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The cheapest and fastest trains from Plymouth to Reading
Showing times and prices for May 07
Cheapest price
$101
Average price
$162
Fastest journey
2 h 35 m
Average duration
2 h 41 m
Trains per day
12
Distance
253 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Plymouth to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Plymouth to Reading will cost around $162 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $101.
Fast trains
Of the 12 trains that leave Plymouth for Reading on Thu, May 07, 9 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, May 07 the direct trains cover the 253 km distance in an average of 2 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 35 m .
On Thu, May 07 the slowest trains will take 2 h 45 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.
P226029:15 AM2h45Plymouth station (PLY)12:00 PMReading station (RDG)$1011One-way0 transfers- P2972110:15 AM2h43Plymouth station (PLY)12:58 PMReading station (RDG)$1011One-way0 transfers
- P226018:35 AM3h05Plymouth station (PLY)11:40 AMReading station (RDG)$1011One-way0 transfers
C75336+P2280310:27 AM3h19Plymouth station (PLY)1:46 PMReading station (RDG)$1021One-way1 transfer- C75334+P228019:27 AM3h17Plymouth station (PLY)12:44 PMReading station (RDG)$1021One-way1 transfer
- P297106:55 AM2h35Plymouth station (PLY)9:30 AMReading station (RDG)$2491One-way0 transfers
- P225995:55 AM2h40Plymouth station (PLY)8:35 AMReading station (RDG)$2491One-way0 transfers
- P226008:16 AM2h42Plymouth station (PLY)10:58 AMReading station (RDG)$1451One-way0 transfers
- P2972110:15 AM2h43Plymouth station (PLY)12:58 PMReading station (RDG)$1011One-way0 transfers
- P226029:15 AM2h45Plymouth station (PLY)12:00 PMReading station (RDG)$1011One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Plymouth to Reading
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Plymouth to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $61. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 59m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $61, and a bus costs an average of $23.
Distance: 157 miles (253 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$95 Average price Cheapest | $106 Average price | $67 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 29m Average total duration Fastest 2h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 37m Average total duration 6h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 32m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Plymouth to Reading is a train with an average price of $95 (€76).
This is compared to other travel options from Plymouth to Reading:
A train is $11 (€9) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Plymouth to Reading costing on average $106 (€84).
The fastest way to travel from Plymouth to Reading is by train with an average journey time of 2h 59m.
Other travel options to Reading take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 7m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Plymouth and Reading including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Plymouth 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 33m sooner (2h 59m by train vs 3h 32m by car). Tickets start at around $95 (€76) compared to roughly $67 (€54) 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 first_great_western.
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
Plymouth to Reading train times
The table below shows live departures for Plymouth to Reading trains for tomorrow, Thursday, May 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P22598 | 4:54 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h07 | 8:01 AM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P22771 | 5:32 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h24 | 8:56 AM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P22599 | 5:55 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 2h40 | 8:35 AM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P22773 | 6:37 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h25 | 10:02 AM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P29710 | 6:55 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 2h35 | 9:30 AM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C75330+P22797 | 7:27 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h23 | 10:50 AM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| P22600 | 8:16 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 2h42 | 10:58 AM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P22601 | 8:35 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h05 | 11:40 AM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P22602 | 9:15 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 2h45 | 12:00 PM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C75334+P22801 | 9:27 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h17 | 12:44 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| P29721 | 10:15 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 2h43 | 12:58 PM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C75336+P22803 | 10:27 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h19 | 1:46 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 Plymouth 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
May 07
May 07
Fri
May 08
May 08
Sat
May 09
May 09
Sun
May 10
May 10
Mon
May 11
May 11
Tue
May 12
May 12
Wed
May 13
May 13
Why should you book Plymouth to Reading trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry or first_great_western offer trains services from Plymouth to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Plymouth 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 CrossCountry or first_great_western to find the best option for your trip from Plymouth 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 Plymouth to Reading.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or first_great_western to find the best option for your trip from Plymouth to Reading.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Plymouth to Reading.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Plymouth to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Plymouth to Reading run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $61 (€49) but you can travel from only $23 (€19) by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:48, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 157 miles (253 km) distance in 2h 40m.
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 $23 (€19)
Distance 157 miles (253 km) |
Average train duration 2h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $61 (€49) |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 2h 40m |
First train 12:48 AM |
Last train 11:56 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 28 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $23 (€19)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, first_great_western from Plymouth to Reading trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, first_great_western trains will get you between Plymouth and Reading from $23 (€19). 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
2h 40m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€49)
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
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 Duration
3h 17m
Cheapest Price
$94 (€75)
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
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 34m
Cheapest Price
$216 (€172)
first_great_western frequency
16 a day
FAQs: Trains from Plymouth to Reading
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Plymouth 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 Plymouth to Reading can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $61 (€49), while the average price is around $95 (€76).
The train from Plymouth to Reading takes 2h 40m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Plymouth to Reading is 157 miles (253 km).
The first train from Plymouth to Reading leaves at 12:48 AM.
The last train from Plymouth to Reading leaves at 11:56 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Plymouth to Reading.
Yes, there is a direct train from Plymouth to Reading. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by first_great_western.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Plymouth to Reading.
The train station in Plymouth that goes to Reading is Plymouth station (PLY), which connects to Reading station (RDG).
The cheapest way to get from Plymouth to Reading is by bus, with a cost of around $23 (€19).
The train journey from Plymouth to Reading offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the beautiful Devon countryside, the edge of Dartmoor, and along the picturesque coastline near Dawlish, before moving into the rolling landscapes of Somerset and Wiltshire.
A day trip from Plymouth to Reading is not feasible, as the journey takes 2h 40m. Trains run 6 times per day. The distance is 157 miles (253 km).
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 Plymouth to Reading.
Since neither Plymouth 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 Plymouth 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 Plymouth to Reading
Plymouth
Reading
The major train station for departures in Plymouth is Plymouth. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Plymouth for your trip from Plymouth to Reading.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:25 - 20:00 Saturday 05:20 - 19:00 Sunday 08:00 - 20:30
Shopping
- Type of shops available: WHSmith and Spar Supermarket
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to all platforms via lifts and the station subway. 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 car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible public telephones: Station pay phones are not accessible
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance.
- 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.
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4, Platform 7 and adjacent ticket counters.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The radar key is available from station staff.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Within accessible wc's
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Platforms 3 and 4
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Plymouth
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Front of the station
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
2 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access note: Step-free category B3 station – “Some step-free access, may be in one direction only.” Step free access possible to South bound platform, there is no step free access for services to Plymouth. 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 not available
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Devonport
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Albert Road Bus Stop adjacent to Exmouth Road.
Dockyard
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
2 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Step free Category C Station - This station does not have step free access to any platform. 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 not available
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transit options for Dockyard
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: From the bus stops on Keyham Road (B3396) near the turning to Keat Street
The major train station for arrivals in Reading is Reading. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Reading for your journey to Reading from Plymouth.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike 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
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost 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.
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityMost popular train connections from Plymouth
More options for your journey from Plymouth to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Plymouth
Most popular train connections to Reading
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