- Must visit
Banbury Museum & Gallery
Banbury's main museum explores the town's history, canals, trade, and local life through family-friendly displays and changing exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Banbury
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$13
Average price
$18
Fastest journey
41 m
Average duration
42 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
72 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Banbury is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Banbury will cost around $18 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $13.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Reading for Banbury on Wed, Aug 05, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 72 km distance in an average of 42 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 41 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 43 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.
6:45 AM0h42Reading7:27 AMBanbury$131One-way0 transfers- 10:15 AM0h41Reading10:56 AMBanbury$151One-way0 transfers
- 5:15 PM0h43Reading5:58 PMBanbury$241One-way0 transfers
- 10:15 AM0h41Reading10:56 AMBanbury$151One-way0 transfers
- 6:45 AM0h42Reading7:27 AMBanbury$131One-way0 transfers
- 5:15 PM0h43Reading5:58 PMBanbury$241One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Reading to Banbury
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Banbury among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 48m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $17, and a train costs an average of $13.
Distance: 44 miles (72 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$21 Average price | $17 Average price Cheapest | $19 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 18m Average total duration Fastest 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 34m Average total duration 3h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 20m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Reading to Banbury is a bus with an average price of $17.
This is compared to other travel options from Reading to Banbury:
A bus is $4 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Reading to Banbury costing on average $21.
The fastest way to travel from Reading to Banbury is by train with an average journey time of 48m.
Other travel options to Banbury take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 4m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Banbury including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Banbury 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 32m sooner (48m by train vs 1h 20m by car). Tickets start at around $21 compared to roughly $19 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, Great Western Railway (GWR).
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
Reading to Banbury train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Banbury trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:45 AM Reading | 0h42 | 7:27 AM Banbury | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:15 AM Reading | 0h41 | 10:56 AM Banbury | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:15 PM Reading | 0h43 | 5:58 PM Banbury | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Reading to Banbury 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.
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
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Aug 06
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Aug 11
Why should you book Reading to Banbury trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more offer trains services from Reading to Banbury.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Banbury.
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 Great Western Railway, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Banbury.
- 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Banbury.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Banbury.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Banbury.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Banbury
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Banbury run on average 7 times per day, taking around 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $13 if you book in advance.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:29, the last at 23:34. The fastest train covers the 44 miles (72 km) distance in 41m.
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 44 miles (72 km) |
Average train duration 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $13 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 41m |
First train 5:29 AM |
Last train 11:34 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 4 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, Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Reading to Banbury trainsCrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Reading and Banbury from $13. 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 Duration
41m
Cheapest Price
$13
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
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 1m
Cheapest Price
$26
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
40m
Cheapest Price
$80
Cross Country frequency
16 a day
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
45m
Cheapest Price
$61
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
9 a day
Complete guide to Banbury
Things to do in Banbury
Discover the best of Banbury — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Banbury trip today.
- Must visit
Blenheim Palace
Grand palace and exhibition site with major collections, art displays, and landscaped grounds in a leading heritage destination nearby.
- Recommended
Tooley's Boatyard Museum
Historic canal-side workshop museum showing traditional boatbuilding skills and the working heritage of Banbury's waterways.
- Must visit
Oxford Canal Towpath
Pleasant canal-side trail ideal for walking and cycling, offering locks, boats, and a strong sense of Banbury's industrial heritage.
- Recommended
High Street
Main shopping street and historic route through central Banbury, good for seeing everyday town life and local architecture.
- Recommended
Spiceball Park
Attractive waterside walking area around the museum and lock, popular for strolling, boating views, and relaxed town-centre scenery.
- Vegetarian
Banbury Cake
A spiced fruit-filled pastry linked to the old Banbury cake trade. It is the town's best-known traditional food and a classic local teatime treat.
- Vegetarian
Oxfordshire Lardy or Fruit Bun
A soft yeast bun with currants or raisins, baked in nearby Oxfordshire and widely eaten with butter at tea time across the county.
Oxfordshire Sausage
A rich sausage made with pork, herbs and seasoning, strongly associated with Oxford and commonly served in pubs around the area.
Voujon
Well-regarded modern Indian restaurant with stylish interiors and a broad menu of curries, grills and regional specialties.
Restaurant at The Three Pigeons
Established Banbury restaurant known for polished British and European cooking in a smart but relaxed town-centre setting.
Ye Olde Reine Deer Inn
Popular historic pub in central Banbury serving classic British meals, ales and a traditional atmosphere in an old coaching inn.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for England. Hotels and dining cost less than London, while local buses and casual meals are reasonably priced for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.50
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Banbury Railway Station -> Banbury Cross, Banbury
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Most local buses in Banbury accept contactless card payment. Check the operator before boarding if you need cash fares.
