- Must visit
Derby Museum and Art Gallery
Derby’s leading museum with art, archaeology, and natural history, best known for its important Joseph Wright collection.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Derby
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
€56
Average price
€67
Fastest journey
2 h 6 m
Average duration
2 h 8 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
167 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Derby is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Derby will cost around €67 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €56.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Reading for Derby on Tue, Aug 04, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 04 the direct trains cover the 167 km distance in an average of 2 h 8 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 6 m .
On Tue, Aug 04 the slowest trains will take 2 h 10 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
8:51 AM2h06Reading10:57 AMDerby€561One-way0 transfers- 10:46 AM2h10Reading12:56 PMDerby€771One-way0 transfers
- 8:51 AM2h06Reading10:57 AMDerby€561One-way0 transfers
- 10:46 AM2h10Reading12:56 PMDerby€771One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Reading to Derby
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Derby among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 16m. 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 €15, and a train costs an average of €23.
Distance: 103 miles (167 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€67 Average price | €58 Average price Cheapest | €38 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 46m Average total duration Fastest 2h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 47m Average total duration 6h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 47m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Reading to Derby is a bus with an average price of €58.
This is compared to other travel options from Reading to Derby:
A bus is €10 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Reading to Derby costing on average €67.
The fastest way to travel from Reading to Derby is by train with an average journey time of 2h 16m.
Other travel options to Derby take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 17m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Derby including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Derby 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 31m sooner (2h 16m by train vs 2h 47m by car). Tickets start at around €67 compared to roughly €38 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with CrossCountry, Cross Country.
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 Derby train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Derby trains for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:15 AM Reading | 2h21 | 10:36 AM Derby | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:45 AM Reading | 2h13 | 1:58 PM Derby | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Reading to Derby 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.
Tue
Aug 04
Aug 04
Wed
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Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
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Aug 10
Why should you book Reading to Derby trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as East Midlands Railway or Cross Country offer trains services from Reading to Derby.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Derby.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of East Midlands Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Derby.
- 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Derby.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of East Midlands Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Derby.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Derby.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Derby
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Derby run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €23 but you can travel from only €15 by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:24, the last at 22:20. The fastest train covers the 103 miles (167 km) distance in 2h 6m.
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 €15
Distance 103 miles (167 km) |
Average train duration 2h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price €23 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 2h 6m |
First train 2:24 AM |
Last train 10:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 84 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 €15
Train companies: CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Cross Country from Reading to Derby trainsCrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Cross Country trains will get you between Reading and Derby from €15. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 6m
Cheapest Price
€23
CrossCountry frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
East Midlands Railway
About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 41m
Cheapest Price
€126
East Midlands Railway frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the 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
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 6m
Cheapest Price
€150
Cross Country frequency
16 a day
Complete guide to Derby
Things to do in Derby
Discover the best of Derby — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Derby trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Making at Derby Silk Mill
Excellent museum of making in a restored silk mill, exploring Derby’s industrial innovation with interactive displays and river views.
- Recommended
Pickford's House Museum
Historic Georgian house with period rooms and changing displays, offering an intimate look at local life and Derby’s past residents.
- Must visit
Darley Park
Riverside public park with mature trees, gardens, and monuments, ideal for a gentle walk close to Derby’s museums and cathedral.
- Must visit
Cathedral Quarter
Compact historic quarter around the cathedral with cobbled lanes, galleries, and heritage buildings, full of local character.
- Recommended
Market Place
Main city-centre square framed by historic buildings, markets, and events; a practical starting point for exploring central Derby.
- Vegetarian
Derbyshire Apple Pudding
A classic Derbyshire pudding of stewed apples topped with a pastry crust. It is a long-standing regional dessert found in local homes and pubs.
- Vegetarian
Derby Sage Cheese Cob
Bread or rolls filled with melted Derby Sage cheese and onion. This simple local snack highlights the county's famous herb-flavoured cheese.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Stilton
A crumbly blue-veined cheese made in Derbyshire. It is one of England's best-known regional cheeses and a staple on local cheeseboards.
