- Recommended
Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon
Local museum on Barnstaple's history, archaeology, and culture. A strong first stop for understanding the town and wider North Devon.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Barnstaple
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$78
Average price
$78
Fastest journey
3 h 6 m
Average duration
3 h 6 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
219 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Barnstaple is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Barnstaple will cost around $78 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $78.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Reading for Barnstaple on Wed, Aug 05, 1 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 219 km distance in an average of 3 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 6 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 3 h 6 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.
6:31 PM3h06Reading9:37 PMBarnstaple$781One-way0 transfers
- 6:31 PM3h06Reading9:37 PMBarnstaple$781One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Barnstaple
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Barnstaple run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $73 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:49, the last at 23:11. The fastest train covers the 136 miles (219 km) distance in 3h 6m.
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 136 miles (219 km) |
Average train duration 2h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $73 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 6m |
First train 12:49 AM |
Last train 11:11 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Reading to Barnstaple train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Barnstaple trains for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:29 AM Reading | 3h56 | 3:25 PM Barnstaple | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Reading to Barnstaple trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Reading to Barnstaple.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Barnstaple.
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 Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Barnstaple.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Barnstaple.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Barnstaple.
Train companies: Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Reading to Barnstaple trainsGreat Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Reading and Barnstaple from $73. 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
3h 6m
Cheapest Price
$73
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
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 54m
Cheapest Price
$216
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
12 a day
Complete guide to Barnstaple
Things to do in Barnstaple
Discover the best of Barnstaple — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Barnstaple trip today.
- Recommended
The Plough Arts Centre
Regional arts venue presenting contemporary exhibitions, film, and performances. Worth visiting for changing visual art shows in central Barnstaple.
- Recommended
North Devon Maritime Museum
Maritime museum in a historic signal station at nearby Instow. Displays explain local seafaring and estuary links relevant to North Devon.
- Must visit
Tarka Trail
Traffic-free trail along the old railway, linking Barnstaple with coast and countryside. Excellent for walking or cycling with estuary scenery.
- Recommended
Boutport Street
Historic shopping street lined with characterful buildings. Ideal for appreciating Barnstaple's commercial heritage and everyday town-centre atmosphere.
- Recommended
Rock Park
Green riverside park popular for walks, sports, and family time. It offers open views and a relaxed break close to the town centre.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Devon Clotted Cream
A rich North Devon cream made by slowly heating milk. Served with scones and jam, it is a defining regional treat across Devon tea rooms.
- Vegetarian
Devon Cream Tea
Traditional Devon split scones filled with jam and clotted cream. The Devon style puts cream before jam and is a proud local custom.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Devon Cider
A classic West Country cider from nearby orchards. Dry or sparkling styles are widely drunk in North Devon pubs and with local food.
62 The Bank
Smart modern restaurant in Barnstaple known for seasonal British cooking, tasting menus, and polished service in an intimate setting.
Giovanni's & Luca's
Established Italian restaurant with a loyal local following, serving pasta, pizza, and seafood in a relaxed riverside area.
The Pelican
Historic pub and restaurant in the town centre, popular for cask ales, classic British dishes, and a traditional atmosphere.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and meals are usually lower than major cities, while local buses and everyday dining stay fairly manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 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 optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis, and small change is fine in cafes.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.60
To the city center
Barnstaple Railway Station -> The Square, Barnstaple
- Distance
- 1.1 km
- Travel time
- 14 min
- Most Barnstaple local buses are run by Stagecoach South West. Contactless card payment is generally accepted on board.
- Barnstaple town centre is walkable from the railway station in about 14 min. Check live bus times in the Stagecoach Bus app before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Reading to Barnstaple
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Barnstaple 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 Barnstaple, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Reading to Barnstaple can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $73, while the average price is around $77.
The train from Reading to Barnstaple takes 3h 6m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Reading to Barnstaple leaves at 12:49 AM.
The distance by train from Reading to Barnstaple is 136 miles (219 km).
The last train from Reading to Barnstaple leaves at 11:11 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Reading to Barnstaple.
There is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Barnstaple.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Barnstaple.
The train station in Reading that goes to Barnstaple is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Barnstaple station (BNP).
The train journey from Reading to Barnstaple is considered scenic as it travels through picturesque countryside, including views of rolling hills, charming villages, and parts of the Exmoor National Park, offering passengers a visually pleasing experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Barnstaple.
Popular day trips by train from Barnstaple include Exeter, Bridgwater, Dawlish, Torquay, Newton Abbot.
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 Barnstaple, travelers should be aware of typical urban safety concerns such as pickpocketing in busy areas and on public transport. It's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded spots, especially around the town center and transportation hubs. While scams are not prevalent, travelers should be cautious of unsolicited offers or deals that seem too good to be true, particularly from street vendors or unofficial ticket sellers. Keeping personal belongings secure and purchasing tickets from official sources helps ensure a safe experience.
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 Barnstaple
Most Reading to Barnstaple trains use the Reading to Barnstaple station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Barnstaple 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 Barnstaple
Which Reading station do trains to Barnstaple leave from?
Trains from Reading to Barnstaple 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.
Which Barnstaple station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Barnstaple arrive at Barnstaple. Barnstaple is 0 miles (1 km) from Barnstaple city centre.
BarnstapleBarnstaple station, Station Road, Barnstaple, Devon, EX31 2AU+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Barnstaple from Barnstaple city centre
Bus21, 21A, 372, 301, 71, 72, 319, 155, 15, 21B, 310, 309, 303, 19, 5B, 85 · 5m · $2 · every ~31 min
301, 921, 21B, 310, 309, 303, 19 · 9m · $2 · every ~14 min
Barnstaple train station facilities and services
Barnstaple has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Station Masters Cafe
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Barnstaple.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Barnstaple: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Barnstaple: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Barnstaple: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step free Category A station - step free access available to the 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 car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, 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.
Most popular train connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Barnstaple
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Barnstaple and Reading
Most popular train connections to Barnstaple
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