- Banbury town centre is walkable from the railway station in about 10 min. Use the Stagecoach Bus app for live departures and tickets.
FAQs: Trains from Reading to Banbury
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Banbury 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 Banbury, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Reading to Banbury can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $13, while the average price is around $21.
The train from Reading to Banbury takes 41m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Reading to Banbury leaves at 5:29 AM.
The distance by train from Reading to Banbury is 44 miles (72 km).
The last train from Reading to Banbury leaves at 11:34 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Reading to Banbury.
Yes, there is a direct train from Reading to Banbury. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Banbury.
The train station in Reading that goes to Banbury is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Banbury station (BAN).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Banbury is by train, with a cost of around $13.
The train journey from Reading to Banbury offers picturesque views of the English countryside, with rolling hills, charming villages, and lush fields along the route, making it a scenic experience.
Yes, a day trip from Reading to Banbury is feasible as the journey takes 41m and covers a distance of 44 miles (72 km). There are 5 trains available per day for this route.
To explore Banbury's rich history, charming streets, and nearby attractions, a stay of 1 to 2 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Banbury.
Since neither Reading nor Banbury 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 Banbury include Oxford, London, Birmingham, Leamington Spa, Warwick.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Banbury 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 Banbury, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as markets and near transportation hubs. It's advisable to stay alert when using public transport and avoid accepting unsolicited offers for rides or tickets. Additionally, watch out for scams involving overpriced taxi fares and always use licensed taxi services. Keeping personal belongings secure and being aware of surroundings can help ensure a safe visit.
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 Reading to Banbury
Most Reading to Banbury trains use the Reading to Banbury station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Banbury train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Reading
Arrival train stations in Banbury
Which Reading station do trains to Banbury leave from?
Trains from Reading to Banbury leave from Reading. The station is from Reading city centre at Reading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ.
ReadingReading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading from Reading city centre
Bus26, 90, 87 · 2m · $2 · every ~15 min
Reading train station facilities and services
Reading has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Reading.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Reading.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Reading.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Reading: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Reading: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: platforms can be reached via lift and bridge, ticket office is step free, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Accessible low-level Pay Phone is available at the station main concourse. Please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxi are available at the station entrance. please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office and at the car park, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Reading WestReading West station, Oxford Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 7PY
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading West from Reading city centre
Reading West is 1 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainReading - Basingstoke, Reading - Newbury, Reading - Bedwyn, London Paddington - Bedwyn · 2m · $1 · every ~6 min
Bus15, 15a, 16, 17, 91, 85, 88, 93, 43 · 4m · $2 · every ~49 min
Reading West train station facilities and services
Reading West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Reading West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Reading West.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Reading West: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Reading West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category B3 - This station has a degree of step free access but only to Platform 1 and only if accessed via Tilehurst Road. Otherwise this station can be classified as Category C. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
TilehurstTilehurst station, Oxford Road, Tilehurst, Berkshire, RG31 6TH+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Tilehurst from Reading city centre
Tilehurst is 4 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Paddington - Didcot Parkway, Reading - Didcot Parkway · 3m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus16, 85, 88, 18, 93, 43 · 16m · $2 · every ~18 min
16, 85, 88, 18, 93, 43 · 19m · $2 · every ~18 min
Tilehurst train station facilities and services
Tilehurst has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Tilehurst.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Tilehurst.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Tilehurst.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Tilehurst: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Tilehurst: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Tilehurst: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step free Category C - This station does not have step free access to operational platforms, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible Taxis available at this station Please call our free help line for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: No, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Banbury station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Banbury arrive at Banbury. Banbury is 0 miles (1 km) from Banbury city centre.
BanburyBanbury station, Station Road, Banbury, Oxfordshire, OX16 5AB+44 3456005165
City-centre transport
Getting to Banbury from Banbury city centre
BusB9 · 9m · $2 · every ~12 min
Mrt1 · 25m
Banbury train station facilities and services
Banbury has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Banbury.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Banbury. ATMs are available at Banbury.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Banbury.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Banbury: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Banbury: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Banbury: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Access Category A. Step free access to all platforms via lifts, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: If you would like us to assist you in booking an accessible taxi for your onward journey please contact 03456 005 165, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Friday 05:00 - 00:15 Saturday 05:00 - 00:15 Sunday 08:00 - 00:20, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Banbury
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Banbury and Reading
Most popular train connections to Banbury
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