Manchester to Reading train with Avanti West Coast

Tue, Oct 13
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
London North Eastern Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
London North Eastern Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Reading

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 13

Cheapest price on Oct 13

$154

Average ticket price on Oct 13

$178

Fastest journey on Oct 13

3 h 15 m

Average journey duration on Oct 13

3 h 30 m

Trains on Oct 13

6

Distance

241 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Manchester to Reading will cost around $178 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $154.

Fast trains

On Tue, Oct 13, we found 6 trains from Manchester to Reading, including 2 direct services.

On Tue, Oct 13 the direct trains cover the 241 km distance in an average of 3 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 15 m .

On Tue, Oct 13 the slowest trains will take 3 h 40 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.

  • CrossCountryW29925+West Midlands TrainsC16918+Transport for WalesG38868
    7:30 AM3h35
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    11:05 AMReading station (RDG)
    $1541One-way
    2 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01005
    8:25 AM3h15
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    11:40 AMReading station (RDG)
    $1611One-way
    0 transfers
  • Avanti West CoastW34115+CrossCountryG01176
    6:23 AM3h44
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    10:07 AMReading station (RDG)
    $1881One-way
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryG01003
    7:25 AM3h20
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    10:45 AMReading station (RDG)
    $1881One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01000+Avanti West CoastW33950
    6:02 AM3h40
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    9:42 AMReading station (RDG)
    $1881One-way
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Manchester to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Manchester to Reading run on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 if you book in advance.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 22:15. The fastest train covers the 149 miles (241 km) distance in 2h 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
149 miles (241 km)
Average train duration
3h 0m
Cheapest ticket price
$29
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
2h 35m
First train
12:07 AM
Last train
10:15 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
1 day
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

Manchester to Reading train times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Reading trains for today, Monday, October 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Transport for WalesG38877+West Midlands TrainsC16936+CrossCountryG01184
Delayed
10:40 AM 11:30 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h36
3:06 PM Reading station (RDG)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG01022
On time
12:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h17
3:42 PM Reading station (RDG)
0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG01024
On time
1:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h15
4:40 PM Reading station (RDG)
0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG38880+West Midlands TrainsC16947+CrossCountryW29935
On time
1:30 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h45
5:15 PM Reading station (RDG)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG01027
On time
2:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h19
5:44 PM Reading station (RDG)
0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG38882+West Midlands TrainsC16951+CrossCountryG01186
On time
2:30 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h41
6:11 PM Reading station (RDG)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG01032
On time
3:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h16
6:41 PM Reading station (RDG)
0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, October 13
Avanti West CoastW33950+CrossCountryG010006:02 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h40
9:42 AM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
Avanti West CoastW34115+CrossCountryG011766:23 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h44
10:07 AM Reading station (RDG)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38866+West Midlands TrainsC16915+CrossCountryG011766:27 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h40
10:07 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
CrossCountryG010037:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h20
10:45 AM Reading station (RDG)0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG38868+West Midlands TrainsC16918+CrossCountryW299257:30 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h35
11:05 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
CrossCountryG010058:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h15
11:40 AM Reading station (RDG)0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Manchester to Reading trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast or London North Eastern Railway offer trains services from Manchester to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester 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 Avanti West Coast or London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from Manchester 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester 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 Avanti West Coast or London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Reading.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Reading.

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway from Manchester to Reading trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway trains will get you between Manchester and Reading from $29. 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 35m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$77
Avanti West Coast frequency
4 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

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 10m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$29
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

London North Eastern Railway

About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
3h 49m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
$132
London North Eastern Railway frequency
1 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
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
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 Manchester to Reading

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester 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 Manchester to Reading can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29, while the average price is around $143.
The train from Manchester to Reading takes 2h 35m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Manchester to Reading is 149 miles (241 km).
The first train from Manchester to Reading leaves at 12:07 AM.
The last train from Manchester to Reading leaves at 10:15 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Manchester to Reading.
Yes, there is a direct train from Manchester to Reading. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Reading.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Reading is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), which connects to Reading station (RDG).
The train journey from Manchester to Reading offers a mix of urban and countryside views, with scenic highlights including the rolling hills of the Peak District and the picturesque landscapes near the Midlands, providing a pleasant visual experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester 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 Manchester to Reading

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

Departure train stations in Manchester
Arrival train stations in Reading

Which Manchester station do trains to Reading leave from?

