- Must visit
Northampton Museum and Art Gallery
The town's main museum, celebrated for its shoe collections, local history, and changing exhibitions in a restored central building.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Northampton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€81
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€85
Fastest journey on Sep 19
1 h 54 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
2 h 4 m
Trains on Sep 19
6
Distance
88 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Northampton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Northampton will cost around €85 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €81.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Reading to Northampton without transferring at least once.
C17798+
Tube from London Paddington to London Euston+
W344576:42 AM2h13Reading station (RDG)8:55 AMNorthampton station (NMP)€811One-way2 transfers- Y80821+W34463+Tube from London Paddington to London Euston8:12 AM2h12Reading station (RDG)10:24 AMNorthampton station (NMP)€811One-way2 transfers
- Y80810+W34459+Tube from London Paddington to London Euston7:12 AM2h12Reading station (RDG)9:24 AMNorthampton station (NMP)€811One-way2 transfers
- C17818+W35164+Tube from London Paddington to London Euston7:47 AM2h08Reading station (RDG)9:55 AMNorthampton station (NMP)€811One-way2 transfers
G00850+Y807987:14 AM1h55Reading station (RDG)9:09 AMNorthampton station (NMP)€911One-way1 transfer
- G00848+Y807906:15 AM1h54Reading station (RDG)8:09 AMNorthampton station (NMP)€911One-way1 transfer
- G00850+Y807987:14 AM1h55Reading station (RDG)9:09 AMNorthampton station (NMP)€911One-way1 transfer
- C17818+W35164+Tube from London Paddington to London Euston7:47 AM2h08Reading station (RDG)9:55 AMNorthampton station (NMP)€811One-way2 transfers
- Y80821+W34463+Tube from London Paddington to London Euston8:12 AM2h12Reading station (RDG)10:24 AMNorthampton station (NMP)€811One-way2 transfers
- Y80810+W34459+Tube from London Paddington to London Euston7:12 AM2h12Reading station (RDG)9:24 AMNorthampton station (NMP)€811One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Reading to Northampton
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Reading to Northampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €62 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 11m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €62, while a train costs an average of €79.
Distance: 54 miles (88 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€79 Average price | €62 Average price Cheapest | €22 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 11m Average total duration Fastest 1h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 22m Average total duration 3h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 50m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Northampton is a bus with an average price of €62.
This is compared to other travel options from Reading to Northampton:
A bus is €16 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Reading to Northampton costing on average €79.
The fastest way to travel from Reading to Northampton is by train with an average journey time of 1h 41m.
Other travel options to Northampton take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 52m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Northampton including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Northampton 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 9m sooner (1h 41m by train vs 1h 50m by car). Tickets start at around €79 compared to roughly €22 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 Northampton train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Northampton trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G00848+Y80790 | 6:15 AM Reading station (RDG) | 1h54 | 8:09 AM Northampton station (NMP) | 1 transfer | |
| W34457+C17798+Tube from London Paddington to London Euston | 6:42 AM Reading station (RDG) | 2h13 | 8:55 AM Northampton station (NMP) | 2 transfers | |
| W34459+Y80810+Tube from London Paddington to London Euston | 7:12 AM Reading station (RDG) | 2h12 | 9:24 AM Northampton station (NMP) | 2 transfers | |
| G00850+Y80798 | 7:14 AM Reading station (RDG) | 1h55 | 9:09 AM Northampton station (NMP) | 1 transfer | |
| W35164+C17818+Tube from London Paddington to London Euston | 7:47 AM Reading station (RDG) | 2h08 | 9:55 AM Northampton station (NMP) | 2 transfers | |
| W34463+Y80821+Tube from London Paddington to London Euston | 8:12 AM Reading station (RDG) | 2h12 | 10:24 AM Northampton station (NMP) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Reading to Northampton 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Why should you book Reading to Northampton trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as West Midlands Trains or Cross Country offer trains services from Reading to Northampton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Northampton.
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 West Midlands Trains or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Northampton.
- 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Northampton.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Northampton.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Northampton.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Northampton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Northampton run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €55 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:41. The fastest train covers the 54 miles (88 km) distance in 1h 36m.
