- Must visit
The Box
Plymouth’s main museum, gallery, and archive. It covers local art, natural history, and maritime stories in an impressive contemporary cultural hub.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Plymouth
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 20
Cheapest price on Oct 20
$83
Average ticket price on Oct 20
$83
Fastest journey on Oct 20
2 h 44 m
Average journey duration on Oct 20
2 h 44 m
Trains on Oct 20
1
Distance
253 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Plymouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Plymouth will cost around $83 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $83.
Fast trains
On Tue, Oct 20, we found 1 trains from Reading to Plymouth, including 1 direct services.
On Tue, Oct 20 the direct trains cover the 253 km distance in an average of 2 h 44 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 44 m .
On Tue, Oct 20 the slowest trains will take 2 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.
12:29 PM2h44Reading3:13 PMPlymouth$831One-way0 transfers
- 12:29 PM2h44Reading3:13 PMPlymouth$831One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Plymouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Plymouth run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $54 (€45) if you book in advance.
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:12, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 157 miles (253 km) distance in 2h 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
Distance 157 miles (253 km) |
Average train duration 2h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $54 (€45) |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 2h 34m |
First train 12:12 AM |
Last train 11:56 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 2 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
Live departures
Reading to Plymouth train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Plymouth trains for today, Monday, October 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:02 AM Reading | 3h10 | 1:12 PM Plymouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:29 AM Reading | 2h44 | 1:13 PM Plymouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:29 PM Reading | 2h48 | 5:17 PM Plymouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:49 PM Reading | 4h49 | 4:38 AM Plymouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Reading to Plymouth trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry offer trains services from Reading to Plymouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Plymouth.
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 to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Plymouth.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Plymouth.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Plymouth.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Plymouth.
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry from Reading to Plymouth trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Reading and Plymouth from $54 (€45). 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
2h 34m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$54 (€45)
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
3h 4m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$92 (€77)
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 Plymouth
Things to do in Plymouth
Discover the best of Plymouth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Plymouth trip today.
- Must visit
National Marine Aquarium
Interactive aquarium on the waterfront with ocean habitats, conservation displays, and a huge tank. A popular family attraction with strong educational value.
- Recommended
Merchant's House
Tudor merchant’s residence in the Barbican, furnished to evoke historic domestic life. A compact museum ideal for understanding old Plymouth society.
- Must visit
Plymouth Hoe
Large waterfront parkland with sea views, monuments, and lawns. It is Plymouth’s classic promenade and a prime place to start exploring the city.
- Must visit
The Barbican
Historic harbourside quarter of cobbled lanes, old buildings, galleries, and maritime atmosphere. It is among Plymouth’s most characterful walking areas.
- Recommended
Armada Way
Broad city-centre avenue rebuilt after the Second World War. Shops, civic buildings, and public art make it useful for understanding modern Plymouth.
- Vegetarian
Devon Cream Tea
A classic Devon cream tea of scones, jam and clotted cream. In Devon, the cream goes on before the jam, making it a proud local ritual.
Pasty
A traditional South West pasty with beef, potato, swede and onion in pastry. Common across Devon and Cornwall and a familiar local grab-and-go meal.
- Gluten-free
Plymouth-Caught Seafood
Fresh fish landed from Plymouth's historic fishing port, often grilled or battered. The city's waterfront location makes local seafood a signature choice.
The Artillery Tower
Refined fine dining restaurant known for modern British tasting menus, polished service and a special occasion atmosphere near Plymouth Hoe.
Jacka Bakery
Long-established market café famous for generous breakfasts, sandwiches and casual local dining in Plymouth Market.
The Harbour Seafood Restaurant and Takeaway
Historic waterside pub in the Barbican serving seafood, local ales and hearty British dishes in a traditional, characterful setting.
British pound (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels are often cheaper than London, while dining and local buses are fairly priced for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 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.
Plymouth Citybus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.80
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city center
Plymouth Railway Station -> Plymouth City Centre
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Plymouth Citybus buses. Ask the driver for the cheapest valid fare if unsure.
- Plymouth has no tram or metro; most local public transport is by bus. Check live departures in the Plymouth Citybus app before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Reading to Plymouth
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Plymouth 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 Plymouth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Reading to Plymouth can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $54 (€45), while the average price is around $112 (€94).
The train from Reading to Plymouth takes 2h 34m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Reading to Plymouth leaves at 12:12 AM.
The distance by train from Reading to Plymouth is 157 miles (253 km).
The last train from Reading to Plymouth leaves at 11:56 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Reading to Plymouth.
Yes, there is a direct train from Reading to Plymouth. This service operates 6 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Plymouth.
The train station in Reading that goes to Plymouth is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Plymouth station (PLY).
The train journey from Reading to Plymouth offers a scenic experience, featuring picturesque views of the English countryside, charming villages, and sections along the coast as the train approaches Plymouth.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Plymouth.
Popular day trips by train from Plymouth include Truro, Exeter, Newton Abbot, Newquay, Camborne.
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 Plymouth, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas such as the Barbican and city center. Some may encounter overcharging or unofficial taxi services, so it's advised to use licensed taxis. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional scams involving street vendors or unsolicited offers for tours. Staying vigilant and using official transportation and booking channels helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Reading to Plymouth
Most Reading to Plymouth trains use the Reading to Plymouth station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Plymouth 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 Plymouth
Which Reading station do trains to Plymouth leave from?
Trains from Reading to Plymouth leave from Reading. The station is from Reading city centre at Reading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ.
ReadingReading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading from Reading city centre
Bus26, 90, 87 · 2m · $3 · every ~15 min
Reading train station facilities and services
Reading has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Reading.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Reading.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Reading.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Reading: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Reading: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: platforms can be reached via lift and bridge, ticket office is step free, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Accessible low-level Pay Phone is available at the station main concourse. Please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxi are available at the station entrance. please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office and at the car park, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Reading 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 · $2 · every ~6 min
Bus15, 15a, 16, 17, 91, 85, 88, 93, 43 · 4m · $3 · 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 Plymouth station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Plymouth arrive at Plymouth. Plymouth is 0 miles (1 km) from Plymouth city centre.
PlymouthPlymouth station, North Road, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 6AB+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Plymouth from Plymouth city centre
Bus13, 2, 170 · 4m · $3 · every ~11 min
Plymouth train station facilities and services
Plymouth has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Plymouth.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Plymouth. ATMs are available at Plymouth.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Plymouth.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Plymouth: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Plymouth: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Plymouth: 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 all platforms via lifts and the station subway. 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 may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Station pay phones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance, 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, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
More options for your journey from Reading to Plymouth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Plymouth and Reading
Most popular train connections to Plymouth
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