Reading to Luton train with East Midlands Railway

Tue, Jun 16
+ Add return
East Midlands Railway
Thameslink
Elizabeth line
Great Western Railway
Elizabeth Line (TfL)
2,000+ travel companies
East Midlands Railway
Thameslink
Elizabeth line
Great Western Railway
Elizabeth Line (TfL)
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Luton

Showing times and prices for Jun 16

Cheapest price

$59

Average price

$59

Fastest journey

1 h 34 m

Average duration

1 h 42 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

61 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Reading to Luton will cost around $59 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $59.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Reading to Luton without transferring at least once.

  • Elizabeth lineC37788+ThameslinkW32979
    8:45 AM1h55
    Reading station (RDG)
    10:40 AMLuton station (LUT)
    $591One-way
    1 transfer
  • Elizabeth lineC37753+ThameslinkW32940
    8:24 AM1h46
    Reading station (RDG)
    10:10 AMLuton station (LUT)
    $591One-way
    1 transfer
  • TubeTube from London Paddington to Farringdon+ThameslinkW45413+Great Western RailwayG14896
    8:42 AM1h45
    Reading station (RDG)
    10:27 AMLuton station (LUT)
    $591One-way
    2 transfers
  • TubeTube from London Paddington to Farringdon+ThameslinkW45403+Great Western RailwayW34552
    8:10 AM1h47
    Reading station (RDG)
    9:57 AMLuton station (LUT)
    $591One-way
    2 transfers
  • TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+East Midlands RailwayC41873+Great Western RailwayW34553
    8:36 AM1h34
    Reading station (RDG)
    10:10 AMLuton station (LUT)
    $591One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Reading to Luton

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Luton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 22m. 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 train costs an average of $22, and a bus costs an average of $17.

Distance: 37 miles (61 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$48

Average price

Cheapest

$62

Average price

$17

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 52m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 44m

Average total duration

2h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 33m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

East Midlands Railway

Most popular train company

National Express

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 Luton is a train with an average price of $48 (€39).

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

A train is $14 (€11) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Reading to Luton costing on average $62 (€50).

The fastest way to travel from Reading to Luton is by train with an average journey time of 1h 22m.

Other travel options to Luton take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 14m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Luton including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Luton 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 11m sooner (1h 22m by train vs 1h 33m by car). Tickets start at around $48 (€39) compared to roughly $17 (€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.

Live departures

Reading to Luton train times

The table below shows live departures for Reading to Luton trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, June 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western RailwayW34855+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+East Midlands RailwayC418698:02 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h38
9:40 AM Luton station (LUT)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayW34552+ThameslinkW45403+TubeTube from London Paddington to Farringdon8:10 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h47
9:57 AM Luton station (LUT)2 transfers
Elizabeth lineC37753+ThameslinkW329408:24 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h46
10:10 AM Luton station (LUT)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW34553+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+East Midlands RailwayC418738:36 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h34
10:10 AM Luton station (LUT)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayG14896+ThameslinkW45413+TubeTube from London Paddington to Farringdon8:42 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h45
10:27 AM Luton station (LUT)2 transfers
Elizabeth lineC37788+ThameslinkW329798:45 AM Reading station (RDG)
1h55
10:40 AM Luton station (LUT)1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Reading to Luton 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.

Tue
Jun 16
Wed
Jun 17
Thu
Jun 18
Fri
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22

Why should you book Reading to Luton trains with Omio?

East Midlands Railway as well as Thameslink, Elizabeth line, Great Western Railway, Elizabeth Line (TfL) and more offer trains services from Reading to Luton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Luton.

Why book with Omio vs East Midlands Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for East Midlands Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink, Elizabeth line, Great Western Railway or Elizabeth Line (TfL) to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Luton.
  • 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 East Midlands Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Luton.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink, Elizabeth line, Great Western Railway or Elizabeth Line (TfL) to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Luton.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Luton.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Reading to Luton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Reading to Luton run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 37 miles (61 km) distance in 1h 35m.

