- Recommended
Museum of Croydon
Museum and visitor centre at Britain’s first purpose-built airport, showcasing pioneering aviation history in the original terminal buildings.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Reading to Croydon
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Croydon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of lei249 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 43m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of lei249, while a train costs an average of lei249.
Distance: 37 miles (61 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
lei249 Average price Cheapest | lei82 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
1h 43m Average total duration Fastest 1h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Reading to Croydon is a train with an average price of lei249.
The fastest way to travel from Reading to Croydon is by train with an average journey time of 1h 13m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Croydon including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Croydon 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 16m sooner (1h 13m by train vs 1h 29m by car). Tickets start at around lei249 compared to roughly lei82 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.
Compare prices and tickets Reading to Croydon by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
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Why should you book Reading to Croydon trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as South Western Railway, Thameslink, Elizabeth line, Elizabeth Line (TfL) and more offer trains services from Reading to Croydon.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Croydon.
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 South Western Railway, Thameslink, Elizabeth line or Elizabeth Line (TfL) to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Croydon.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Croydon.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway, Thameslink, Elizabeth line or Elizabeth Line (TfL) to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Croydon.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Croydon.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Croydon
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Croydon run on average 5 times per day, taking around 1h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at lei168 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 37 miles (61 km) distance in 58m.
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 37 miles (61 km) |
Average train duration 1h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price lei168 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 58m |
First train 12:03 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 5 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
Train companies: Thameslink, Great Western Railway, South Western Railway, Elizabeth line from Reading to Croydon trainsThameslink, Great Western Railway, South Western Railway, Elizabeth line trains will get you between Reading and Croydon from lei168. 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 Great Western Railway Duration
58m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
lei188
Great Western Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
South Western Railway
About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average South Western Railway Duration
1h 24m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
lei168
South Western Railway frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs 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 Thameslink Duration
1h 7m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
lei269
Thameslink frequency
2 a day
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 Elizabeth line Duration
1h 24m
Cheapest Elizabeth line Price
lei272
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
Complete guide to Croydon
Things to do in Croydon
Discover the best of Croydon — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Croydon trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of Croydon
Compact local museum telling Croydon’s story through art, objects, and archives, with engaging displays on people, design, and everyday life.
- Recommended
Stanley Arts Gallery
Artist-run gallery and studios in South Norwood presenting contemporary exhibitions, workshops, and community projects with a strong local following.
- Recommended
Wandle Park
Large landscaped park with lakes, gardens, and a manor house museum, ideal for walks, family outings, and a break from the urban centre.
- Recommended
Lloyd Park
One of Croydon’s best-loved parks, known for lakes, mature trees, and broad open spaces that make it excellent for peaceful everyday walking.
- Recommended
South Norwood Country Park
Nature reserve and walking area with scenic ponds and woodland, offering a quieter side of Croydon and good birdwatching opportunities.
Pie And Mash
Pie and mash is a South London staple: minced beef pie with mashed potato and parsley liquor, long linked to working-class eating in nearby London districts.
- Gluten-free
Jellied Eels
Jellied eels are a historic Thames-side dish, served cold in savoury jelly. They are a classic traditional food of Greater London and old East End markets.
Fish And Chips
Fish and chips is a beloved British takeaway of battered fried fish with chips, widely eaten in Croydon and across London as a classic comfort meal.
Restaurant Roots
Refined modern British dining in a polished setting, known for seasonal tasting and à la carte menus from a respected local fine dining team.
The Store
Stylish independent restaurant serving creative small plates and modern European dishes in central Croydon with a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
The Swan And Sugarloaf
Popular gastropub in South Croydon serving British pub classics, Sunday roasts and drinks in a friendly, traditional local setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for Greater London: hotels and dining cost more than many UK towns, but local transit and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 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 in restaurants; otherwise tip 10-12.5% for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional.
TfL Go
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £1.75
- Day pass
- £5.25
To the city center
East Croydon -> Centrale Shopping Centre, Croydon
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Contactless cards and mobile pay work on London Trams and buses in Croydon. Adult pay as you go bus and tram fares are charged at the same rate.
- Use the Hopper fare to take unlimited bus and tram journeys within 1 hour for £1.75. Touch in on trams, but do not touch out.
FAQs: Trains from Reading to Croydon
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Croydon 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 Croydon, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Reading to Croydon can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at lei168, while the average price is around lei249.
The train from Reading to Croydon takes 58m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Reading to Croydon leaves at 12:03 AM.
The distance by train from Reading to Croydon is 37 miles (61 km).
The last train from Reading to Croydon leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Reading to Croydon.
There is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Croydon.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Croydon.
The train station in Reading that goes to Croydon is Reading station (RDG), which connects to East Croydon (ECR).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Croydon is by train, with a cost of around lei168.
The train journey from Reading to Croydon offers varied scenery, including urban landscapes, picturesque countryside, and glimpses of the River Thames, making it a moderately scenic route.
A day trip from Reading to Croydon is feasible with a travel time of 58m and a distance of 37 miles (61 km). Trains run frequently with 5 trips per day.
Typically, spending two to three days in Croydon allows visitors to explore its main attractions, enjoy local dining, and experience nearby sites.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Croydon.
Since neither Reading nor Croydon 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 Croydon include Brighton, Ashtead, Burgess Hill, London, Crawley.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Croydon 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 Croydon, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the town center and public transport hubs. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers. It’s advisable to use licensed transportation services and stay alert in busy locations to avoid these issues.
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 Croydon
Most Reading to Croydon trains use the Reading to East Croydon station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Croydon 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 Croydon
Which Reading station do trains to Croydon leave from?
Trains from Reading to Croydon 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 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading from Reading city centre
Bus26, 90, 87 · 2m · lei11 · 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.
TilehurstTilehurst station, Oxford Road, Tilehurst, Berkshire, RG31 6TH+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Tilehurst from Reading city centre
Tilehurst is 4 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Paddington - Didcot Parkway, Reading - Didcot Parkway · 3m · lei11 · every ~4 min
Bus16, 85, 88, 18, 93, 43 · 16m · lei11 · every ~18 min
16, 85, 88, 18, 93, 43 · 19m · lei11 · every ~18 min
Tilehurst train station facilities and services
Tilehurst has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Tilehurst.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Tilehurst.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Tilehurst.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Tilehurst: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Tilehurst: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Tilehurst: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step free Category C - This station does not have step free access to operational platforms, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible Taxis available at this station Please call our free help line for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: No, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Croydon station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Croydon arrive at East Croydon. East Croydon is 0 miles (1 km) from Croydon city centre.
East CroydonEast Croydon station, Station Approach, Croydon, Greater London, CR0 1LF
City-centre transport
Getting to East Croydon from Croydon city centre
East Croydon is 1 km from Croydon city centre. Public transport options include:
BusN68 · 11m · lei11 · every ~2 min
East Croydon train station facilities and services
East Croydon has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at East Croydon.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at East Croydon. ATMs are available at East Croydon.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at East Croydon.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at East Croydon: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at East Croydon: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at East Croydon: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free access to all platforms. Lifts to overbridge from all platforms and side entrance. Long steep ramps to platforms from main entrance. (over 1:10 gradient). Assistance Meeting Point is the Information Point on station concourse, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Southern ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Croydon
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Croydon and Reading
Most popular train connections to Croydon
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