Liverpool to Reading train with Avanti West Coast

Wed, Oct 14
+ Add return
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Liverpool to Reading

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 14

Cheapest price on Oct 14

$60

Average ticket price on Oct 14

$138

Fastest journey on Oct 14

3 h 25 m

Average journey duration on Oct 14

3 h 29 m

Trains on Oct 14

9

Distance

256 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Liverpool to Reading will cost around $138 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $60.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Liverpool to Reading without transferring at least once.

  • West Midlands TrainsC16927+CrossCountryG01180
    9:33 AM3h33
    Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
    1:06 PMReading station (RDG)
    $601One-way
    1 transfer
  • West Midlands TrainsC16923+CrossCountryG01178
    8:33 AM3h32
    Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
    12:05 PMReading station (RDG)
    $601One-way
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryG01009+West Midlands TrainsC16925
    9:12 AM3h25
    Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
    12:37 PMReading station (RDG)
    $601One-way
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryG01005+West Midlands TrainsC16920
    8:10 AM3h30
    Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
    11:40 AMReading station (RDG)
    $601One-way
    1 transfer
  • West Midlands TrainsC16915+CrossCountryG01176+Mersey RailME078700
    5:50 AM4h17
    Moorfields (MRF)
    10:07 AMReading station (RDG)
    $601One-way
    2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Liverpool to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Liverpool to Reading run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $43 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 01:35, the last at 21:04. The fastest train covers the 159 miles (256 km) distance in 2h 49m.

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
159 miles (256 km)
Average train duration
3h 11m
Cheapest ticket price
$43
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
2h 49m
First train
1:35 AM
Last train
9:04 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
70 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

Live departures

Liverpool to Reading train times

The table below shows live departures for Liverpool to Reading trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, October 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Avanti West CoastW33943 · W33950+CrossCountryG010005:25 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
4h17
9:42 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
Avanti West CoastW33943+TubeTube from London Euston to London Paddington+Great Western RailwayG149365:25 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
3h46
9:11 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
West Midlands TrainsC16915+CrossCountryG01176+Mersey RailME0787005:50 AM Moorfields (MRF)
4h17
10:07 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
West Midlands TrainsC16920+CrossCountryG010058:10 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
3h30
11:40 AM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
West Midlands TrainsC16923+CrossCountryG011788:33 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
3h32
12:05 PM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
Avanti West CoastW34170+TubeTube from London Euston to London Paddington+Great Western RailwayW354178:43 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
3h28
12:11 PM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
West Midlands TrainsC16925+CrossCountryG010099:12 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
3h25
12:37 PM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
West Midlands TrainsC16927+CrossCountryG011809:33 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
3h33
1:06 PM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
Avanti West CoastW34119+TubeTube from London Euston to London Paddington+Great Western RailwayW346249:43 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
3h28
1:11 PM 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 Liverpool to Reading trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as West Midlands Trains or Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Liverpool to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Liverpool to Reading.

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Liverpool 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Liverpool to Reading.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Liverpool to Reading.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Liverpool to Reading.

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry from Liverpool to Reading trainsAvanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry trains will get you between Liverpool and Reading from $43. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
2h 49m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$116
Avanti West Coast frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average West Midlands Trains Duration
3h 10m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
$60
West Midlands Trains frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. 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
Average CrossCountry Duration
3h 8m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$43
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

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 Liverpool to Reading

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Liverpool 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 Liverpool to Reading can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $43, while the average price is around $155.
The train from Liverpool to Reading takes 2h 49m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Liverpool to Reading leaves at 1:35 AM.
The distance by train from Liverpool to Reading is 159 miles (256 km).
The last train from Liverpool to Reading leaves at 9:04 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Liverpool to Reading.
There is no direct train service currently available from Liverpool to Reading.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Liverpool to Reading.
The train station in Liverpool that goes to Reading is Liverpool Lime Street (LIV), which connects to Reading station (RDG).
The train journey from Liverpool to Reading offers varied scenery, featuring bustling urban landscapes, rolling countryside, and picturesque towns, providing a pleasant and moderately scenic experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Liverpool 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 Liverpool to Reading

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

Departure train stations in Liverpool
Arrival train stations in Reading
Liverpool Lime StreetLime St, Liverpool L1 1JD, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Liverpool Lime Street from Liverpool city centre

Suburban train linesWirral Line (green)
Bus lines9, 10, 61, 82, 79, 86C, 500
Train linesNorthern, West Midlands, TransPennine Express, East Midlands, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, London Northwestern
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesRail replacement services depart at the Bus stop on Skelhorne Street, near the Tesco Express. L3 5GA.

Liverpool Lime Street train station facilities and services

Liverpool Lime Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, Upper Crust, Starbucks, JD Wetherspoon

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are located near Platform 7.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:38, Sun: 07:15 - 23:05. Information desks are located in the main concourse.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is the Excess Baggage Co. lockers and staffed luggage storage counter are located in the main concourse near the escalators across from Platform 6. Open daily 08:00 to 21:00. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Liverpool Lime Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Liverpool Lime Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool Lime Street: Full wheelchair access throughout the station, with help points at the Skelhorne Street entrance and at customer information desk in the main concourse.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Pembroke Studios, Riley’s Rooms, Holiday Inn Liverpool City Center.

Liverpool CentralLiverpool Central station, Ranelagh Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 1JTWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Liverpool Central from Liverpool city centre

BusN1 · 21m · $5
City Explorer 101 · 32m · every ~3 min

Liverpool Central train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Liverpool Central.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Liverpool Central. ATMs are available at Liverpool Central.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Liverpool Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0151 555 1111, 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 Liverpool Central: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Liverpool Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A: “This station has step free access to all platforms / the platform” All platforms can be accessed via lift, Accessible ticket machines: There are no 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.

Liverpool James StreetLiverpool James Street station, James Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L2 7PQWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Liverpool James Street from Liverpool city centre

Liverpool James Street is 1 km from Liverpool city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainWest Kirby - West Kirby, Chester - Chester, Hooton - Chester, Ellesmere Port - Birkenhead Hamilton Square, Rock Ferry - West Kirby, Rock Ferry - Ellesmere Port, Ellesmere Port - Ellesmere Port, New Brighton - New Brighton, Moorfields - Chester, Ellesmere Port - Chester, Hooton - Ellesmere Port, Birkenhead Hamilton Square - West Kirby · 3m · $2 · every ~22 min
Bus10A · 8m · $5 · every ~25 min
838 · 13m

Liverpool James Street train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Liverpool James Street.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Liverpool James Street. ATMs are available at Liverpool James Street.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Liverpool James Street. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0151 555 1111, 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 Liverpool James Street: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Liverpool James Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool James Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A: “This station has step free access to all platforms / the platform”The Ticket Office is step free via James Street only and platforms can be accessed via lifts, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

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