- Must visit
Wardown House, Museum and Gallery
Luton's main museum in a Victorian mansion, covering local history, hats, lace, and changing exhibitions in a well-kept park setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Luton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 29
Cheapest price on Oct 29
$33
Average ticket price on Oct 29
$53
Fastest journey on Oct 29
1 h 39 m
Average journey duration on Oct 29
1 h 44 m
Trains on Oct 29
7
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 $53 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $33.
Fast trains
On Thu, Oct 29, we found 7 trains from Reading to Luton, including 7 direct services.
On Thu, Oct 29 the direct trains cover the 61 km distance in an average of 1 h 44 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 39 m .
On Thu, Oct 29 the slowest trains will take 1 h 47 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.
12:05 AM 2h28 Reading 2:33 AM Luton $33 1 One-way 0 transfers
7:24 AM 1h46 Reading 9:10 AM Luton $55 1 One-way 0 transfers8:10 AM 1h47 Reading 9:57 AM Luton $56 1 One-way 0 transfers6:24 AM 1h46 Reading 8:10 AM Luton $56 1 One-way 0 transfers
7:07 AM 1h42 Reading 8:49 AM Luton $57 1 One-way 0 transfers
4:35 PM 1h39 Reading 6:14 PM Luton $57 1 One-way 0 transfers7:07 AM 1h42 Reading 8:49 AM Luton $57 1 One-way 0 transfers6:24 AM 1h46 Reading 8:10 AM Luton $56 1 One-way 0 transfers7:24 AM 1h46 Reading 9:10 AM Luton $55 1 One-way 0 transfers8:10 AM 1h47 Reading 9:57 AM Luton $56 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Luton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Luton run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $32 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 37 miles (61 km) distance in 1h 3m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 37 miles (61 km) |
Average train duration 1h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $32 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 1h 3m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Reading to Luton trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Reading to Luton.
Train ticket prices from Reading to Luton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $32, while the average price is around $46.
The train from Reading to Luton takes 1h 3m 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.
There is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Luton.
Live departures
Reading to Luton train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Luton trains for tomorrow, Thursday, October 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:05 AM Reading | 2h28 | 2:33 AM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:24 AM Reading | 1h46 | 8:10 AM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:07 AM Reading | 1h42 | 8:49 AM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:10 AM Reading | 1h47 | 8:57 AM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:24 AM Reading | 1h46 | 9:10 AM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:10 AM Reading | 1h47 | 9:57 AM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:35 PM Reading | 1h39 | 6:14 PM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Reading to Luton trains with Omio?
Thameslink as well as East Midlands Railway, Elizabeth line, Great Western Railway 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 Thameslink?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Thameslink, but also compare tickets for the likes of East Midlands Railway, Elizabeth line or Great Western Railway 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 Thameslink 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 East Midlands Railway, Elizabeth line or Great Western Railway 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.
Train companies: Thameslink, Elizabeth line, East Midlands Railway, Great Western Railway from Reading to Luton trainsThameslink, Elizabeth line, East Midlands Railway, Great Western Railway trains will get you between Reading and Luton from $32. 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 East Midlands Railway Duration
1h 3m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
$32
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
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 Great Western Railway Duration
1h 5m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$32
Great Western Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
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 Thameslink Duration
1h 8m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
$32
Thameslink frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Elizabeth line
About
Tfl Rail is a railway service operated by Transport for London in the United Kingdom. It operates on the Great Western Main Line and the Heathrow branch of the London Underground. The service runs from Paddington in London to Reading, Maidenhead, Slough, and Heathrow Airport. It also serves the towns of Taplow, Burnham, Twyford, and Hayes & Harlington. All trains are air-conditioned and feature onboard Wi-Fi, power sockets, and digital information screens. Tfl Rail offers a range of ticket types, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and Oyster cards. Oyster cards are the most popular ticket type, allowing passengers to pay for their journey with a single card. The most popular routes for Tfl Rail are Paddington to Reading, Paddington to Maidenhead, and Paddington to Heathrow Airport. These routes offer frequent services and provide passengers with a convenient way to travel between London and the surrounding areas.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Elizabeth line Duration
1h 37m
Cheapest Elizabeth line Price
$32
Elizabeth line frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available through TfL website or customer service
Refund
Full refund available for service cancellations
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
No dedicated dining car. Passengers can bring their own food and drinks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Step-free access at most stations, wheelchair spaces on trains, priority seating
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be leashed. Guide dogs welcome
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Reading and Luton
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Reading to Luton.
Yes, there is a night train from Reading to Luton.
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.
