Reading to Liverpool train with West Midlands Trains

Fri, Jun 12
+ Add return
West Midlands Trains
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Cross Country
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
West Midlands Trains
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Cross Country
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Liverpool

Showing times and prices for Jun 12

Cheapest price

$32

Average price

$95

Fastest journey

3 h 25 m

Average duration

3 h 27 m

Trains per day

8

Distance

256 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Liverpool is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Reading to Liverpool will cost around $95 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $32.

Fast trains

Of the 8 trains that leave Reading for Liverpool on Fri, Jun 12, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jun 12 the direct trains cover the 256 km distance in an average of 3 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 25 m .

On Fri, Jun 12 the slowest trains will take 3 h 27 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.

  • CrossCountry
    7:15 AM3h27
    Reading
    10:42 AMLiverpool
    $321One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    8:15 AM3h27
    Reading
    11:42 AMLiverpool
    $601One-way
    0 transfers
  • West Midlands Trains
    10:45 AM3h32
    Reading
    2:17 PMLiverpool
    $681One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    5:15 AM3h27
    Reading
    8:42 AMLiverpool
    $911One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    6:15 AM3h27
    Reading
    9:42 AMLiverpool
    $921One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Reading to Liverpool

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Liverpool among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 15m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $24, and a train costs an average of $32.

Distance: 159 miles (256 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$111

Average price

$87

Average price

Cheapest

$70

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 45m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 15m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 11m

Average total duration

6h 41m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 1m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

West Midlands Trains

Most popular train company

Megabus

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 Liverpool is a bus with an average price of $87 (€71).

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

A bus is $24 (€20) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Reading to Liverpool costing on average $111 (€90).

The fastest way to travel from Reading to Liverpool is by train with an average journey time of 3h 15m.

Other travel options to Liverpool take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 41m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Liverpool including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Liverpool 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 46m sooner (3h 15m by train vs 4h 1m by car). Tickets start at around $111 (€90) compared to roughly $70 (€57) 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 Liverpool train times

The table below shows live departures for Reading to Liverpool trains for tomorrow, Friday, June 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountry5:15 AM Reading
3h27
8:42 AM Liverpool0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry6:15 AM Reading
3h27
9:42 AM Liverpool0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry7:15 AM Reading
3h27
10:42 AM Liverpool0 transfersDirect
Avanti West Coast7:58 AM Reading
3h25
11:23 AM Liverpool0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry8:15 AM Reading
3h27
11:42 AM Liverpool0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Reading to Liverpool by train or bus

Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Fri
Jun 12
Sat
Jun 13
Sun
Jun 14
Mon
Jun 15
Tue
Jun 16
Wed
Jun 17
Thu
Jun 18

Why should you book Reading to Liverpool trains with Omio?

West Midlands Trains as well as CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Cross Country and more offer trains services from Reading to Liverpool.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Liverpool.

Why book with Omio vs West Midlands Trains?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for West Midlands Trains, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Liverpool.
  • 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 West Midlands Trains with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Liverpool.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Liverpool.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Liverpool.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Reading to Liverpool

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Reading to Liverpool run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $32 (€26) but you can travel from only $24 (€19) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 01:35, the last at 20:58. The fastest train covers the 159 miles (256 km) distance in 3h 23m.

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 $24 (€19)
Distance
159 miles (256 km)
Average train duration
3h 15m
Cheapest ticket price
$32 (€26)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 23m
First train
1:35 AM
Last train
8:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
49 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 $24 (€19)

Train companies: West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Cross Country from Reading to Liverpool trainsWest Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Cross Country trains will get you between Reading and Liverpool from $24 (€19). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 26m
Cheapest Price
$59 (€48)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
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 Duration
3h 27m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€26)
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

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 23m
Cheapest Price
$82 (€67)
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
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 26m
Cheapest Price
$299 (€243)
Cross Country frequency
16 a day

Complete guide to Liverpool

Things to do in Liverpool

Discover the best of Liverpool — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Liverpool trip today.

  • Must visit

Museum of Liverpool

Major social history museum on the waterfront covering the city’s people, culture, sport and global significance.

  • Must visit

The Beatles Story

Popular immersive exhibition about The Beatles, with memorabilia and multimedia displays at the Royal Albert Dock.

  • Must visit

Tate Liverpool

Leading gallery for modern and contemporary art, known for major exhibitions and waterfront setting.

Pound sterling

Moderate by UK standards: pubs and casual eats are reasonable, while central hotels and upscale dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 18-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

About 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not already included. Round up for taxis. Not expected for pubs or counter service, but appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Reading to Liverpool

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Liverpool 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 Liverpool, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Reading to Liverpool can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $32 (€26), while the average price is around $111 (€90).
The train from Reading to Liverpool takes 3h 23m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Reading to Liverpool is 159 miles (256 km).
The first train from Reading to Liverpool leaves at 1:35 AM.
The last train from Reading to Liverpool leaves at 8:58 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Reading to Liverpool.
There is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Liverpool.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Liverpool.
The train station in Reading that goes to Liverpool is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Liverpool Lime Street (LIV).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Liverpool is by bus, with a cost of around $24 (€19).
The train journey from Reading to Liverpool offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Thames Valley, the Cotswolds' rolling hills, and the industrial landscapes of the North West.
A day trip from Reading to Liverpool is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 23m. However, there are 6 train trips available per day covering a distance of 159 miles (256 km).
In Liverpool, explore the vibrant Baltic Triangle for street art, bars, and music venues, and take a ferry across the Mersey River for scenic views. Visit the Walker Art Gallery and enjoy performances at the Liverpool Empire Theatre. Discover the city's history at the Museum of Liverpool. Don't miss The Beatles Story, Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool Cathedral, Anfield Stadium, and St George's Hall for iconic sights and experiences.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Liverpool is ideal to explore its key attractions such as The Beatles Story, the Royal Albert Dock, and the Liverpool Cathedral, while also allowing time to enjoy the local culture and dining.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Liverpool.
Since neither Reading nor Liverpool 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 Liverpool include Manchester, Birmingham, Chester, Leeds, Warrington.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Liverpool 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 Liverpool, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and around popular attractions such as the Albert Dock and Liverpool ONE shopping center. Scams involving overcharging in taxis can occur, so it's advisable to use licensed cabs or pre-book rides. Additionally, travelers should be aware of nightlife-related safety, avoiding unlicensed venues and staying in well-lit, populated areas at night.
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 Liverpool

Reading
Liverpool
The major train station for departures in Reading is Reading. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Reading for your trip from Reading to Liverpool.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:15 - 22:45 Saturday 05:30 - 22:45 Sunday 07:15 - 22:45 Please note: Reservations and tickets requiring reservations are sold at the following times only: Mon - Sat 08:00 - 20:00 and Sun 09:00 - 20:00
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Multi Storey Car Park
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: platforms can be reached via lift and bridge, ticket office is step free.
  • Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
  • Accessible public telephones: Accessible low-level Pay Phone is available at the station main concourse. Please request staff assistance if you need to.
  • Accessible taxis: Accessible taxi are available at the station entrance. please request staff assistance if you need to.
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office and at the car park.
  • Accessible toilets: Yes
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: Yes
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Toilets are located on Station Platforms and in The Brunel Arcade building
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Front of station, underground short stay car park and long stay car park.
  • Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Reading
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the North side of the station
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:25 - 12:55 Saturday 07:00 - 13:30 Sunday Closed
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
4 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Platforms 2/3
  • National key toilets: No
  • Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Adjacent entrance to station
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Tilehurst
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses starting/terminate at Tilehurst: Station forecourt All other buses: A329 Oxford Road bus stops near the station

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