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 54 miles (88 km) |
Average train duration 1h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price €55 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 1h 36m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:41 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 28 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
Train companies: West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway from Reading to Northampton trainsWest Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway trains will get you between Reading and Northampton from €55. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
West Midlands Trains
About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average West Midlands Trains Duration
1h 36m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
€55
West Midlands Trains frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
1h 43m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
€57
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
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 49m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
€81
Great Western Railway frequency
1 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
Complete guide to Northampton
Things to do in Northampton
Discover the best of Northampton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Northampton trip today.
- Must visit
78 Derngate
Specialist display areas and interpretation at the historic 78 Derngate house, illuminating Charles Rennie Mackintosh's interior design legacy.
- Recommended
Abington Park Museum
Historic country house museum in extensive parkland. Displays reveal aristocratic life, the Civil War, and the estate's wider landscape.
- Must visit
Delapré Park
Extensive riverside parkland around Delapré Abbey, valued for walking, views, and access to one of the town's most historic estates.
- Must visit
Abington Park
Popular urban park with a lake, birdlife, and family-friendly paths. A pleasant stop for a quieter break from the town centre.
- Recommended
Derngate
Historic shopping street famous for 78 Derngate and fine Victorian architecture. It is ideal for a short heritage walk near the town centre.
- Gluten-free
Northamptonshire Sausage
A spiced cured beef sausage long linked with Northamptonshire. It is a classic local breakfast and sandwich filling with a distinctive peppery flavour.
- Vegetarian
Northamptonshire Pudding
A historic county pudding of suet pastry filled with apples or jam, then boiled or steamed. It is a traditional farmhouse dessert in Northamptonshire.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Northamptonshire Cheese
Crumbly local cheese traditionally made in Northamptonshire. Its mild, creamy taste makes it a regional staple on cheeseboards and in ploughman’s lunches.
Hibiscus
Elegant fine dining restaurant known for modern British tasting menus, polished service and a refined special-occasion atmosphere.
The Tollemache Arms
Popular gastropub serving British classics, steaks and Sunday roasts in a relaxed village-style setting with a strong local reputation.
Miller & Carter Northampton
Well-regarded central venue for dry-aged steaks and grilled dishes, offering a contemporary interior and dependable service.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 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 a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis, and small change is fine in cafes.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.50
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Northampton Railway Station -> Northampton Town Centre
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Most local buses in Northampton accept contactless card payment; ask the driver for the cheapest fare or day ticket.
- Use the Stagecoach Bus app for live bus times, mobile tickets, and service updates in Northampton.
FAQs: Trains from Reading to Northampton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Northampton 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 Northampton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Reading to Northampton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €55, while the average price is around €79.
The train from Reading to Northampton takes 1h 36m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Reading to Northampton is 54 miles (88 km).
The first train from Reading to Northampton leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Reading to Northampton leaves at 11:41 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Reading to Northampton.
There is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Northampton.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Northampton.
The train station in Reading that goes to Northampton is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Northampton station (NMP).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Northampton is by train, with a cost of around €55.
The train journey from Reading to Northampton offers some scenic views, particularly of the English countryside, including rolling hills and patches of greenery, though much of the route is through urban areas and may not be as picturesque as other train routes in the UK.
Yes, a day trip from Reading to Northampton is feasible with a travel duration of 1h 36m and a distance of 54 miles (88 km). There are 6 trains per day for this route.
Two to three days are typically sufficient to explore Northampton's main attractions, including its historical sites, parks, and cultural locations.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Northampton.
Since neither Reading nor Northampton 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 Northampton include London, Birmingham, Rugby, Coventry, Long Buckby.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Northampton 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 Northampton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and market. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to use licensed transportation and keep personal belongings secure. Staying aware of surroundings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night enhances safety.
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 Northampton
Most Reading to Northampton trains use the Reading to Northampton station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Northampton 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 Northampton
Which Reading station do trains to Northampton leave from?
Trains from Reading to Northampton 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 · €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.
Which Northampton station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Northampton arrive at Northampton. Northampton is 1 miles (2 km) from Northampton city centre.
NorthamptonNorthampton station, Black Lion Hill, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1SP+44 3301235247
City-centre transport
Getting to Northampton from Northampton city centre
Northampton is 2 km from Northampton city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus8, 8A · 14m · €2 · every ~8 min
Northampton train station facilities and services
Northampton has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Northampton.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Northampton.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Northampton. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Northampton: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Northampton: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Northampton: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Northampton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Northampton and Reading
Most popular train connections to Northampton
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