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
Stockwood Discovery Centre
Museum complex with rural life displays, carriages, gardens, and archaeology, making it one of Luton's strongest family-friendly heritage sites.
- Recommended
The Hat Factory at Stockwood Discovery Centre
Working hat factory museum explaining Luton's famous hat-making trade through machinery, displays, and guided tours in an authentic setting.
- Must visit
Wardown Park
Large formal park with lakes, bridges, museum, and broad lawns, ideal for relaxing walks and one of Luton's best-loved green spaces.
- Recommended
Market Hill
Historic town centre square beside St Mary's Church, valued for events, heritage surroundings, and an authentic sense of old Luton.
- Recommended
Stockwood Park
Extensive parkland with gardens, play areas, and museum access, popular for family walks and exploring Luton's former estate landscape.
Bedfordshire Clanger
A Bedfordshire pastry with chopped meat, suet, onions and seasoning. It is closely tied to the county around Luton and is a classic local comfort food.
- Vegetarian
Chocolate Tooth Pudding
A suet dumpling stuffed with currants or jam. Long associated with Bedfordshire home cooking, it is a traditional local pudding served warm.
- Vegetarian
Bedfordshire Fruit Cake
A rich fruit cake packed with dried fruit and spices. It is a historic Bedfordshire bake often made for family gatherings and festive occasions.
Meah Restaurant
Established Turkish restaurant known for grilled meats, meze and generous portions. Casual atmosphere and dependable local favourite.
Monna Lisa
Well-known Indian restaurant with polished service and a long-standing reputation. Popular for classic curries in a smart but relaxed setting.
The Luton Dosa
Popular South Indian venue serving dosas, idli and vegetarian dishes. Simple setting, strong reputation and reliable regional flavours.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels near the airport can be pricey, but dining and local transit are usually cheaper than central London.
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
- £2.80-4 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Service may be included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional.
Arriva UK Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.40
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Luton Airport Parkway -> Luton Station Interchange
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Arriva buses in Luton. Check fare caps in the operator app before you travel.
- For rail connections, use the DART between Luton Airport Parkway and London Luton Airport. Buy rail and DART tickets from official operators where possible.
Plan your visit to Luton
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Luton.
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.
Popular day trips by train from Luton include London, Bedford, St Albans, Wellingborough, Harpenden.
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Luton.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Reading to Luton
Most Reading to Luton trains use the Reading to Luton station pair, with some services arriving at Luton Airport Parkway. Use this guide to compare Reading and Luton 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 Luton
Which Reading station do trains to Luton leave from?
Trains from Reading to Luton 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 · $3 · 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 · $3 · every ~4 min
Bus9 · 39m · $3 · 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 Luton station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Luton most often arrive at Luton. Some services arrive at Luton Airport Parkway, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Luton arrival station.
LutonLuton station, Station Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2LT
City-centre transport
Getting to Luton from Luton city centre
Bus17 · 7m · $3 · every ~2 min
Luton train station facilities and services
Luton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Luton.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Luton. ATMs are available at Luton.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Luton.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Luton: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Luton: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luton: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category B3 station: Step free access via lift to platform 5 only (some trains to Bedford/ the East Midlands) only. Steps to all other platforms. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office. This station doesn't have tactile surfaces along all platform edges. Please pay attention to where the platform surface changes from smooth to paved or contact us for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Luton Airport ParkwayLuton Airport Parkway station, Parkway Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3JW
City-centre transport
Getting to Luton Airport Parkway from Luton city centre
Luton Airport Parkway is 1 km from Luton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCorby - London St Pancras International, Sheffield - London St Pancras International, Nottingham - London St Pancras International, Kettering - London St Pancras International, Wellingborough - London St Pancras International, East Midlands Parkway - London St Pancras International · 2m · $2 · every ~4 min
BusX4, X1, X2, Z, A, X3 · 5m · $5 · every ~41 min
612, X10 · 5m · $2 · every ~2 min
44, 45, 366 · 6m · $3 · every ~2 min
101, 100 · 10m · $5 · every ~7 min
Luton Airport Parkway train station facilities and services
Luton Airport Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Luton Airport Parkway.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Luton Airport Parkway. ATMs are available at Luton Airport Parkway.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Luton Airport Parkway.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Luton Airport Parkway: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Luton Airport Parkway: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luton Airport Parkway: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms via lifts. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Luton DART ParkwayLuton LU2 0HB, UK
Luton DART Parkway train station facilities and services
Luton DART Parkway has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luton DART Parkway: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Train stations for Reading to Luton
Check train stations information for Reading and Luton, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Reading that goes to Luton is Reading, which connects to Luton.
More options for your journey from Reading to Luton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Luton and Reading
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