m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Cambridge to Reading is 68 miles (111 km).
The first train from Cambridge to Reading leaves at 12:53 AM.
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 $89.
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 24m 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

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

Departure train stations in Cambridge
Arrival train stations in Reading

Which Cambridge station do trains to Reading leave from?

Trains from Cambridge to Reading leave from Cambridge. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Cambridge city centre at Cambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW.
CambridgeCambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW+44 8450507080WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Cambridge from Cambridge city centre

Cambridge is 1 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:

BusU1, U2 · 11m · every ~11 min
Tour · 13m · $2
75 · 15m
A · 15m · $2 · every ~11 min

Cambridge train station facilities and services

Cambridge has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cambridge.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge. ATMs are available at Cambridge.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cambridge.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cambridge: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cambridge: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge: 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.

Cambridge SouthTrumpington, Cambridge CB2 9FQ, UK
Cambridge NorthCambridge North Station, Cowley Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0WZ+44 8450507080WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cambridge North from Cambridge city centre

Cambridge North is 3 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainLondon Liverpool Street - Cambridge North, Stansted Airport - Norwich, Cambridge - Norwich, London Liverpool Street - Ely, Stansted Airport - Lowestoft, Cambridge - Cambridge North, Bishops Stortford - Cambridge North, Audley End - Cambridge North, Audley End - Norwich · 3m · $2 · every ~6 min
BusB · 12m · $2 · every ~8 min
114 · 18m
2, B · 23m · $2 · every ~19 min

Cambridge North train station facilities and services

Cambridge North has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cambridge North.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge North.

Tickets and information

Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 2878.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cambridge North: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cambridge North: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge North: 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.

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