Restaurant Zamanis
Refined modern British tasting menus in an elegant, intimate setting. One of Derby's best-known fine dining destinations.
The Dining Room
Stylish restaurant and wine bar serving British and European dishes. Popular for polished cooking and a smart but relaxed atmosphere.
The Brunswick Inn
Historic pub in a former railway building, known for cask ales and classic pub meals. A strong choice for Derby beer culture.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips, but spare change is appreciated.
trentbarton
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £5.20
To the city center
Derby Railway Station -> Derby Riverlights Bus Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on many Derby buses, including trentbarton services. Check the operator before boarding if you need a specific payment method.
- Derby has no tram or metro system, so local public transport is mainly by bus. Buy tickets in the operator app if you want faster boarding.
FAQs: Trains from Reading to Derby
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Derby 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 Derby, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Reading to Derby can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €23, while the average price is around €67.
The train from Reading to Derby takes 2h 6m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Reading to Derby leaves at 2:24 AM.
The distance by train from Reading to Derby is 103 miles (167 km).
The last train from Reading to Derby leaves at 10:20 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Reading to Derby.
Yes, there is a direct train from Reading to Derby. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Derby.
The train station in Reading that goes to Derby is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Derby station (DBY).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Derby is by bus, with a cost of around €15.
The train journey from Reading to Derby offers a mix of urban and countryside views, passing through the scenic landscapes of the Chiltern Hills and the picturesque countryside of the Midlands, making parts of the route quite pleasant.
A day trip from Reading to Derby is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 6m, which exceeds the 120-minute limit. However, there are 5 train trips available per day.
For a fulfilling visit, spending 2 to 3 days in Derby allows you to explore its key attractions such as the Derby Museum and Art Gallery, Derby Cathedral, and the nearby Peak District.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Derby.
Since neither Reading nor Derby 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 Derby include Leicester, Nottingham, Sheffield, Birmingham, Burton-on-Trent.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Derby 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 Derby, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and public transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi services and counterfeit tickets for events or attractions. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, purchase tickets from official vendors, and stay vigilant in crowded places to ensure safety.
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 Derby
Most Reading to Derby trains use the Reading to Derby station pair, with some services arriving at Spondon. Use this guide to compare Reading and Derby 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 Derby
Which Reading station do trains to Derby leave from?
Trains from Reading to Derby 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 · €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, UK
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.
Which Derby station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Derby most often arrive at Derby. Some services arrive at Spondon, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Derby arrival station.
DerbyDerby station, Railway Terrace, Derby, Derbyshire, DE1 2RU+44 3457125678
City-centre transport
Getting to Derby from Derby city centre
Derby is 1 km from Derby city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus70A · 4m
Sky · 4m · €2 · every ~14 min
U1, Dp1 · 10m · €1 · every ~2 min
Derby train station facilities and services
Derby has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Derby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Derby.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Derby.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Derby: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Derby: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Derby: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A step free station. This station has step free access. There are lifts to all platforms. There is a subway to platforms 2,3,4 and 5. Platforms 6 and 7 are accessed by lift only. This station has tactile paving at the edges of all platforms and at the foot and top of stairwells, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
SpondonSpondon station, Station Road, Spondon, Derbyshire, DE21 7RX
City-centre transport
Getting to Spondon from Derby city centre
Spondon is 4 km from Derby city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainMatlock - Cleethorpes, Matlock - Lincoln Central, Matlock - Nottingham, Derby - Nottingham, Crewe - Lincoln Central, Matlock - Market Rasen, Ambergate - Lincoln Central, Derby - Lincoln Central, Ambergate - Cleethorpes · 4m · €2 · every ~2 min
Bus20 · 19m · €4 · every ~6 min
20 · 39m · €2 · every ~6 min
Spondon train station facilities and services
Spondon has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Spondon.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Spondon: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Spondon: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Spondon: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B. This station has a degree of step free access to the platform which may be in both directions or in one direction only - please check for details. Level ramped access to both platforms from level crossing. This station has tactile paving at the edge of each platform, Accessible taxis: Taxi number displayed on IUP, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Derby
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Derby and Reading
Most popular train connections to Derby
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