Reading to Cambridge train with Great Northern

Tue, Jun 16
+ 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 Jun 16

Cheapest price

$90

Average price

$90

Fastest journey

2 h 1 m

Average duration

2 h 15 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 lineC37753+Greater AngliaP76273
    8:24 AM2h43
    Reading station (RDG)
    11:07 AMCambridge station (CBG)
    $901One-way
    1 transfer
  • Elizabeth lineC37788+ThameslinkW45424
    8:45 AM2h24
    Reading station (RDG)
    11:09 AMCambridge station (CBG)
    $901One-way
    1 transfer
  • Elizabeth lineC37745+ThameslinkW45478
    8:13 AM2h26
    Reading station (RDG)
    10:39 AMCambridge station (CBG)
    $901One-way
    1 transfer
  • Great NorthernC93356+Great Western RailwayG14896+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross
    8:42 AM2h01
    Reading station (RDG)
    10:43 AMCambridge station (CBG)
    $901One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great NorthernC93350+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+Great Western RailwayW34552
    8:10 AM2h03
    Reading station (RDG)
    10:13 AMCambridge station (CBG)
    $901One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Reading to Cambridge

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 59m. 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 bus costs an average of $14, and a train costs an average of $46.

Distance: 68 miles (111 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$84

Average price

$69

Average price

Cheapest

$32

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 29m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 40m

Average total duration

4h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 1m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Great Northern

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 Cambridge is a bus with an average price of $69 (€56).

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

A bus is $15 (€12) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Reading to Cambridge costing on average $84 (€68).

The fastest way to travel from Reading to Cambridge is by train with an average journey time of 1h 59m.

Other travel options to Cambridge take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 10m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Cambridge including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Cambridge 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 2m sooner (1h 59m by train vs 2h 1m by car). Tickets start at around $84 (€68) compared to roughly $32 (€26) 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.

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 Cambridge train times

The table below shows live departures for Reading to Cambridge trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, June 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great NorthernC93350+Great Western RailwayW34552+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross8:10 AM Reading station (RDG)
2h03
10:13 AM Cambridge station (CBG)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45478+Elizabeth lineC377458:13 AM Reading station (RDG)
2h26
10:39 AM Cambridge station (CBG)1 transfer
ThameslinkW45478+Great Western RailwayW35357+TubeTube from London Paddington to Farringdon8:18 AM Reading station (RDG)
2h21
10:39 AM Cambridge station (CBG)2 transfers
Greater AngliaP76273+Elizabeth lineC377538:24 AM Reading station (RDG)
2h43
11:07 AM Cambridge station (CBG)1 transfer
Great NorthernC93356+Great Western RailwayG14896+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross8:42 AM Reading station (RDG)
2h01
10:43 AM Cambridge station (CBG)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45424+Elizabeth lineC377888:45 AM Reading station (RDG)
2h24
11:09 AM Cambridge station (CBG)1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Reading to Cambridge 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
Jun 16
Wed
Jun 17
Thu
Jun 18
Fri
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22

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.

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 $46 (€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
$46 (€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)

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
$46 (€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
$89 (€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
$90 (€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
$122 (€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

The University of Cambridge’s flagship museum, known for major collections of art, antiquities, and manuscripts. A top cultural stop with free permanent galleries.

  • Must visit

Kettle’s Yard

A renowned modern and contemporary art house museum with intimate displays and a distinctive domestic setting. One of Cambridge’s most characterful art venues.

  • Recommended

Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

University museum with important world archaeology and anthropology collections, including Pacific, African, and British material. Excellent for a deeper academic side of Cambridge.

Pound sterling

Costs are high by UK standards, especially for hotels and dining in the centre, though markets and pubs offer cheaper options.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway, street food, or a simple cafe meal.
Mid-range
GBP 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant or pub.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or flat white.

Tipping culture

Service charge may be added in restaurants; if not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up in taxis. Tipping is not expected for counter service, though 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 $46 (€37), while the average price is around $84 (€68).
The train from Reading to Cambridge takes 2h 2m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Reading to Cambridge leaves at 12:40 AM.
The distance by train from Reading to Cambridge is 68 miles (111 km).
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 cheapest way to get from Reading to Cambridge is by bus, with a cost of around $14 (€11).
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.
A day trip from Reading to Cambridge is feasible with a travel duration of 2h 2m and a distance of 68 miles (111 km). There are 5 train trips available per day.
In Cambridge, you can enjoy punting on the River Cam for scenic views, visit the interactive Cambridge Science Centre, explore the historic Market Square, or attend a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre. Discover the city's rich history on a guided walking tour. Don't miss the stunning King's College Chapel, the art-filled Fitzwilliam Museum, the picturesque Backs, the historic Trinity College, and the tranquil Cambridge University Botanic Garden.
For a fulfilling experience in Cambridge, spending two to three days is ideal to explore its historic colleges, museums, and the picturesque River Cam.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Cambridge.
Since neither Reading nor Cambridge 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 Cambridge include London, Stevenage, Hitchin, Peterborough, Letchworth Garden City.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Cambridge 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 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

Reading
Cambridge
The major train station for departures in Reading is Reading. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Reading for your trip from Reading to Cambridge.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:15 - 22:45 Saturday 05:30 - 22:45 Sunday 07:15 - 22:45 Please note: Reservations and tickets requiring reservations are sold at the following times only: Mon - Sat 08:00 - 20:00 and Sun 09:00 - 20:00
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Multi Storey Car Park
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Toilets are located on Station Platforms and in The Brunel Arcade building
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Front of station, underground short stay car park and long stay car park.
  • Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Reading
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the North side of the station
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 10:45 Saturday - Sunday Closed
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Reading West
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Towards Reading: Bus Stop on Oxford Road under Railway Bridge. Heading away from Reading Bus Stop on Oxford Road, outside McDonalds.

More options for your journey from Reading to Cambridge

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