Reading to Manchester train with CrossCountry

Wed, Aug 26
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Manchester

Showing times and prices for Aug 26

Cheapest price

zł65

Average price

zł268

Fastest journey

3 h 8 m

Average duration

3 h 22 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

241 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Reading to Manchester will cost around zł268 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only zł65.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Reading for Manchester on Wed, Aug 26, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Aug 26 the direct trains cover the 241 km distance in an average of 3 h 22 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 8 m .

On Wed, Aug 26 the slowest trains will take 4 h 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
    9:15 AM3h14
    Reading
    12:29 PMManchester
    651One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    7:15 AM3h14
    Reading
    10:29 AMManchester
    1301One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    8:15 AM3h14
    Reading
    11:29 AMManchester
    1331One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    8:51 AM3h08
    Reading
    11:59 AMManchester
    3121One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    6:15 AM4h00
    Reading
    10:15 AMManchester
    6981One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Reading to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from zł112. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 3m. 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 train costs an average of zł112, and a flight costs an average of zł275.

Distance: 149 miles (241 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

zł189

Average price

Cheapest

zł252

Average price

zł454

Average price

zł309

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 35m

Average total duration

3h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 5m

Average total duration

5h 35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 3m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 3m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

4h 30m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

0.7 - 1.4kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

Megabus

Most popular bus company

British Airways

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

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 Manchester is a train with an average price of zł189.

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

A train is zł62 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Reading to Manchester costing on average zł252.

A train is zł264 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Reading to Manchester costing on average zł454.

The fastest way to travel from Reading to Manchester is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 3m.

Other travel options to Manchester take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 5m.

Bus takes on average 5h 35m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Reading and Manchester including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Manchester among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 1h 25m faster (3h 5m by train vs 4h 30m by car) and roughly zł120 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (zł189 vs zł309). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Direct services run with CrossCountry, Cross Country.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Reading to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Reading to Manchester trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountry6:15 AM Reading
4h00
10:15 AM Manchester0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry7:15 AM Reading
3h14
10:29 AM Manchester0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry8:15 AM Reading
3h14
11:29 AM Manchester0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry8:51 AM Reading
3h08
11:59 AM Manchester0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Reading to Manchester by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight 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.

Wed
Aug 26
Thu
Aug 27
Fri
Aug 28
Sat
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01

Why should you book Reading to Manchester trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast or Cross Country offer trains services from Reading to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Manchester.

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 Avanti West Coast or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Manchester.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

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

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Reading to Manchester?

The best time to book your train from Reading to Manchester is 21 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Reading to Manchester route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Reading to Manchester per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Reading to Manchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Reading to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Reading to Manchester run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at zł112 but you can travel from only zł77 by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 149 miles (241 km) distance in 3h 14m.

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 zł77
Distance
149 miles (241 km)
Average train duration
3h 5m
Cheapest ticket price
zł112
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
3h 14m
First train
12:06 AM
Last train
11:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
21 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 zł77

Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Cross Country from Reading to Manchester trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Cross Country trains will get you between Reading and Manchester from zł77. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 14m
Cheapest Price
zł112
CrossCountry frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

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 55m
Cheapest Price
zł1268
Avanti West Coast frequency
5 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
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 8m
Cheapest Price
zł1000
Cross Country frequency
16 a day

Complete guide to Manchester

Things to do in Manchester

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

  • Must visit

Science and Industry Museum

Leading museum of science, industry, transport, and computing on a historic railway site. Essential for understanding Manchester's global impact.

  • Must visit

Manchester Art Gallery

Major art museum with Pre-Raphaelite works, design, and changing exhibitions. A central cultural stop with broad appeal.

  • Must visit

Manchester Museum

The University of Manchester museum spans dinosaurs, Egypt, nature, and anthropology. Recently renewed and excellent for varied interests.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost less than London, while dining and transit are manageable for tourists with many mid-range options.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or casual eats.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included. If not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common for good service. Round up or add a little for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.

FAQs: Trains from Reading to Manchester

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Reading to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at zł112, while the average price is around zł189.
The train from Reading to Manchester takes 3h 14m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Reading to Manchester leaves at 12:06 AM.
The distance by train from Reading to Manchester is 149 miles (241 km).
The last train from Reading to Manchester leaves at 11:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Reading to Manchester.
Yes, there is a direct train from Reading to Manchester. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Manchester.
The train station in Reading that goes to Manchester is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Manchester is by bus, with a cost of around zł77.
The train journey from Reading to Manchester offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, taking passengers through the picturesque countryside of the Chiltern Hills and alongside the Peak District, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Reading to Manchester is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 14m and the distance is 149 miles (241 km). Trains run 6 times per day.
In Manchester, you can explore Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United, with its tours and museum. Discover the Northern Quarter, known for its independent shops and street art, or enjoy a captivating performance at the Manchester Opera House. For nightlife, check out Deansgate Locks' bars and clubs. Spend a relaxing day at Heaton Park, one of Europe's largest municipal parks. Visit the Manchester Art Gallery, Science and Industry Museum, and see the stunning architecture of Manchester Cathedral. The John Rylands Library offers a look at rare manuscripts, while Castlefield invites leisurely strolls through its historic ruins and canals.
To fully experience Manchester, including its cultural landmarks, museums, and vibrant nightlife, spending 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Manchester.
Since neither Reading nor Manchester 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 Manchester include Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Newton-le-Willows, Chester.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Manchester 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 Manchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Staying aware of surroundings, particularly at night, helps reduce safety risks.
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 Manchester

Most Reading to Manchester trains use the Reading to Manchester Piccadilly station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester Airport. Use this guide to compare Reading and Manchester 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 Manchester

Which Reading station do trains to Manchester leave from?

Trains from Reading to Manchester 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 3451652030ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Reading from Reading city centre

Bus26, 90, 87 · 2m · zł9 · 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, UKAccessibility
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 · zł9 · every ~4 min
Bus9 · 39m · zł9 · 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.

Reading WestReading West station, Oxford Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 7PYParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Reading West from Reading city centre

Reading West is 1 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainReading - Basingstoke, Reading - Newbury, Reading - Bedwyn, London Paddington - Bedwyn · 2m · zł5 · every ~6 min
Bus15, 15a, 16, 17, 91, 85, 88, 93, 43 · 4m · zł9 · every ~49 min

Reading West train station facilities and services

Reading West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Reading West.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Reading West.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Reading West: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Reading West: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Reading West: 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.

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