- Must visit
Penlee House Gallery & Museum
Leading gallery for Newlyn School and west Cornwall art. Essential for regional painting, changing exhibitions, and excellent views over Newlyn harbour.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Penzance
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 12
Cheapest price on Sep 12
$88
Average ticket price on Sep 12
$100
Fastest journey on Sep 12
4 h 42 m
Average journey duration on Sep 12
5 h 6 m
Trains on Sep 12
4
Distance
354 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Penzance is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Penzance will cost around $100 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $88.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 12, we found 4 trains from Reading to Penzance, including 4 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 12 the direct trains cover the 354 km distance in an average of 5 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 42 m .
On Sat, Sep 12 the slowest trains will take 5 h 44 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.
4:01 PM5h15Reading9:16 PMPenzance$881One-way0 transfers- 12:30 PM4h42Reading5:12 PMPenzance$1031One-way0 transfers
- 1:30 PM4h42Reading6:12 PMPenzance$1031One-way0 transfers
- 11:00 AM5h44Reading4:44 PMPenzance$1081One-way0 transfers
- 1:30 PM4h42Reading6:12 PMPenzance$1031One-way0 transfers
- 12:30 PM4h42Reading5:12 PMPenzance$1031One-way0 transfers
- 4:01 PM5h15Reading9:16 PMPenzance$881One-way0 transfers
- 11:00 AM5h44Reading4:44 PMPenzance$1081One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Reading to Penzance
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Penzance among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $116 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 49m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $116, while a flight costs an average of $410.
Distance: 219 miles (354 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$121 Average price | $410 Average price | $116 Average price Cheapest | $91 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 14m Average total duration 4h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 49m Average total duration Fastest 1h 49m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 11h 1m Average total duration 10h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 38m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | 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 Penzance is a bus with an average price of $116.
This is compared to other travel options from Reading to Penzance:
A bus is $5 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Reading to Penzance costing on average $121.
A bus is $294 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Reading to Penzance costing on average $410.
The fastest way to travel from Reading to Penzance is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 49m.
Other travel options to Penzance take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 44m.
Bus takes on average 10h 31m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Reading and Penzance including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Penzance among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $121 compared to roughly $91 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-30.65. The journey takes 4h 44m versus 4h 38m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Reading to Penzance train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Penzance trains for today, Friday, September 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:08 PM Reading | 5h16 | 9:24 PM Penzance | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Reading to Penzance 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.
Sat
Sep 12
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Why should you book Reading to Penzance trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Reading to Penzance.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Penzance.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Penzance.
- 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Penzance.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Penzance.
- 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 Penzance.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Penzance
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Penzance run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $101 but you can travel from only $100 by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:48, the last at 21:45. The fastest train covers the 219 miles (354 km) distance in 4h 34m.
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 $100
Distance 219 miles (354 km) |
Average train duration 4h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $101 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 4h 34m |
First train 12:48 AM |
Last train 9:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $100
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry from Reading to Penzance trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Reading and Penzance from $100. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
4h 34m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$101
Great Western Railway frequency
6 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
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
4h 58m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$111
CrossCountry frequency
1 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
Complete guide to Penzance
Things to do in Penzance
Discover the best of Penzance — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Penzance trip today.
- Recommended
The Exchange, Newlyn
Community arts center in nearby Newlyn hosting contemporary exhibitions, workshops, and creative projects. Good for current local artistic activity.
- Recommended
Newlyn Art Gallery
Contemporary gallery with changing shows in Newlyn. Worth a visit for modern Cornish art and a strong link to the town’s continuing artistic scene.
- Must visit
Chapel Street
Historic street lined with Georgian and Regency buildings, galleries, and old inns. One of the best walks for character and architectural atmosphere.
- Must visit
Penzance Promenade
Long seafront promenade ideal for coastal walks, sunsets, and views across Mount's Bay. A practical and scenic introduction to Penzance.
