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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chelmsford to Reading
Showing times and prices for May 07
Cheapest price
$71
Average price
$71
Fastest journey
2 h 6 m
Average duration
2 h 6 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
104 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chelmsford to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chelmsford to Reading will cost around $71 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $71.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Chelmsford for Reading on Thu, May 07, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, May 07 the direct trains cover the 104 km distance in an average of 2 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 6 m .
On Thu, May 07 the slowest trains will take 2 h 6 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.
8:34 AM2h06Chelmsford10:40 AMReading$711One-way0 transfers
- 8:34 AM2h06Chelmsford10:40 AMReading$711One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train for Chelmsford to Reading
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chelmsford to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $55. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 20m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $55, and a train costs an average of $55.
Distance: 64 miles (104 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$63 Average price Cheapest | $30 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 50m Average total duration Fastest 1h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chelmsford to Reading is a train with an average price of $63 (€50).
The fastest way to travel from Chelmsford to Reading is by train with an average journey time of 1h 20m.
Yes, you can take a train between Chelmsford and Reading.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chelmsford 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 24m sooner (1h 20m by train vs 1h 44m by car). Tickets start at around $63 (€50) compared to roughly $30 (€24) 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
Chelmsford to Reading train times
The table below shows live departures for Chelmsford to Reading trains for tomorrow, Thursday, May 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:34 AM Chelmsford | 2h06 | 10:40 AM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chelmsford to Reading by train
Compare 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.
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May 07
May 07
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Why should you book Chelmsford to Reading trains with Omio?
Greater Anglia as well as Elizabeth line or Great Western Railway offer trains services from Chelmsford to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chelmsford to Reading.
Why book with Omio vs Greater Anglia?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greater Anglia, but also compare tickets for the likes of Elizabeth line or Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Chelmsford 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Elizabeth line or Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Chelmsford to Reading.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chelmsford to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chelmsford to Reading run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $55 (€43) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 03:08, the last at 23:12. The fastest train covers the 64 miles (104 km) distance in 1h 35m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 64 miles (104 km) |
Average train duration 1h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $55 (€43) |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 1h 35m |
First train 3:08 AM |
Last train 11:12 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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: Greater Anglia, Elizabeth line, Great Western Railway from Chelmsford to Reading trainsGreater Anglia, Elizabeth line, Great Western Railway trains will get you between Chelmsford and Reading from $55 (€43). 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
1h 35m
Cheapest Price
$55 (€43)
Greater Anglia frequency
50 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 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
Great Western Railway frequency
2 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
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 6m
Cheapest Price
$71 (€57)
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 Chelmsford to Reading
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford to Reading can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $55 (€43), while the average price is around $63 (€50).
The train from Chelmsford to Reading takes 1h 35m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Chelmsford to Reading leaves at 3:08 AM.
The distance by train from Chelmsford to Reading is 64 miles (104 km).
The last train from Chelmsford to Reading leaves at 11:12 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chelmsford to Reading.
There is no direct train service currently available from Chelmsford to Reading.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chelmsford to Reading.
The train station in Chelmsford that goes to Reading is Chelmsford station (CHM), which connects to Reading station (RDG).
The cheapest way to get from Chelmsford to Reading is by train, with a cost of around $55 (€43).
The train journey from Chelmsford to Reading offers views of the English countryside, passing through towns and rural landscapes, but it is not commonly noted for being particularly scenic.
Yes, a day trip from Chelmsford to Reading is feasible. The journey takes 1h 35m, covers 64 miles (104 km), and there are 9 trains 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 Chelmsford to Reading.
Since neither Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford to Reading
Chelmsford
Reading
The major train station for departures in Chelmsford is Chelmsford. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chelmsford for your trip from Chelmsford to Reading.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:50 - 22:00 Saturday 05:50 - 22:00 Sunday 07:00 - 23:00
Shopping
- Type of shops available: Newsagent Flower stall Hairdresser Dry cleaner
Parking
- Car Park: Premium Bay
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
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on each platform. The accessible (radar key) toilets are located on the Ground Floor, near the lifts.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: There is a dedicated Cycle Point, with free cycle parking, plus secure cycle parking and premium cycle parking. This is in Park Road, opposite the station.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Chelmsford
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement transport stop at the bus stop on Victoria Road by station entrance
The major train station for arrivals in Reading is Reading. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Reading for your journey to Reading from Chelmsford.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWC
Hotel
LoungeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:15 - 22:45 Saturday 05:30 - 22:45 Sunday 07:15 - 22:45 Please note: Reservations and tickets requiring reservations are sold at the following times only: Mon - Sat 08:00 - 20:00 and Sun 09:00 - 20:00
Parking
- Car Park: Multi Storey Car Park
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: Toilets are located on Station Platforms and in The Brunel Arcade building
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Front of station, underground short stay car park and long stay car park.
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Reading
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the North side of the station
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 10:45 Saturday - Sunday Closed
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access note: Step Free Category B3 - This station has a degree of step free access but only to Platform 1 and only if accessed via Tilehurst Road. Otherwise this station can be classified as Category C. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station.
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Reading West
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Towards Reading: Bus Stop on Oxford Road under Railway Bridge. Heading away from Reading Bus Stop on Oxford Road, outside McDonalds.
Most popular train connections from Chelmsford
More options for your journey from Chelmsford to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Chelmsford
Most popular train connections to Reading
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