London Gatwick Airport to Reading train with Great Western Railway

Thu, Jul 09
+ Add return
Great Western Railway
Thameslink
South Western Railway
Southern
Gatwick Express
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
Thameslink
South Western Railway
Southern
Gatwick Express
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from London Gatwick Airport to Reading

Showing times and prices for Jul 09

Cheapest price

$25

Average price

$48

Fastest journey

1 h 28 m

Average duration

1 h 28 m

Trains per day

10

Distance

64 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from London Gatwick Airport to Reading will cost around $48 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $25.

Fast trains

Of the 10 trains that leave London Gatwick Airport for Reading on Thu, Jul 09, 10 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Jul 09 the direct trains cover the 64 km distance in an average of 1 h 28 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 28 m .

On Thu, Jul 09 the slowest trains will take 1 h 28 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.

  • Great Western Railway
    1:59 PM1h31
    London Gatwick Airport
    3:30 PMReading
    $251One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western Railway
    11:59 AM1h28
    London Gatwick Airport
    1:27 PMReading
    $361One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western Railway
    10:59 AM1h28
    London Gatwick Airport
    12:27 PMReading
    $371One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western Railway
    2:29 PM1h28
    London Gatwick Airport
    3:57 PMReading
    $371One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western Railway
    12:59 PM1h28
    London Gatwick Airport
    2:27 PMReading
    $381One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for London Gatwick Airport to Reading

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from London Gatwick Airport to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 29m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $25, and a bus costs an average of $13.

Distance: 39 miles (64 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$45

Average price

Cheapest

$58

Average price

$20

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 59m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 29m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 24m

Average total duration

1h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 21m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Great Western Railway

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from London Gatwick Airport to Reading is a train with an average price of $45 (€37).

This is compared to other travel options from London Gatwick Airport to Reading:

A train is $13 (€10) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from London Gatwick Airport to Reading costing on average $58 (€48).

The fastest way to travel from London Gatwick Airport to Reading is by train with an average journey time of 1h 29m.

Other travel options to Reading take longer:

Bus takes on average 1h 54m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between London Gatwick Airport and Reading including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from London Gatwick Airport to Reading among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $45 (€37) compared to roughly $20 (€16) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-25.58 (€-21.04). The journey takes 1h 29m versus 1h 21m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

London Gatwick Airport to Reading train times

The table below shows live departures for London Gatwick Airport to Reading trains for today, Wednesday, July 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western RailwayG1513512:59 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
1h28
2:27 PM Reading station (RDG)0 transfersDirect
ThameslinkW45372+Elizabeth lineC37296+Great Western RailwayW34894
On time
1:06 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
1h40
2:46 PM Reading station (RDG)
2 transfers
ThameslinkW45432+Elizabeth lineC38264+Great Western RailwayG149641:16 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
1h37
2:53 PM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayG151361:29 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
1h28
2:57 PM Reading station (RDG)0 transfersDirect
ThameslinkW45536+Elizabeth lineC37309+Great Western RailwayY154251:36 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
1h41
3:17 PM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45476+Elizabeth lineC38307+Great Western RailwayW347061:46 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
1h37
3:23 PM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayG151371:59 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
1h28
3:27 PM Reading station (RDG)0 transfersDirect
ThameslinkW45573+Elizabeth lineC37322+Great Western RailwayY154272:06 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
1h40
3:46 PM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45423+Elizabeth lineC38349+Great Western RailwayG149652:16 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
1h37
3:53 PM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayG151382:29 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW)
1h28
3:57 PM Reading station (RDG)0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets London Gatwick Airport to Reading by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Thu
Jul 09
Fri
Jul 10
Sat
Jul 11
Sun
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14
Wed
Jul 15

Why should you book London Gatwick Airport to Reading trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as Thameslink, South Western Railway, Southern, Gatwick Express and more offer trains services from London Gatwick Airport to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London Gatwick Airport to Reading.

Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink, South Western Railway, Southern or Gatwick Express to find the best option for your trip from London Gatwick Airport 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 Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from London Gatwick Airport to Reading.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink, South Western Railway, Southern or Gatwick Express to find the best option for your trip from London Gatwick Airport to Reading.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from London Gatwick Airport to Reading.

