- Must visit
The Collection Museum
Award-winning archaeology museum with Roman finds, medieval objects, and the famous Lincolnshire limestone display. Essential for history fans.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Lincoln
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$91
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$91
Fastest journey on Sep 20
3 h 31 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
3 h 31 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
Distance
199 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Lincoln is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Lincoln will cost around $91 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $91.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from Reading to Lincoln, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 199 km distance in an average of 3 h 31 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 31 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 3 h 31 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.
9:04 AM3h31Reading12:35 PMLincoln$911One-way0 transfers
- 9:04 AM3h31Reading12:35 PMLincoln$911One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train for Reading to Lincoln
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Lincoln among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $86 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 32m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $86, while a train costs an average of $115.
Distance: 123 miles (199 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$115 Average price | $86 Average price Cheapest | $27 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 32m Average total duration Fastest 3h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 7m Average total duration 6h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Reading to Lincoln is a bus with an average price of $86.
This is compared to other travel options from Reading to Lincoln:
A bus is $29 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Reading to Lincoln costing on average $115.
The fastest way to travel from Reading to Lincoln is by train with an average journey time of 3h 2m.
Other travel options to Lincoln take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 37m.
Yes, you can take a between Reading and Lincoln.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Lincoln 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 23m sooner (3h 2m by train vs 3h 25m by car). Tickets start at around $115 compared to roughly $27 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 Lincoln train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Lincoln trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G08075+ C59602+ C48606 | On time 4:13 AM Reading station (RDG) | 4h35 | 8:48 AM Lincoln Central (LCN) | 2 transfers | |
| C02150+C21223+C48607 | On time 4:55 AM Reading station (RDG) | 4h32 | 9:27 AM Lincoln Central (LCN) | 2 transfers | |
 Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+ W45705+C21624+C48608 | On time 5:43 AM Reading station (RDG) | 4h14 | 9:57 AM Lincoln Central (LCN) | 3 transfers | |
 C37505+Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+C02084+C21222 | 5:59 AM Reading station (RDG) | 4h28 | 10:27 AM Lincoln Central (LCN) | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Reading to Lincoln by train
Compare 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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Sep 20
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Why should you book Reading to Lincoln trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as East Midlands Railway or London North Eastern Railway offer trains services from Reading to Lincoln.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Lincoln.
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 London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Lincoln.
- 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.
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 London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Lincoln.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Lincoln
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Lincoln run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $91 but you can travel from only $78 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:54, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 123 miles (199 km) distance in 2h 17m.
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 $78
Distance 123 miles (199 km) |
Average train duration 3h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price $91 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 2h 17m |
First train 3:54 AM |
Last train 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 35 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 $78
Train companies: London North Eastern Railway, East Midlands Railway, CrossCountry from Reading to Lincoln trainsLondon North Eastern Railway, East Midlands Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Reading and Lincoln from $78. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
2h 17m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
$91
London North Eastern Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
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 East Midlands Railway Duration
2h 35m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
$96
East Midlands Railway frequency
1 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
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 CrossCountry Duration
3h 30m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$98
CrossCountry frequency
1 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
Complete guide to Lincoln
Things to do in Lincoln
Discover the best of Lincoln — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lincoln trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of Lincolnshire Life
City museum covering Lincoln’s archaeology, Roman past, and local life. A strong introduction to the city’s long history.
- Recommended
Lincolnshire Museum of Army Life
Interactive military museum and memorial at Lincoln Castle. It explores the county regiment and wartime service with personal stories.
- Must visit
Steep Hill
Steep historic street lined with independent shops and old buildings. Climbing it connects the modern city with Lincoln’s cathedral quarter.
- Recommended
Castle Square
Historic square between cathedral and castle, often animated by visitors and events. Ideal for photographs and exploring the hilltop core.
- Recommended
Brayford Waterfront
Pleasant waterside route along the Witham with boats, cafés, and views. A popular modern leisure area for an easy city walk.
