- 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 Cambridge to Reading
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 13
Cheapest price on Oct 13
€74
Average ticket price on Oct 13
€74
Fastest journey on Oct 13
2 h 2 m
Average journey duration on Oct 13
2 h 11 m
Trains on Oct 13
6
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 €74 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €74.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cambridge to Reading without transferring at least 2 times.
W45408+
W35111+
C382928:25 AM2h13Cambridge South10:38 AMReading station (RDG)€741One-way2 transfers
C93336+W34680+
Tube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington8:16 AM2h07Cambridge South10:23 AMReading station (RDG)€741One-way2 transfers- W45408+C371998:25 AM2h47Cambridge South11:12 AMReading station (RDG)€741One-way1 transfer
- C82681+G14938+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington7:59 AM2h12Cambridge South10:11 AMReading station (RDG)€741One-way2 transfers
- W45489+W34618+Tube from London St Pancras International to London Paddington8:51 AM2h20Cambridge station (CBG)11:11 AMReading station (RDG)€741One-way2 transfers
- G27004+W34874+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington8:45 AM2h02Cambridge South10:47 AMReading station (RDG)€741One-way2 transfers
- C93336+W34680+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington8:16 AM2h07Cambridge South10:23 AMReading station (RDG)€741One-way2 transfers
- C82681+G14938+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington7:59 AM2h12Cambridge South10:11 AMReading station (RDG)€741One-way2 transfers
- W45408+W35111+C382928:25 AM2h13Cambridge South10:38 AMReading station (RDG)€741One-way2 transfers
- W45489+W34618+Tube from London St Pancras International to London Paddington8:51 AM2h20Cambridge station (CBG)11:11 AMReading station (RDG)€741One-way2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cambridge to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cambridge to Reading run on average 13 times per day, taking around 1h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €72 but you can travel from only €47 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 €47
Distance 68 miles (111 km) |
Average train duration 1h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price €72 |
Trains per day 13 |
Fastest train 1h 24m |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €47
Live departures
Cambridge to Reading train times
The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Reading trains for today, Monday, October 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:12 PM Cambridge | 1h59 | 3:11 PM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, October 13 | |||||
| C82681+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington+G14938 | 7:59 AM Cambridge South | 2h12 | 10:11 AM Reading station (RDG) | 2 transfers | |
| C93336+W34680+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington | 8:16 AM Cambridge South | 2h07 | 10:23 AM Reading station (RDG) | 2 transfers | |
| W45408+C37199 | 8:25 AM Cambridge South | 2h47 | 11:12 AM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| W45408+C38292+W35111 | 8:25 AM Cambridge South | 2h13 | 10:38 AM Reading station (RDG) | 2 transfers | |
| G27004+W34874+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington | 8:45 AM Cambridge South | 2h02 | 10:47 AM Reading station (RDG) | 2 transfers | |
| W45489+Tube from London St Pancras International to London Paddington+W34618 | 8:51 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 2h20 | 11:11 AM 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 Cambridge to Reading trains with Omio?
Great Northern as well as Greater Anglia, Thameslink, Elizabeth line 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 or Elizabeth line 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 or Elizabeth line 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.
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 €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 Greater Anglia Duration
2h 15m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
€72
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 Great Northern Duration
1h 24m
Cheapest Great Northern Price
€72
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 Thameslink Duration
1h 41m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
€72
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 Elizabeth line Duration
2h 18m
Cheapest Elizabeth line Price
€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
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.
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.
Train ticket prices from Cambridge to Reading can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €72, while the average price is around €73.
The train from Cambridge to Reading takes 1h 24m and runs 13 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 South, which connects to Reading station (RDG).
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, you can take the train from Cambridge to Reading.
Popular day trips by train from Reading include London, Oxford, Bracknell, Slough, Maidenhead.
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 South to Reading station pair. 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
Cambridge SouthTrumpington, Cambridge CB2 9FQ, UK
CambridgeCambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW+44 8450507080
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.
Which Reading station do trains from Cambridge arrive at?
Trains from Cambridge to Reading arrive at Reading. Reading is from Reading city centre.
ReadingReading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading from Reading city centre
Bus26, 90, 87 · 2m · €2 · 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.
Most popular train connections from Cambridge
More options for your journey from Cambridge to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Cambridge
Most popular train connections to Reading
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