Reading to Cambridge train with Great Northern

Fri, Jul 31
+ Add return
Great Northern
Greater Anglia
Thameslink
Elizabeth line
Great Western Railway (GWR)
2,000+ travel companies
Great Northern
Greater Anglia
Thameslink
Elizabeth line
Great Western Railway (GWR)
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Cambridge

Showing times and prices for Jul 31

Cheapest price

$90

Average price

$90

Fastest journey

1 h 57 m

Average duration

2 h 12 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

111 km

Cheap tickets

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

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

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Reading to Cambridge without transferring at least once.

  • Elizabeth lineC37745+ThameslinkW45478
    8:13 AM2h22
    Reading station (RDG)
    10:35 AMCambridge South
    $901One-way
    1 transfer
  • Great Western RailwayW35357+ThameslinkW45478+TubeTube from London Paddington to Farringdon
    8:18 AM2h17
    Reading station (RDG)
    10:35 AMCambridge South
    $901One-way
    2 transfers
  • Elizabeth lineC37753+Greater AngliaP76273
    8:24 AM2h38
    Reading station (RDG)
    11:02 AMCambridge South
    $901One-way
    1 transfer
  • Elizabeth lineC37788+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+Great NorthernG27006
    8:45 AM2h24
    Reading station (RDG)
    11:09 AMCambridge South
    $901One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayG14896+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+Great NorthernC93356
    8:42 AM1h57
    Reading station (RDG)
    10:39 AMCambridge South
    $901One-way
    2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Reading to Cambridge

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Reading to Cambridge run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $45 (€37) but you can travel from only $14 (€11) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:40, the last at 23:12. The fastest train covers the 68 miles (111 km) distance in 2h 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 $14 (€11)
Distance
68 miles (111 km)
Average train duration
1h 59m
Cheapest ticket price
$45 (€37)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
2h 2m
First train
12:40 AM
Last train
11:12 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
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 $14 (€11)

Live departures

Reading to Cambridge train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+Great NorthernC93350+Great Western RailwayW345528:10 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h59
10:09 AM Cambridge South2 transfers
Elizabeth lineC37745+ThameslinkW454788:13 AM Reading station (RDG)
2h22
10:35 AM Cambridge South1 transfer
TubeTube from London Paddington to Farringdon+ThameslinkW45478+Great Western RailwayW353578:18 AM Reading station (RDG)
2h17
10:35 AM Cambridge South2 transfers
Elizabeth lineC37753+Greater AngliaP762738:24 AM Reading station (RDG)
2h38
11:02 AM Cambridge South1 transfer
TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+Great NorthernC93356+Great Western RailwayG148968:42 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h57
10:39 AM Cambridge South2 transfers
Elizabeth lineC37788+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+Great NorthernG270068:45 AM Reading station (RDG)
2h24
11:09 AM Cambridge South2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Reading to Cambridge trains with Omio?

Great Northern as well as Greater Anglia, Thameslink, Elizabeth line, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more offer trains services from Reading to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Cambridge.

Why book with Omio vs Great Northern?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Northern, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia, Thameslink, Elizabeth line or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Cambridge.
  • 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 Northern with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Cambridge.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia, Thameslink, Elizabeth line or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Cambridge.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Cambridge.

Train companies: Great Northern, Greater Anglia, Thameslink, Elizabeth line, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Reading to Cambridge trainsGreat Northern, Greater Anglia, Thameslink, Elizabeth line, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Reading and Cambridge from $14 (€11). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Greater Anglia

About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 37m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€37)
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone

Great Northern

About
Great Northern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It offers a wide range of services, including high-speed trains, regional trains, and sleeper services. The high-speed trains are called InterCity Express Trains and they offer a fast and comfortable journey between major cities. The regional trains are called Regional Express Trains and they provide a slower but more frequent service to smaller towns and villages. The sleeper services are called Caledonian Sleeper Trains and they offer overnight journeys with comfortable sleeping compartments. Great Northern offers a variety of ticket types, including single, return, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Great Northern are London to Cambridge, London to Peterborough, and London to Norwich. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 2m
Cheapest Price
$88 (€72)
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free, maximum two dogs per passenger, must be on lead
Quiet zone

Thameslink

About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 4m
Cheapest Price
$88 (€72)
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Elizabeth line

About
Tfl Rail is a railway service operated by Transport for London in the United Kingdom. It operates on the Great Western Main Line and the Heathrow branch of the London Underground. The service runs from Paddington in London to Reading, Maidenhead, Slough, and Heathrow Airport. It also serves the towns of Taplow, Burnham, Twyford, and Hayes & Harlington. All trains are air-conditioned and feature onboard Wi-Fi, power sockets, and digital information screens. Tfl Rail offers a range of ticket types, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and Oyster cards. Oyster cards are the most popular ticket type, allowing passengers to pay for their journey with a single card. The most popular routes for Tfl Rail are Paddington to Reading, Paddington to Maidenhead, and Paddington to Heathrow Airport. These routes offer frequent services and provide passengers with a convenient way to travel between London and the surrounding areas.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 31m
Cheapest Price
$55 (€45)
Elizabeth line frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available through TfL website or customer service
Refund
Full refund available for service cancellations
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
No dedicated dining car. Passengers can bring their own food and drinks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Step-free access at most stations, wheelchair spaces on trains, priority seating
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be leashed. Guide dogs welcome
Quiet zone

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 52m
Cheapest Price
$121 (€99)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
17 a day

Complete guide to Cambridge

Things to do in Cambridge

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

  • Must visit

The Fitzwilliam Museum

Major university museum with masterpieces, antiquities and decorative arts in a grand building. A leading cultural highlight in Cambridge.

  • Recommended

Scott Polar Research Institute Museum

Compact museum of polar exploration with artifacts, sledges and expedition stories. Excellent for understanding Arctic and Antarctic history.

  • Recommended

Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

Acclaimed anthropology museum displaying world cultures through remarkable objects and thoughtful interpretation. Rich, memorable and family friendly.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost more in peak season, but dining and local buses are manageable for most tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included; if not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Reading to Cambridge

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Reading to Cambridge can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $45 (€37), while the average price is around $83 (€68).
The train from Reading to Cambridge takes 2h 2m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Reading to Cambridge is 68 miles (111 km).
The first train from Reading to Cambridge leaves at 12:40 AM.
The last train from Reading to Cambridge leaves at 11:12 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Reading to Cambridge.
There is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Cambridge.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Cambridge.
The train station in Reading that goes to Cambridge is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Cambridge station (CBG).
The train journey from Reading to Cambridge offers a mix of urban and countryside views, with stretches of scenic landscapes, including glimpses of the Chiltern Hills and rural Cambridgeshire, providing a pleasant travel experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Cambridge.
Popular day trips by train from Cambridge include London, Stevenage, Hitchin, Peterborough, Letchworth Garden City.
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 Cambridge, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as market squares and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides offering services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official tour operators. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction scams near popular landmarks. Staying alert and securing personal belongings 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 Cambridge

Most Reading to Cambridge trains use the Reading to Cambridge station pair, with some services arriving at Cambridge North. Use this guide to compare Reading and Cambridge 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 Cambridge

Which Reading station do trains to Cambridge leave from?

Trains from Reading to Cambridge 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.

More options for your journey from Reading to Cambridge

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