Colchester to Reading train with Greater Anglia

Sun, Jun 21
+ Add return
Greater Anglia
Elizabeth line
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Greater Anglia
Elizabeth line
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Colchester to Reading

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$51

Average price

$51

Fastest journey

2 h 6 m

Average duration

2 h 6 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

138 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Colchester to Reading will cost around $51 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $51.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Colchester for Reading on Sun, Jun 21, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 138 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 Sun, Jun 21 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.

  • Greater Anglia
    8:06 AM2h06
    Colchester
    10:12 AMReading
    $511One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train for Colchester to Reading

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Colchester to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $51. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 45m. 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 train costs an average of $51, and a train costs an average of $51.

Distance: 85 miles (138 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Driving

$86

Average price

Cheapest

$38

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 15m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 45m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 9m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

Greater Anglia

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Colchester to Reading is a train with an average price of $86 (€70).
The fastest way to travel from Colchester to Reading is by train with an average journey time of 1h 45m.

Other travel options to Reading take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 40m.

Yes, you can take a train between Colchester and Reading.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Colchester 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 45m by train vs 2h 9m by car). Tickets start at around $86 (€70) compared to roughly $38 (€31) 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

Colchester to Reading train times

The table below shows live departures for Colchester to Reading trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greater Anglia8:06 AM Colchester
2h06
10:12 AM Reading0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Colchester 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.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Colchester to Reading trains with Omio?

Greater Anglia as well as Elizabeth line offer trains services from Colchester to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Colchester 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 to find the best option for your trip from Colchester 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Colchester to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Colchester to Reading run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $51 (€41) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 03:54, the last at 23:12. The fastest train covers the 85 miles (138 km) distance in 1h 52m.

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
85 miles (138 km)
Average train duration
1h 45m
Cheapest ticket price
$51 (€41)
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
1h 52m
First train
3:54 AM
Last train
11:12 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
28 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: Greater Anglia, Elizabeth line from Colchester to Reading trainsGreater Anglia, Elizabeth line trains will get you between Colchester and Reading from $51 (€41). 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 52m
Cheapest Price
$51 (€41)
Greater Anglia frequency
5 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

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 11m
Cheapest Price
$90 (€74)
Elizabeth line frequency
2 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 Colchester to Reading

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Colchester 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 Colchester to Reading can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $51 (€41), while the average price is around $86 (€70).
The train from Colchester to Reading takes 1h 52m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Colchester to Reading is 85 miles (138 km).
The first train from Colchester to Reading leaves at 3:54 AM.
The last train from Colchester to Reading leaves at 11:12 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Colchester to Reading.
There is no direct train service currently available from Colchester to Reading.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Colchester to Reading.
The train station in Colchester that goes to Reading is Colchester station (COL), which connects to Reading station (RDG).
The cheapest way to get from Colchester to Reading is by train, with a cost of around $51 (€41).
The train journey from Colchester to Reading offers a blend of urban and rural views, passing through the picturesque landscapes of Essex and Berkshire, with glimpses of countryside scenery and charming towns along the route.
A day trip from Colchester to Reading is feasible with a travel time of 1h 52m and a distance of 85 miles (138 km). The journey is serviced 9 times per day by trains.
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 Colchester to Reading.
Since neither Colchester 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 Colchester 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 Colchester to Reading

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

Departure train stations in Colchester
Arrival train stations in Reading

Which Colchester station do trains to Reading leave from?

Trains from Colchester to Reading leave from Colchester. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Colchester city centre at Colchester [North] station, Station Approach Road, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1XD.
ColchesterColchester [North] station, Station Approach Road, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1XD+44 8450507080WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Colchester from Colchester city centre

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

TrainClacton-on-Sea - London Liverpool Street, Clacton-on-Sea - Colchester, Colchester Town - London Liverpool Street, Colchester Town - Colchester, Walton-on-the-Naze - Colchester · 8m · $1 · every ~5 min
Bus2A, 68, 87, 53, 53A, 52, 51, X20 · 6m · $2 · every ~31 min

Colchester train station facilities and services

Colchester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Colchester.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Colchester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Colchester: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Colchester: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester: 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.

Hythe (Essex)Hythe station, Station Road, Hythe, Essex, CO2 8JRParkingAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Hythe (Essex) from Colchester city centre

Hythe (Essex) is 1 km from Colchester city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainColchester - Clacton-on-Sea, Colchester - Walton-on-the-Naze · 4m · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus54 · 7m · $1 · every ~11 min
54 · 11m · $4 · every ~11 min

Hythe (Essex) train station facilities and services

Hythe (Essex) has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Hythe (Essex): Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Hythe (Essex): Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Hythe (Essex): Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Colchester TownColchester Town station, St. Botolphs Circus, Colchester, Essex, CO2 7EFWifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Colchester Town from Colchester city centre

Bus43 · 1m · $1 · every ~1 min
68, 55, 68A · 1m · $4 · every ~4 min

Colchester Town train station facilities and services

Colchester Town has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Colchester Town.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Colchester Town.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Colchester Town. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Colchester Town: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Colchester Town: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester Town: 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, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

More options for your journey from Colchester to Reading

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