Reading to Birmingham train with CrossCountry

Fri, Jul 31
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CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Chiltern Railways
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Chiltern Railways
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Birmingham

Showing times and prices for Jul 31

Cheapest price

$47

Average price

$90

Fastest journey

1 h 27 m

Average duration

1 h 30 m

Trains per day

33

Distance

131 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Reading to Birmingham will cost around $90 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $47.

Fast trains

Of the 33 trains that leave Reading for Birmingham on Fri, Jul 31, 24 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jul 31 the direct trains cover the 131 km distance in an average of 1 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 27 m .

On Fri, Jul 31 the slowest trains will take 1 h 33 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.

  • CrossCountryG00698
    9:43 AM1h35
    Reading station (RDG)
    11:18 AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
    $471One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG00733
    6:45 PM1h33
    Reading station (RDG)
    8:18 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
    $471One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG00738
    6:45 AM1h30
    Reading station (RDG)
    8:15 AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
    $541One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG00726
    5:45 PM1h33
    Reading station (RDG)
    7:18 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
    $541One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG00739
    8:51 AM1h27
    Reading station (RDG)
    10:18 AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
    $601One-way
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Reading to Birmingham

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Reading to Birmingham run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $15 (€12) if you book in advance.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:24, the last at 23:22. The fastest train covers the 81 miles (131 km) distance in 1h 27m.

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
81 miles (131 km)
Average train duration
1h 59m
Cheapest ticket price
$15 (€12)
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
1h 27m
First train
2:24 AM
Last train
11:22 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
14 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

Live departures

Reading to Birmingham train times

The table below shows live departures for Reading to Birmingham trains for tomorrow, Friday, July 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountryG008476:15 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h36
7:51 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG007386:45 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h30
8:15 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG008497:15 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h36
8:51 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayY15412 · C01003+Chiltern RailwaysL373657:18 AM Reading station (RDG)
2h16
9:34 AM Birmingham Moor Street (BMO)2 transfers
CrossCountryG008518:15 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h36
9:51 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG007398:51 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h27
10:18 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG008559:15 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h36
10:51 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG006989:43 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h35
11:18 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG0085810:15 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h36
11:51 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG0070110:46 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h30
12:16 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG0086111:15 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h36
12:51 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG0070611:45 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h32
1:17 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG0086612:15 PM Reading station (RDG)
1h36
1:51 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG0071012:44 PM Reading station (RDG)
1h33
2:17 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect
Avanti West CoastW34232+Great Western RailwayW34566+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston1:05 PM Reading station (RDG)
2h43
3:48 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)2 transfers
CrossCountryG008751:15 PM Reading station (RDG)
1h36
2:51 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect
Avanti West CoastW34289+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston+Great Western RailwayW348821:26 PM Reading station (RDG)
2h30
3:56 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)2 transfers
Avanti West CoastW33938+Great Western RailwayW35369+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston2:00 PM Reading station (RDG)
2h27
4:27 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)2 transfers
CrossCountryG008792:15 PM Reading station (RDG)
1h36
3:51 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect
Avanti West CoastW34287+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston+Great Western RailwayG149922:29 PM Reading station (RDG)
2h27
4:56 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)2 transfers
CrossCountryG007162:45 PM Reading station (RDG)
1h33
4:18 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG008873:15 PM Reading station (RDG)
1h36
4:51 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG007183:43 PM Reading station (RDG)
1h35
5:18 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect
Avanti West CoastW34135+Great Western RailwayW35374+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston4:01 PM Reading station (RDG)
2h26
6:27 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)2 transfers
CrossCountryG008914:15 PM Reading station (RDG)
1h36
5:51 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Reading to Birmingham trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, Great Western Railway, Cross Country and more offer trains services from Reading to Birmingham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Birmingham.

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, Great Western Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Birmingham.
  • 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 Birmingham.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, Great Western Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Birmingham.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Birmingham.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Reading to Birmingham?

The best time to book your train from Reading to Birmingham is 42 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Reading to Birmingham route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Reading to Birmingham per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Reading to Birmingham.

Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, Great Western Railway, Cross Country from Reading to Birmingham trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, Great Western Railway, Cross Country trains will get you between Reading and Birmingham from $15 (€12). 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
1h 27m
Cheapest Price
$15 (€12)
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

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 19m
Cheapest Price
$67 (€55)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Chiltern Railways

About
Chiltern Railways is a regional train company in the United Kingdom which is owned by Arriva Trains and has operated since 1996. Check the different ticket types for your next #[+travelMode] #[+journey]: Duo, Anytime, Season, Super Off Peak, Off Peak and Advance. syn p Chiltern Railways is a train company based in the United Kingdom with trains #[+journey]. 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 Duration
2h 17m
Cheapest Price
$58 (€48)
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

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 17m
Cheapest Price
$44 (€36)
Great Western Railway frequency
2 a day
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
1h 27m
Cheapest Price
$147 (€120)
Cross Country frequency
16 a day

Complete guide to Birmingham

Things to do in Birmingham

Discover the best of Birmingham — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Birmingham trip today.

  • Must visit

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

Major city museum and gallery with fine art, Birmingham history and global collections in a landmark building.

  • Must visit

Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum

Science museum with interactive galleries, engines and family-friendly exhibits in Millennium Point.

  • Recommended

The Barber Institute of Fine Arts

Historic home of the Pre-Raphaelite artists, showing furnished rooms, artworks and craft details.

British pound sterling (£)

Moderate for UK city breaks: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transit and casual meals are fairly manageable for tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
Mid-range
£20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included in restaurants; otherwise tip 10-12.5% for good service. Taxis are often rounded up or tipped about 10%. Tipping in cafes is optional.

FAQs: Trains from Reading to Birmingham

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Birmingham 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 Birmingham, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Reading to Birmingham can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $15 (€12), while the average price is around $46 (€38).
The train from Reading to Birmingham takes 1h 27m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Reading to Birmingham leaves at 2:24 AM.
The distance by train from Reading to Birmingham is 81 miles (131 km).
The last train from Reading to Birmingham leaves at 11:22 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Reading to Birmingham.
Yes, there is a direct train from Reading to Birmingham. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Birmingham.
The train station in Reading that goes to Birmingham is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Birmingham New Street (BHM).
The train journey from Reading to Birmingham offers a mix of urban and countryside views, passing through picturesque areas like the Chiltern Hills and parts of the Cotswolds, making it a moderately scenic route.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Birmingham.
Popular day trips by train from Birmingham include Leicester, Leamington Spa, Coventry, Wolverhampton, Derby.
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 Birmingham, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like shopping districts and public transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, keep valuables secure, and remain alert in crowded places to avoid these risks.
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 Birmingham

Most Reading to Birmingham trains use the Reading to Birmingham New Street station pair, with some services arriving at Birmingham Moor Street. Use this guide to compare Reading and Birmingham 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 Birmingham

Which Reading station do trains to Birmingham leave from?

Trains from Reading to Birmingham 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 3451652030ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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 7PYParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
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 3451652030WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
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.

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