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 $17 (€14)
Distance
37 miles (61 km)
Average train duration
1h 22m
Cheapest ticket price
$22 (€18)
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
1h 35m
First train
12:05 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
14 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 $17 (€14)

Train companies: East Midlands Railway, Thameslink, Elizabeth line, Great Western Railway, Elizabeth Line (TfL), Great Western Railway (GWR) from Reading to Luton trainsEast Midlands Railway, Thameslink, Elizabeth line, Great Western Railway, Elizabeth Line (TfL), Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Reading and Luton from $17 (€14). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
1h 35m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
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

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 36m
Cheapest Price
$33 (€27)
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

Thameslink

About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 45m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Elizabeth line

About
Tfl Rail is a railway service operated by Transport for London in the United Kingdom. It operates on the Great Western Main Line and the Heathrow branch of the London Underground. The service runs from Paddington in London to Reading, Maidenhead, Slough, and Heathrow Airport. It also serves the towns of Taplow, Burnham, Twyford, and Hayes & Harlington. All trains are air-conditioned and feature onboard Wi-Fi, power sockets, and digital information screens. Tfl Rail offers a range of ticket types, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and Oyster cards. Oyster cards are the most popular ticket type, allowing passengers to pay for their journey with a single card. The most popular routes for Tfl Rail are Paddington to Reading, Paddington to Maidenhead, and Paddington to Heathrow Airport. These routes offer frequent services and provide passengers with a convenient way to travel between London and the surrounding areas.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 46m
Cheapest Price
$33 (€27)
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 42m
Cheapest Price
$93 (€75)
Elizabeth Line (TfL) frequency
2 a day

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 16m
Cheapest Price
$90 (€73)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
48 a day

Complete guide to Luton

Things to do in Luton

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

  • Must visit

Wardown House, Museum and Gallery

Victorian mansion museum in Wardown Park with local history, decorative arts, hat-making collections, and rotating exhibitions. It is Luton’s main museum and the best place to understand the town’s文化,

  • Must visit

Stockwood Discovery Centre

Museum complex focused on Bedfordshire history, rural life, archaeology, and the Mossman carriage collection, set beside landscaped gardens. Strong local favorite for families and heritage enthusiasts

  • Recommended

The Hat Factory Arts Centre Gallery

Contemporary arts venue in central Luton with gallery exhibitions, performances, and creative programming. Worth visiting for a modern cultural counterpoint to the town’s heritage museums.

Pound Sterling

Moderate by UK standards. Chain cafes and pubs are reasonable, while hotels and airport-area dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-12 for takeaway or fast food.
Mid-range
GBP 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 50+ per person at upscale venues.
Coffee
GBP 3-4 for a regular coffee.

Tipping culture

About 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not included. Round up for taxis. No tip needed for pubs, cafes, or counter service.

FAQs: Trains from Reading to Luton

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Reading to Luton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $22 (€18), while the average price is around $48 (€39).
The train from Reading to Luton takes 1h 35m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Reading to Luton is 37 miles (61 km).
The first train from Reading to Luton leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Reading to Luton leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Reading to Luton.
There is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Luton.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Luton.
The train station in Reading that goes to Luton is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Luton station (LUT).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Luton is by bus, with a cost of around $17 (€14).
The train journey from Reading to Luton offers a mix of urban and countryside views, with sections passing through the scenic Chiltern Hills, providing a pleasant and visually engaging experience.
Yes, a day trip from Reading to Luton is feasible. The journey takes 1h 35m, and trains run 7 times per day. The distance is 37 miles (61 km).
In Luton, visitors can explore The Mall Luton for shopping and dining, enjoy family-friendly activities at Woodside Animal Farm, and shop for fresh produce and crafts at Luton Indoor Market. For outdoor activities, Stockwood Park offers a space for picnics and sports. For entertainment, The Galaxy provides a cinema and bowling alley. Key sights include the Stockwood Discovery Centre with its local history exhibits and gardens, Wardown House Museum and Gallery, Luton Hoo Estate with its gardens and golf course, Whipsnade Zoo, and The Hat Factory Arts Centre, which hosts performances and art exhibitions.
Visitors typically find that spending one to two days in Luton is sufficient to explore its main attractions, such as the Stockwood Discovery Centre, Wardown House, and the charming local parks.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Luton.
Since neither Reading nor Luton 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 Luton include London, Bedford, St Albans, Wellingborough, Harpenden.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Luton 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 Luton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as Luton Airport and the town center. Taxi scams can occur, so using licensed cabs or pre-booked transportation is advised. Be wary of unofficial currency exchange services offering poor rates or counterfeit notes. Staying vigilant in busy spots and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Luton

Reading
Luton
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 Luton.
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
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 10:45 Saturday - Sunday Closed
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Reading West
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Towards Reading: Bus Stop on Oxford Road under Railway Bridge. Heading away from Reading Bus Stop on Oxford Road, outside McDonalds.
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km

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