Trains from Manchester to Reading leave from Manchester Piccadilly. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Manchester city centre at Piccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M60 7RA, United Kingdom.
Manchester PiccadillyPiccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M60 7RA, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Manchester Piccadilly from Manchester city centre

Bus201, 203, 202, 205 · 1m · $2 · every ~56 min
TramBlue Line, Red Line, Pink Line, Purple Line, Yellow Line · 3m · $2 · every ~47 min

Manchester Piccadilly train station facilities and services

Manchester Piccadilly has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Burger King, Caffè Nero, Carluccio’s, Hotel Chocolat, Starbucks, The Pasty Shop, Costa Coffee, Pret a Manger, Upper Crust, McDonald's, & more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi. ATMs are there are ATM machines on the main concourse, Platform 10 and on the mezzanine level.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30, Sun: 07:00 - 22:30. Information desks are located near the Fairfield Street entrance on the mezzanine level.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Piccadilly: There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly, Premier Inn Manchester City, Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly.

Manchester AirportManchester Airport station, Malaga Avenue, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M90 3RRWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Manchester Airport from Manchester city centre

Manchester Airport is 13 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainLiverpool Lime Street - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Crewe, Blackpool North - Manchester Airport, Barrow-in-Furness - Manchester Airport, Windermere - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Wilmslow, Manchester Piccadilly - Manchester Airport, Millom - Manchester Airport, Lancaster - Manchester Airport, Manchester Oxford Road - Manchester Airport, Corkickle - Manchester Airport, Preston - Manchester Airport · 17m · $6 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · $1 · every ~2 min
43, 103 · 1h 2m · $2 · every ~29 min
43, 103 · 1h 6m · $2 · every ~29 min
TramNavy Line · 51m · $5 · every ~16 min
Navy Line · 54m · $5 · every ~8 min

Manchester Airport train station facilities and services

Manchester Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Manchester Airport.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Manchester Airport. ATMs are available at Manchester Airport.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Manchester Airport. Information desks are information available from staff: ,Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 107 2149, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Manchester Airport: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Manchester Airport: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Airport: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: re Step free access is provided from the Ground Transport Interchange to all platforms via lifts or ramps. This station is staffed for all services. This station is Category A. Station staff can provide assistance from Meeting Point 1 (adjacent to the Station Booking Office) and throughout the railway station, and with boarding and alighting the train. Customers requiring assistance should make themselves known to station staff no less than 20 minutes prior to the departure time of their train. Customers requiring assistance to access other services or to connect with terminals should request this from their airline or Manchester Airport Group. Assistance can be requested in advance by contacting the TransPennine Express Assisted Travel Team on 0800 107 2149 (18001 prefix for TextRelay). Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible public telephones: In the station cafe on platforms 2 and 3, 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: Yes.

Manchester Oxford RoadManchester Oxford Road station, Station Approach, Oxford Road, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M1 6FUParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Manchester Oxford Road from Manchester city centre

Bus42A, 43, 42, 101, 85, 85A, 111, 263, 142, 143, 87, 41, 18, 86, 15, 250, 42B, 42C, 103, 102 · 5m · $2 · every ~224 min
T1 · 1h 7m

Manchester Oxford Road train station facilities and services

Manchester Oxford Road has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Manchester Oxford Road.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Manchester Oxford Road.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Oxford Road: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B Station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station - There are two lifts at the Piccadilly end of platform 4 and 2/3 which connect the concourse area platform 4 and 5 with 2/3. Note: there is no lift access to platform 1 at all, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

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