- Must visit
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
Major city museum with natural history, archaeology, art, and local collections in a grand building. A top all-round introduction to Bristol.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Bristol
Showing times and prices for Jul 19
Cheapest price
$54
Average price
$55
Fastest journey
1 h 1 m
Average duration
1 h 5 m
Trains per day
16
Distance
113 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Bristol is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Bristol will cost around $55 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $54.
Fast trains
Of the 16 trains that leave Reading for Bristol on Sun, Jul 19, 12 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jul 19 the direct trains cover the 113 km distance in an average of 1 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 1 m .
On Sun, Jul 19 the slowest trains will take 1 h 7 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.
W346779:34 AM1h09Reading station (RDG)10:43 AMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)$541One-way0 transfers- C3302610:55 AM1h07Reading station (RDG)12:02 PMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)$541One-way0 transfers
- C330258:24 AM1h10Reading station (RDG)9:34 AMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)$541One-way0 transfers
- C50048 · C478308:33 AM1h49Reading station (RDG)10:22 AMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)$541One-way1 transfer
- C0122312:55 PM1h07Reading station (RDG)2:02 PMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)$541One-way0 transfers
- C059932:24 PM1h01Reading station (RDG)3:25 PMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)$561One-way0 transfers
- C008395:55 PM1h04Reading station (RDG)6:59 PMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)$541One-way0 transfers
- C3302610:55 AM1h07Reading station (RDG)12:02 PMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)$541One-way0 transfers
- C0122312:55 PM1h07Reading station (RDG)2:02 PMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)$541One-way0 transfers
- C330282:55 PM1h07Reading station (RDG)4:02 PMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)$541One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Reading to Bristol
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Bristol among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $29. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 7m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $29, and a bus costs an average of $10.
Distance: 70 miles (113 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$64 Average price Cheapest | $67 Average price | $41 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 37m Average total duration Fastest 1h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 41m Average total duration 2h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 40m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Reading to Bristol is a train with an average price of $64 (€53).
This is compared to other travel options from Reading to Bristol:
A train is $3 (€2) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Reading to Bristol costing on average $67 (€55).
The fastest way to travel from Reading to Bristol is by train with an average journey time of 1h 7m.
Other travel options to Bristol take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 11m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Bristol including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Bristol among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 33m sooner (1h 7m by train vs 1h 40m by car). Tickets start at around $64 (€53) compared to roughly $41 (€34) 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 Great Western Railway, 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 Bristol train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Bristol trains for tomorrow, Sunday, July 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C33025 | 8:24 AM Reading station (RDG) | 1h10 | 9:34 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C01222 · C00797 | 8:29 AM Reading station (RDG) | 1h51 | 10:20 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 transfer | |
| C50048 · C47830 | 8:33 AM Reading station (RDG) | 1h49 | 10:22 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 transfer | |
| W34677 | 9:34 AM Reading station (RDG) | 1h09 | 10:43 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C33026 | 10:55 AM Reading station (RDG) | 1h07 | 12:02 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34799 · W34990 | 11:01 AM Reading station (RDG) | 1h48 | 12:49 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 transfer | |
| W34690 | 11:55 AM Reading station (RDG) | 1h11 | 1:06 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C01223 | 12:55 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1h07 | 2:02 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34811 · W35001 | 1:01 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1h47 | 2:48 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 transfer | |
| W34700 | 1:55 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1h10 | 3:05 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Reading to Bristol 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.
Sun
Jul 19
Jul 19
Mon
Jul 20
Jul 20
Tue
Jul 21
Jul 21
Wed
Jul 22
Jul 22
Thu
Jul 23
Jul 23
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Jul 24
Jul 24
Sat
Jul 25
Jul 25
Why should you book Reading to Bristol trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Reading to Bristol.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Bristol.
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 Bristol.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Bristol.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Bristol.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Bristol
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Bristol run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 (€24) but you can travel from only $10 (€8) by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 70 miles (113 km) distance in 1h 2m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $10 (€8)
Distance 70 miles (113 km) |
Average train duration 1h 7m |
Cheapest ticket price $29 (€24) |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 1h 2m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 21 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $10 (€8)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Reading to Bristol trainsGreat Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Reading and Bristol from $10 (€8). 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
1h 2m
Cheapest Price
$29 (€24)
Great Western Railway frequency
8 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
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 3m
Cheapest Price
$97 (€80)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
50 a day
Complete guide to Bristol
Things to do in Bristol
Discover the best of Bristol — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bristol trip today.
