Reading to Croydon train with Great Western Railway

Sun, Jun 21
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Great Western Railway
South Western Railway
Thameslink
Elizabeth line
Elizabeth Line (TfL)
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
South Western Railway
Thameslink
Elizabeth line
Elizabeth Line (TfL)
2,000+ travel companies
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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 prices starting from $36. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 23m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $36, and a bus costs an average of $44.

Distance: 37 miles (61 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$37

Average price

Cheapest

$44

Average price

$18

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 53m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 23m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 33m

Average total duration

3h 3m

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 $37 (€31).

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

A train is $7 (€5) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Reading to Croydon costing on average $44 (€36).

The fastest way to travel from Reading to Croydon is by train with an average journey time of 1h 23m.

Other travel options to Croydon take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 3m.

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 6m sooner (1h 23m by train vs 1h 29m by car). Tickets start at around $37 (€31) compared to roughly $18 (€14) 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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Jun 21
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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
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Reading to Croydon run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $36 (€30) 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 1h 43m.

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 23m
Cheapest ticket price
$36 (€30)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
1h 43m
First train
12:03 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
28 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: Great Western Railway, South Western Railway, Thameslink, Elizabeth line, Elizabeth Line (TfL), Great Western Railway (GWR) from Reading to Croydon trainsGreat Western Railway, South Western Railway, Thameslink, Elizabeth line, Elizabeth Line (TfL), Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Reading and Croydon from $36 (€30). 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 31m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€31)
Great Western Railway frequency
5 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 Duration
1h 43m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€30)
South Western Railway frequency
12 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
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
Elizabeth line frequency
2 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

Elizabeth Line (TfL)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 29m
Cheapest Price
$48 (€39)
Elizabeth Line (TfL) frequency
7 a day

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 3m
Cheapest Price
$62 (€51)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
31 a day

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Reading to Croydon can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $36 (€30), while the average price is around $37 (€31).
The train from Reading to Croydon takes 1h 43m and runs 6 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 $36 (€30).
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 1h 43m 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, with some services arriving at Purley. 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 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 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.

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.

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