Nottingham to Reading train with CrossCountry

Sat, Sep 12
+ Add return
CrossCountry
East Midlands Railway
London North Eastern Railway
Cross Country
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
East Midlands Railway
London North Eastern Railway
Cross Country
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Nottingham to Reading

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 12

Cheapest price on Sep 12

$25

Average ticket price on Sep 12

$50

Fastest journey on Sep 12

3 h 1 m

Average journey duration on Sep 12

3 h 16 m

Trains on Sep 12

4

Distance

167 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Nottingham to Reading will cost around $50 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $25.

Fast trains

On Sat, Sep 12, we found 4 trains from Nottingham to Reading, including 4 direct services.

On Sat, Sep 12 the direct trains cover the 167 km distance in an average of 3 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 1 m .

On Sat, Sep 12 the slowest trains will take 3 h 35 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.

  • CrossCountry
    11:07 AM3h01
    Nottingham
    2:08 PMReading
    $251One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    7:07 AM3h01
    Nottingham
    10:08 AMReading
    $371One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    8:07 AM3h35
    Nottingham
    11:42 AMReading
    $661One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    8:41 AM3h26
    Nottingham
    12:07 PMReading
    $741One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Nottingham to Reading

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Nottingham to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $84 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 7m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $84, while a train costs an average of $119.

Distance: 103 miles (167 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$119

Average price

$84

Average price

Cheapest

$48

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 7m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 47m

Average total duration

5h 17m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 45m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

The cheapest way to travel from Nottingham to Reading is a bus with an average price of $84 (€68).

This is compared to other travel options from Nottingham to Reading:

A bus is $35 (€28) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Nottingham to Reading costing on average $119 (€96).

The fastest way to travel from Nottingham to Reading is by train with an average journey time of 2h 37m.

Other travel options to Reading take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 17m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Nottingham and Reading including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Nottingham to Reading among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 8m sooner (2h 37m by train vs 2h 45m by car). Tickets start at around $119 (€96) compared to roughly $48 (€38) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Direct services run with Cross Country.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Nottingham to Reading train times

The table below shows live departures for Nottingham to Reading trains for today, Friday, September 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountry7:07 AM Nottingham
2h58
10:05 AM Reading0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry8:07 AM Nottingham
2h58
11:05 AM Reading0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry9:07 AM Nottingham
3h30
12:37 PM Reading0 transfersDirect
East Midlands Railway9:50 AM Nottingham
2h47
12:37 PM Reading0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry4:07 PM Nottingham
3h01
7:08 PM Reading0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Nottingham to Reading by bus or train

Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Sat
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14
Tue
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18

Why should you book Nottingham to Reading trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway, Cross Country and more offer trains services from Nottingham to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Nottingham 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 East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Nottingham 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Nottingham to Reading.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Nottingham to Reading.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Nottingham to Reading.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Nottingham to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Nottingham to Reading run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $30 (€24) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 02:24, the last at 22:20. The fastest train covers the 103 miles (167 km) distance in 2h 15m.

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
103 miles (167 km)
Average train duration
2h 37m
Cheapest ticket price
$30 (€24)
Trains per day
9
Fastest train
2h 15m
First train
2:24 AM
Last train
10:20 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
3 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information

Train companies: CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway, Chiltern Railways, Hull Trains from Nottingham to Reading trainsCrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway, Chiltern Railways, Hull Trains trains will get you between Nottingham and Reading from $53 (€43). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
2h 23m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$30 (€24)
CrossCountry frequency
5 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

East Midlands Railway

About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average East Midlands Railway Duration
2h 15m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
$48 (€39)
East Midlands Railway frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the 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
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day 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
2h 24m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
$87 (€71)
London North Eastern Railway frequency
2 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

Chiltern Railways

About
Chiltern Railways is a regional train company in the United Kingdom. Check the different ticket types for your next journey: Duo, Anytime, Season, Super Off Peak, Off Peak and Advance. It operates services from London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, Banbury, Aylesbury, High Wycombe, and Stratford-upon-Avon. It also runs services from Birmingham Moor Street to Stratford-upon-Avon. Chiltern Railways offers a range of train types, including InterCity 125, Class 165 and Class 168 trains. These trains are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, power sockets, and free Wi-Fi. The company offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include a café bar, a shop, and a quiet coach. The most popular routes for Chiltern Railways are London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, and High Wycombe.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Chiltern Railways Duration
2h 39m
Cheapest Chiltern Railways Price
$95 (€77)
Chiltern Railways frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
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
Optional seat reservation for £3. Free for Advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs allowed with lead
Quiet zone

Hull Trains

About
Hull Trains is a British train operator that provides services between Hull and London. It operates up to five trains per day, with two direct services and three services that require a change at Brough. The trains are modern and comfortable, with two types available: the Super Express and the Express. The Super Express offers a faster journey time and more spacious seating, while the Express is a more economical option. Hull Trains offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. The most popular routes are Hull to London Kings Cross and Hull to Brough. Passengers can also take advantage of the Hull Trains Plus loyalty scheme, which offers discounts and rewards.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Hull Trains Duration
2h 26m
Cheapest Hull Trains Price
$159 (€129)
Hull Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Can be added during booking
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available. Staff assistance for boarding/alighting
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with 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 Nottingham to Reading

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Nottingham 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 Nottingham to Reading can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $30 (€24), while the average price is around $119 (€96).
The train from Nottingham to Reading takes 2h 15m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Nottingham to Reading leaves at 2:24 AM.
The distance by train from Nottingham to Reading is 103 miles (167 km).
The last train from Nottingham to Reading leaves at 10:20 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Nottingham to Reading.
Yes, there is a direct train from Nottingham to Reading. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Nottingham to Reading.
The train station in Nottingham that goes to Reading is Nottingham station (NOT), which connects to Reading station (RDG).
The cheapest way to get from Nottingham to Reading is by bus, with a cost of around $53 (€43).
The train journey from Nottingham to Reading is not particularly known for being scenic, as it primarily travels through urban areas and industrial landscapes. However, passengers can enjoy occasional views of the English countryside.
A day trip from Nottingham to Reading is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 15m. Trains run 7 times 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 Nottingham to Reading.
Since neither Nottingham 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 Nottingham 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 Nottingham to Reading

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

Departure train stations in Nottingham
Arrival train stations in Reading

Which Nottingham station do trains to Reading leave from?

Trains from Nottingham to Reading leave from Nottingham. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Nottingham city centre at Nottingham station, Carrington Street, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG2 3AQ.
NottinghamNottingham station, Carrington Street, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG2 3AQ+44 800 200 6060ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Nottingham from Nottingham city centre

Bus9B, 8, 11, 6, 10, 9, 11C, 10C, 10X, 7, 5, 5A, 11B, 12, 12C, 12E, 10A · 3m · every ~58 min
48, 1, 3, 48X, 1A, 48A, 3A, N4, 1B, 1E · 4m · every ~24 min
Kc · 5m · $5 · every ~12 min
20 · 10m
TramTram · 4m · $5 · every ~58 min

Nottingham train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Nottingham.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Nottingham.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Nottingham. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 08000 11 33 23, 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 Nottingham: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Nottingham: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Nottingham: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a category A access station. There are lifts available to all platforms and there is level and ramp access to the concourse and ticket office/machines. This station has tactile paving at the edge of each platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: none, Accessible taxis: Taxi number displayed on useful information poster at station, 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.

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