Reading to Manchester train with Avanti West Coast

Sat, Oct 10
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
London North Eastern Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
London North Eastern Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Manchester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 10

Cheapest price on Oct 10

$31

Average ticket price on Oct 10

$81

Fastest journey on Oct 10

3 h 14 m

Average journey duration on Oct 10

3 h 47 m

Trains on Oct 10

3

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 $81 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $31.

Fast trains

On Sat, Oct 10, we found 3 trains from Reading to Manchester, including 1 direct services.

On Sat, Oct 10 the direct trains cover the 241 km distance in an average of 3 h 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 14 m .

On Sat, Oct 10 the slowest trains will take 4 h 53 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.

  • CrossCountryG00852
    8:15 AM3h14
    Reading station (RDG)
    11:29 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $311One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG00740 · G00853
    8:45 AM3h14
    Reading station (RDG)
    11:59 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $761One-way
    1 transfer
  • Great Western RailwayC47865+Avanti West CoastW33564+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston
    9:12 AM4h53
    Reading station (RDG)
    2:05 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $1371One-way
    2 transfers

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 8 times per day, taking around 2h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $30 if you book in advance.

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 2h 42m.

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
149 miles (241 km)
Average train duration
2h 59m
Cheapest ticket price
$30
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
2h 42m
First train
12:06 AM
Last train
11:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Tue
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

Live departures

Reading to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Reading to Manchester trains for today, Friday, October 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountryG00706 · G0086511:45 AM Reading station (RDG)
3h14
2:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
CrossCountryG00866
On time
12:15 PM Reading station (RDG)
3h14
3:29 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG00710 · G00872
On time
12:44 PM Reading station (RDG)
3h15
3:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15045+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW34053
On time
12:47 PM Reading station (RDG)
3h18
4:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
Great Western RailwayW34566+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW34280
On time
1:05 PM Reading station (RDG)
3h14
4:19 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00875
On time
1:15 PM Reading station (RDG)
3h14
4:29 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW35182+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW33926
On time
1:20 PM Reading station (RDG)
3h24
4:44 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
Great Western RailwayW34490+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW34157
On time
1:42 PM Reading station (RDG)
3h23
5:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
Great Western RailwayW34572+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW33951
On time
2:04 PM Reading station (RDG)
3h19
5:23 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00879
On time
2:15 PM Reading station (RDG)
3h14
5:29 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW35133+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW33963
On time
2:21 PM Reading station (RDG)
3h23
5:44 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00716 · G00883
On time
2:45 PM Reading station (RDG)
3h14
5:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW34577+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW34203
On time
3:05 PM Reading station (RDG)
3h14
6:19 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
Saturday, October 10
CrossCountryG008528:15 AM Reading station (RDG)
3h14
11:29 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG00740 · G008538:45 AM Reading station (RDG)
3h14
11:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
Avanti West CoastW33564+Great Western RailwayC47865+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston9:12 AM Reading station (RDG)
4h53
2:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Reading to Manchester trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast or London North Eastern Railway 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 London North Eastern Railway 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 London North Eastern Railway 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.

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway from Reading to Manchester trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway trains will get you between Reading and Manchester from $30. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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 Avanti West Coast Duration
2h 42m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$78
Avanti West Coast frequency
4 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

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
2h 43m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$30
CrossCountry frequency
2 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

London North Eastern Railway

About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
3h 41m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
$132
London North Eastern Railway frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone

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 $30, while the average price is around $137.
The train from Reading to Manchester takes 2h 42m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Reading to Manchester is 149 miles (241 km).
The first train from Reading to Manchester leaves at 12:06 AM.
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.
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 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Manchester.
Popular day trips by train from Manchester include Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Newton-le-Willows, Chester.
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. 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 · $2 · every ~15 min

Reading train station facilities and services

Reading has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Reading.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Reading.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Reading.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Reading: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Reading: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Reading: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: platforms can be reached via lift and bridge, ticket office is step free, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Accessible low-level Pay Phone is available at the station main concourse. Please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxi are available at the station entrance. please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office and at the car park, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

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 · $1 · every ~6 min
Bus15, 15a, 16, 17, 91, 85, 88, 93, 43 · 4m · $2 · 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.

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 · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus9 · 39m · $2 · 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.

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