- Must visit
SS Great Britain
Historic passenger ship designed by Brunel. Explore decks, cabins, and dockside museum displays on one of Bristol’s most famous heritage attractions.
- Must visit
M Shed
Purpose-built city history museum beside the floating harbour. It tells Bristol’s story through people, trade, protest, and everyday life.
- Must visit
Bristol Harbour
Historic waterfront district with museums, boats, walks, and lively public spaces. Ideal for first-time visitors wanting Bristol’s signature atmosphere.
- Must visit
Clifton
Elegant Georgian neighborhood of terraces, crescents, and village-like streets. A classic base for architecture, walks, and access to the bridge.
- Must visit
Clifton Down
Panoramic viewpoint above the Avon Gorge near the suspension bridge. One of Bristol’s best free spots for dramatic landscapes and sunset photos.
Bristol Beef Sandwich
A split-top white roll filled with roast beef, onions and gravy. A Bristol classic tied to the city’s old market and dockside workers.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Bristol Blue Cheese
Bristol’s own blue cheese, made in Somerset and long associated with the city. Rich, creamy and pungent, it reflects the region’s historic cheese trade.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
West Country Cider
Dry, still or sparkling cider made from West Country apples. Bristol’s pubs and cider houses make it a defining local drink with deep regional roots.
Box-E
Historic harbourside restaurant in a converted shipping container. Celebrated for local seafood, oysters and relaxed waterside dining.
Bulrush
Michelin-starred fine dining known for modern British tasting menus, polished service and an intimate, special-occasion atmosphere.
The Bristolian
Beloved casual eatery serving mezze and Middle Eastern plates. Lively, affordable and one of Bristol’s longest-established independent favourites.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for UK city breaks. Hotels and dining are cheaper than London, but central stays, attractions, and transport can still add up for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual eats.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add 10%. Cafes: tipping is optional, small change appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Bristol Temple Meads -> Bristol City Centre
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless and card payment are accepted on most First Bus services in Bristol. You can also use the First Bus app for mobile tickets.
- Bristol has no tram or metro system. Most visitors use buses, and fares can vary by operator outside First Bus routes.
FAQs: Trains from Reading to Bristol
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Bristol 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 Bristol, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Reading to Bristol can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29 (€24), while the average price is around $64 (€53).
The train from Reading to Bristol takes 1h 2m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Reading to Bristol leaves at 12:01 AM.
The distance by train from Reading to Bristol is 70 miles (113 km).
The last train from Reading to Bristol leaves at 11:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Reading to Bristol.
Yes, there is a direct train from Reading to Bristol. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Bristol.
The train station in Reading that goes to Bristol is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Bristol Temple Meads (BRI).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Bristol is by bus, with a cost of around $10 (€8).
The train journey from Reading to Bristol offers picturesque views of the English countryside, including lush green fields, charming villages, and glimpses of the River Thames, making it a scenic route for travelers.
Yes, a day trip from Reading to Bristol is feasible with a travel time of 1h 2m and a distance of 70 miles (113 km). Trains run 6 times per day.
In Bristol, you can visit the Bristol Zoo Gardens for diverse animal exhibits and take a boat tour along the River Avon for unique city views. Explore vibrant street art in the Stokes Croft area and visit the Arnolfini for contemporary arts exhibitions. Enjoy Brandon Hill Park, home to the historic Cabot Tower. Don't miss the Clifton Suspension Bridge for panoramic views of the Avon Gorge and the Bristol Cathedral with its stunning Gothic architecture. Explore the SS Great Britain, a restored passenger steamship and museum, and the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery for diverse collections. St Nicholas Market offers a vibrant experience with food stalls and local crafts.
To fully experience Bristol, including its historic sites, vibrant arts scene, and nearby attractions, plan for a stay of 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Bristol.
Since neither Reading nor Bristol 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 Bristol include Bath, Cardiff, Oxford, Gloucester, Cheltenham.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Bristol 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 Bristol, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and on public transport. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers and counterfeit event tickets. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and buy tickets only from official vendors to avoid these issues. Additionally, travelers should stay aware of their surroundings at night, particularly in less busy areas.
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.
Most popular train connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Bristol
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bristol and Reading
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