Journey information

Overview: Train from London Gatwick Airport to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from London Gatwick Airport to Reading run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 (€20) but you can travel from only $13 (€11) by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:19, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 39 miles (64 km) distance in 1h 23m.

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 $13 (€11)
Distance
39 miles (64 km)
Average train duration
1h 29m
Cheapest ticket price
$25 (€20)
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
1h 23m
First train
6:19 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sat
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 $13 (€11)

Train companies: Great Western Railway, Thameslink, South Western Railway, Southern, Gatwick Express, Great Western Railway (GWR) from London Gatwick Airport to Reading trainsGreat Western Railway, Thameslink, South Western Railway, Southern, Gatwick Express, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between London Gatwick Airport and Reading from $13 (€11). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
Average Duration
1h 23m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€20)
Great Western Railway frequency
4 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

South Western Railway

About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 58m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€38)
South Western Railway frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone

Southern

About
Southern Rail is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local commuter services. Its trains include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, and Class 444 and 450. It also offers a variety of ticket types, such as Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southern Rail are London to Brighton, London to Southampton, and London to Portsmouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 0m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€54)
Southern frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require a ticket
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 37m
Cheapest Price
$58 (€47)
Thameslink 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
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

Gatwick Express

About
Gatwick Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport, with trains running every 15 minutes throughout the day. The trains are modern and comfortable, with air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi. There are two types of trains: the Gatwick Express and the Southern service. The Gatwick Express is the fastest service, taking just 30 minutes to reach the airport. The Southern service takes a few minutes longer but offers more stops along the way.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 42m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€54)
Gatwick Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack trolley service available on some services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, staff assistance for boarding and alighting
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead.

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 20m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€50)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
22 a day

FAQs: Trains from London Gatwick Airport to Reading

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London Gatwick Airport 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 London Gatwick Airport to Reading can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25 (€20), while the average price is around $45 (€37).
The train from London Gatwick Airport to Reading takes 1h 23m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from London Gatwick Airport to Reading leaves at 6:19 AM.
The distance by train from London Gatwick Airport to Reading is 39 miles (64 km).
The last train from London Gatwick Airport to Reading leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from London Gatwick Airport to Reading.
Yes, there is a direct train from London Gatwick Airport to Reading. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from London Gatwick Airport to Reading.
The cheapest way to get from London Gatwick Airport to Reading is by bus, with a cost of around $13 (€11).
The train journey from London Gatwick Airport to Reading is moderately scenic, offering views of the English countryside, charming towns, and green landscapes as it passes through Surrey and Berkshire.
Yes, a day trip from London Gatwick Airport to Reading is feasible. The journey takes 1h 23m, covering a distance of 39 miles (64 km), with a frequency of 11 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 London Gatwick Airport to Reading.
Since neither London Gatwick Airport 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 London Gatwick Airport 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 London Gatwick Airport to Reading

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

Departure train stations in London
Arrival train stations in Reading
ReadingReading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ+44 3451652030ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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.

Reading Green ParkReading RG2 6AU, UKAccessibility
City-centre transport

Getting to Reading Green Park from Reading city centre

Reading Green Park is 3 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainReading - Basingstoke · 6m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus9 · 39m · $2 · every ~3 min

Reading Green Park train station facilities and services

Reading Green Park has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Reading Green Park.

Reading WestReading West station, Oxford Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 7PYParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Reading West from Reading city centre

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

TrainReading - Basingstoke, Reading - Newbury, Reading - Bedwyn, London Paddington - Bedwyn · 2m · $1 · every ~6 min
Bus15, 15a, 16, 17, 91, 85, 88, 93, 43 · 4m · $2 · every ~49 min

Reading West train station facilities and services

Reading West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Reading West.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Reading West.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Reading West: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Reading West: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Reading West: 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.

Most popular trains to and from Reading and London Gatwick Airport

HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomTrain Times to ReadingLondon Gatwick Airport to Reading train

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