Lincolnshire Sausage
A Lincolnshire specialty sausage seasoned with sage and coarse-cut pork. It is one of the county's best-known traditional foods and a staple in local breakfasts.
Pork Pie
A baked pork pie linked to Lincolnshire butchers, with seasoned pork and hot-water crust pastry. It is a classic cold savoury found in local shops and markets.
- Vegetarian
Lincolnshire Plum Bread
A traditional English plum loaf closely associated with Lincolnshire. This rich fruit bread is lightly spiced and often served sliced with butter.
Ole Ole Tapas Bar & Restaurant
Well-regarded modern British restaurant near the cathedral, serving seasonal dishes in a relaxed, stylish setting popular with locals and visitors.
The Jews House Restaurant
Fine dining restaurant in the Bailgate area known for polished tasting menus, seasonal British produce, and an intimate special-occasion atmosphere.
The Strugglers Inn
Traditional Lincoln pub noted for cask beers and hearty food. It is a dependable stop for local ale and a classic pub atmosphere.
British pound sterling (£)
Lincoln is Moderate for UK city breaks, with mid-range hotels, affordable pubs and cafes, and low local transport costs compared with larger tourist cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Small change is fine in cafes.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Lincoln Central -> Lincoln City Centre
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Single bus fares in England are capped at £2 on many routes; check with Stagecoach East Midlands before boarding.
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Lincoln. Lincoln has no tram or metro network.
FAQs: Trains from Reading to Lincoln
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Lincoln 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 Lincoln, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Reading to Lincoln can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $91, while the average price is around $115.
The train from Reading to Lincoln takes 2h 17m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Reading to Lincoln is 123 miles (199 km).
The first train from Reading to Lincoln leaves at 3:54 AM.
The last train from Reading to Lincoln leaves at 11:00 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Reading to Lincoln.
There is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Lincoln.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Lincoln.
The train station in Reading that goes to Lincoln is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Lincoln Central (LCN).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Lincoln is by bus, with a cost of around $78.
The train journey from Reading to Lincoln offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the English countryside, historic towns, and river landscapes, making parts of the trip quite picturesque.
A day trip from Reading to Lincoln is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 17m. However, there are 5 trains per day covering the 123 miles (199 km) route.
In Lincoln, you can explore the vibrant Brayford Waterfront with its restaurants and bars, take a guided tour of the historic Lincoln Castle with panoramic city views, and visit the Usher Gallery for fine arts. Don't miss the stunning Gothic architecture of Lincoln Cathedral and a walk through the scenic Lincoln Arboretum. Wander through the charming shops and cafes on Steep Hill, and explore The Collection museum for regional archaeology and art.
To fully experience Lincoln, including its historic sites, vibrant culture, and local attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Lincoln.
Since neither Reading nor Lincoln 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 Lincoln include Nottingham, Sheffield, Newark-on-Trent, Sleaford, Derby.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Lincoln 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 Lincoln, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and occasional scams involving overcharging by unofficial taxi services. It's advisable to use licensed transportation and be vigilant in crowded areas, especially near popular attractions, to avoid theft or fraudulent activities.
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 Lincoln
Most Reading to Lincoln trains use the Reading to Lincoln Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Lincoln 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 Lincoln
Which Reading station do trains to Lincoln leave from?
Trains from Reading to Lincoln 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.
Which Lincoln station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Lincoln arrive at Lincoln Central. Lincoln Central is from Lincoln city centre.
Lincoln CentralLincoln station, St Marys Street, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN5 7EW
City-centre transport
Getting to Lincoln Central from Lincoln city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesOutside the front of the station.
Lincoln Central train station facilities and services
Lincoln Central has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Lincoln Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Lincoln Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lincoln Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lincoln Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lincoln Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lincoln Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station. This station has step free access to all platforms. This station doesn't have tactile paving at the edges of the platforms, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: all cabs on station rank are wheelchair accessible, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Fastticket, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Lincoln
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lincoln and Reading
Most popular train connections to Lincoln
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