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The cheapest and fastest trains from London Gatwick Airport to Reading
Showing times and prices for May 24
Cheapest price
$25
Average price
$36
Fastest journey
1 h 27 m
Average duration
1 h 27 m
Trains per day
19
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 $36 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $25.
Fast trains
Of the 19 trains that leave London Gatwick Airport for Reading on Sun, May 24, 14 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 24 the direct trains cover the 64 km distance in an average of 1 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 27 m .
On Sun, May 24 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.
C331827:26 PM1h28Gatwick Airport (GTW)8:54 PMReading station (RDG)$251One-way0 transfers- C331858:55 PM1h29Gatwick Airport (GTW)10:24 PMReading station (RDG)$251One-way0 transfers
- C331837:55 PM1h31Gatwick Airport (GTW)9:26 PMReading station (RDG)$251One-way0 transfers
- C331848:25 PM1h28Gatwick Airport (GTW)9:53 PMReading station (RDG)$251One-way0 transfers
- C331785:26 PM1h27Gatwick Airport (GTW)6:53 PMReading station (RDG)$251One-way0 transfers
- C331785:26 PM1h27Gatwick Airport (GTW)6:53 PMReading station (RDG)$251One-way0 transfers
- C331764:26 PM1h27Gatwick Airport (GTW)5:53 PMReading station (RDG)$251One-way0 transfers
- C331629:26 AM1h27Gatwick Airport (GTW)10:53 AMReading station (RDG)$371One-way0 transfers
- C3316410:26 AM1h27Gatwick Airport (GTW)11:53 AMReading station (RDG)$371One-way0 transfers
- C331827:26 PM1h28Gatwick Airport (GTW)8:54 PMReading station (RDG)$251One-way0 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 |
|---|---|---|
$46 Average price Cheapest | $59 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) |
Most popular train company |  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 $46 (€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 $59 (€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 $46 (€37) compared to roughly $20 (€16) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-26.00 (€-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 tomorrow, Sunday, May 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C33160 | 7:59 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 1h40 | 9:39 AM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
 C82971+ Tube from London Victoria to London Paddington+C00167 | 8:20 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 2h01 | 10:21 AM Reading station (RDG) | 2 transfers | |
| C33161 | 8:55 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 1h28 | 10:23 AM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C33162 | 9:26 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 1h27 | 10:53 AM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C33163 | 9:55 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 1h28 | 11:23 AM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
 G26294+Tube from London Victoria to London Paddington+W34690 | 9:56 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 1h55 | 11:51 AM Reading station (RDG) | 2 transfers | |
| C33164 | 10:26 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 1h27 | 11:53 AM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C33176 | 4:26 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 1h27 | 5:53 PM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C33177 | 4:55 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 1h29 | 6:24 PM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C33178 | 5:26 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 1h27 | 6:53 PM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C33179 | 5:55 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 1h28 | 7:23 PM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G26340+Tube from London Victoria to London Paddington+C33038 | 5:56 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 1h57 | 7:53 PM Reading station (RDG) | 2 transfers | |
| C33180 | 6:26 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 1h28 | 7:54 PM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C33182 | 7:26 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 1h28 | 8:54 PM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C33183 | 7:55 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 1h31 | 9:26 PM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C33184 | 8:25 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 1h28 | 9:53 PM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C33185 | 8:55 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 1h29 | 10:24 PM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
C82301+ L80859 | 9:15 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 1h47 | 11:02 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| G26476+L80868 | 9:40 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 1h52 | 11:32 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
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.
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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
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
$66 (€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
$59 (€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
$67 (€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
$62 (€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.
Train ticket prices from London Gatwick Airport to Reading can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25 (€20), while the average price is around $46 (€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
London
Reading
Amenities at train station
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Ticket Office
Bike 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
AccessibilityAmenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotel
Lost 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 London Gatwick Airport
More options for your journey from London Gatwick Airport to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and London Gatwick Airport
Most popular train connections to Reading
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