Reading to Birmingham train with CrossCountry

Tue, Sep 15
+ Add return
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, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 15

Cheapest price on Sep 15

$47

Average ticket price on Sep 15

$87

Fastest journey on Sep 15

1 h 27 m

Average journey duration on Sep 15

1 h 31 m

Trains on Sep 15

22

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 $87 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $47.

Fast trains

On Tue, Sep 15, we found 22 trains from Reading to Birmingham, including 14 direct services.

On Tue, Sep 15 the direct trains cover the 131 km distance in an average of 1 h 31 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 27 m .

On Tue, Sep 15 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.

  • CrossCountryG00879
    2:15 PM1h36
    Reading station (RDG)
    3:51 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
    $471One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG00858
    10:15 AM1h36
    Reading station (RDG)
    11:51 AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
    $471One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG00698
    9:43 AM1h35
    Reading station (RDG)
    11:18 AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
    $471One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG00710
    12:44 PM1h33
    Reading station (RDG)
    2:17 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
    $541One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG00716
    2:45 PM1h33
    Reading station (RDG)
    4:18 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
    $541One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Reading to Birmingham

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Birmingham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $71 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 20m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $71, while a train costs an average of $80.

Distance: 81 miles (131 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$80

Average price

$71

Average price

Cheapest

$48

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 20m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 14m

Average total duration

3h 44m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 14m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

The cheapest way to travel from Reading to Birmingham is a bus with an average price of $71.

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

A bus is $9 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Reading to Birmingham costing on average $80.

The fastest way to travel from Reading to Birmingham is by train with an average journey time of 1h 50m.

Other travel options to Birmingham take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 44m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Birmingham including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Birmingham 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 24m sooner (1h 50m by train vs 2h 14m by car). Tickets start at around $80 compared to roughly $48 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 CrossCountry, Cross Country.

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

Live departures

Reading to Birmingham train times

The table below shows live departures for Reading to Birmingham trains for today, Monday, September 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountryG00851
On time
8:15 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h36
9:51 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG00739
On time
8:51 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h27
10:18 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG00855
On time
9:15 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h36
10:51 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG00698
On time
9:43 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h35
11:18 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG00858
On time
10:15 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h36
11:51 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG00701
On time
10:46 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h30
12:16 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, September 15
Great Western RailwayC48605+Avanti West CoastW34206+West Midlands TrainsP69501
On time
2:24 AM Reading station (RDG)
5h20
7:44 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
2 transfers
Great Western RailwayG15458+Avanti West CoastW338833:54 AM Reading station (RDG)
3h54
7:48 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15458+Avanti West CoastW34065+CrossCountryG669353:54 AM Reading station (RDG)
3h52
7:46 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayC48609+Avanti West CoastW34144+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston4:35 AM Reading station (RDG)
3h25
8:00 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayW34857+CrossCountryG00847+Chiltern RailwaysL376225:40 AM Reading station (RDG)
2h25
8:05 AM Birmingham Moor Street (BMO)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayW34850+Avanti West CoastW34105+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston5:48 AM Reading station (RDG)
2h39
8:27 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Reading to Birmingham 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.

Tue
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21

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.

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 7 times per day, taking around 1h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $19 if you book in advance.

There are 4 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 50m
Cheapest ticket price
$19
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
4
Fastest train
1h 27m
First train
2:24 AM
Last train
11:22 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sun
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

Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, West Midlands Trains from Reading to Birmingham trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, West Midlands Trains trains will get you between Reading and Birmingham from $19. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
1h 27m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$19
CrossCountry frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

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 Avanti West Coast Duration
1h 52m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$79
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
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. Check the different ticket types for your next journey: Duo, Anytime, Season, Super Off Peak, Off Peak and Advance. It operates services from London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, Banbury, Aylesbury, High Wycombe, and Stratford-upon-Avon. It also runs services from Birmingham Moor Street to Stratford-upon-Avon. Chiltern Railways offers a range of train types, including InterCity 125, Class 165 and Class 168 trains. These trains are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, power sockets, and free Wi-Fi. The company offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include a café bar, a shop, and a quiet coach. The most popular routes for Chiltern Railways are London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, and High Wycombe.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Chiltern Railways Duration
1h 35m
Cheapest Chiltern Railways Price
$49
Chiltern Railways frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for £3. Free for Advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs allowed with lead
Quiet zone

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average West Midlands Trains Duration
2h 15m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
$82
West Midlands Trains frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
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
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

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 $19, while the average price is around $80.
The train from Reading to Birmingham takes 1h 27m and runs 7 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 4 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 cheapest way to get from Reading to Birmingham is by train, with a cost of around $19.
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, a day trip from Reading to Birmingham is feasible. The journey takes 1h 27m and covers 81 miles (131 km). Trains run 6 times per day.
In Birmingham, you can explore the historic Jewellery Quarter, take a canal boat tour, and visit the National SEA LIFE Centre. Enjoy performances at the Birmingham Hippodrome and discover history at the Birmingham Back to Backs. Must-see sights include the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Cadbury World, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Symphony Hall, and The Bullring shopping center.
Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore Birmingham's key attractions, including its museums, culinary scene, and shopping areas.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Birmingham.
Since neither Reading nor Birmingham 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 Birmingham include Leicester, Leamington Spa, Coventry, Wolverhampton, Derby.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Birmingham 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 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 Snow Hill. 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.

Reading Green ParkReading RG2 6AU, UKAccessibility
City-centre transport

Getting to Reading Green Park from Reading city centre

Reading Green Park is 3 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainReading - Basingstoke · 6m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus9 · 39m · $2 · every ~3 min

Reading Green Park train station facilities and services

Reading Green Park has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Reading Green Park.

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