- Recommended
Morrab Gardens
Large public garden with subtropical planting, bandstand, and sea views. A classic promenade spot for relaxed walking near the town center.
- Vegetarian
Cornish Saffron Bun
A saffron-enriched yeasted bun from Cornwall, often studded with currants. It is a classic regional bake tied to local mining and fishing communities.
Cornish Pasty
A hearty pastry filled with beef, potato, swede, and onion. Cornwall's most famous portable meal, long linked to miners and now protected by PGI status.
- Gluten-free
Cornish Pilchards
Pilchards, usually sardines, cured or grilled and closely associated with West Cornwall fishing. They reflect Penzance's long maritime food culture.
Argoe
Refined seafood-focused fine dining with tasting menus and polished service in Newlyn near Penzance. Widely respected for modern Cornish cooking.
Mackerel Sky Seafood Bar
Popular harbourside fish restaurant in Newlyn serving very fresh local seafood in a relaxed setting. A strong choice for classic Cornish catches.
Admiral Benbow
Long-established Penzance pub known for real ale, local seafood, and traditional dishes. Casual, friendly atmosphere with a strong local reputation.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for UK seaside towns: stays rise in summer, dining is mid-priced, and local buses are fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple cafe meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up in cafes and for taxis, or add a small tip for good service.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £6.00
To the city center
Penzance Railway Station -> Penzance Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Most local buses in Penzance accept contactless card and mobile payments onboard. Buy before boarding in the First Bus app to save time.
- Penzance is compact, and the railway station is within walking distance of the town centre and bus stops for onward travel.
FAQs: Trains from Reading to Penzance
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Penzance 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 Penzance, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Reading to Penzance can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $101, while the average price is around $121.
The train from Reading to Penzance takes 4h 34m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Reading to Penzance is 219 miles (354 km).
The first train from Reading to Penzance leaves at 12:48 AM.
The last train from Reading to Penzance leaves at 9:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Reading to Penzance.
Yes, there is a direct train from Reading to Penzance. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Penzance.
The train station in Reading that goes to Penzance is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Penzance station (PNZ).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Penzance is by bus, with a cost of around $100.
The train journey from Reading to Penzance is considered scenic, offering views of the English countryside, the rolling hills of the West Country, and the stunning coastline of Cornwall.
A day trip from Reading to Penzance is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 34m. Trains run 4 times per day over a distance of 219 miles (354 km).
To fully experience Penzance's attractions, scenery, and local culture, a stay of around 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Penzance.
Since neither Reading nor Penzance 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 Penzance include Plymouth, St Ives, Redruth, Truro, Camborne.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Penzance 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 Penzance, travelers should be aware of typical urban safety concerns such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. There are occasional reports of overcharging in taxis, so it’s advisable to agree on fares beforehand or use licensed services. Travelers should also be cautious of unsolicited offers for tours or accommodations to avoid scams. Overall, Penzance is considered safe, but staying vigilant with personal belongings and verifying service providers helps ensure a trouble-free visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Reading to Penzance
Most Reading to Penzance trains use the Reading to Penzance station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Penzance 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 Penzance
Which Reading station do trains to Penzance leave from?
Trains from Reading to Penzance 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.
Reading WestReading West station, Oxford Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 7PY
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.
Which Penzance station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Penzance arrive at Penzance. Penzance is from Penzance city centre.
PenzancePenzance station, Wharf Road, Penzance, Cornwall, TR18 2LT
City-centre transport
Getting to Penzance from Penzance city centre
Bus39A, 16A, 16, 8, 2, 1, 1A, 4, 4A, 6, 17 · 2m · $2 · every ~19 min
Penzance train station facilities and services
Penzance has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, 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 Penzance.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Penzance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Penzance.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Penzance: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Penzance: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Penzance: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A station - This station has step free access to the platforms. 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 car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, 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.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Shoreline bed and breakfast by the sea.
Most popular train connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Penzance
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Penzance and Reading
Most popular train connections to Penzance
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