- Must visit
Mary Rose Museum
World-class museum housing Henry VIII's raised flagship. See the preserved Tudor warship and immersive galleries on life aboard.
Cheapest price on Sep 15
$50
Average ticket price on Sep 15
$54
Fastest journey on Sep 15
2 h 9 m
Average journey duration on Sep 15
2 h 11 m
Trains on Sep 15
2
Distance
74 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Portsmouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Portsmouth will cost around $54 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $50.
On Tue, Sep 15, we found 2 trains from Reading to Portsmouth, including 2 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 15 the direct trains cover the 74 km distance in an average of 2 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 9 m .
On Tue, Sep 15 the slowest trains will take 2 h 12 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.




Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Portsmouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $56 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 6m. 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 train costs an average of $56, while a bus costs an average of $68.
Distance: 45 miles (74 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$56 Average price Cheapest | $68 Average price | $21 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 6m Average total duration Fastest 1h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 51m Average total duration 2h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 29m 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Reading to Portsmouth:
A train is $12 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Reading to Portsmouth costing on average $68.
Other travel options to Portsmouth take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 21m.
Tickets start at around $56 compared to roughly $21 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-34.76. The journey takes 1h 36m versus 1h 29m 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.
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Portsmouth trains for today, Monday, September 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
C48469+ L79914 | On time 8:28 AM Reading West (RDW) | 1h44 | 10:12 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 1 transfer | |
G00997+ G88594+ G15003 | On time 8:54 AM Reading station (RDG) | 1h54 | 10:48 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 2 transfers | |
G00997+ G15003 | On time 8:54 AM Reading station (RDG) | 1h58 | 10:52 AM Portsmouth Harbour (PMH) | 1 transfer | |
G00997+ G15003 | On time 8:54 AM Reading station (RDG) | 1h54 | 10:48 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 1 transfer | |
G00997+ G88594+ G15003 | On time 8:54 AM Reading station (RDG) | 1h58 | 10:52 AM Portsmouth Harbour (PMH) | 2 transfers | |
G15092+ L79567 | On time 8:54 AM Reading station (RDG) | 2h03 | 10:57 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 1 transfer | |
C48471+ L79920 | On time 9:03 AM Reading West (RDW) | 2h09 | 11:12 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 1 transfer | |
G15093+ L79577 | On time 9:24 AM Reading station (RDG) | 2h19 | 11:43 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 1 transfer | |
C48473+ G01000+ W34974 | On time 9:34 AM Reading station (RDG) | 2h18 | 11:52 AM Portsmouth Harbour (PMH) | 2 transfers | |
C48473+ G01000+ W34974 | On time 9:34 AM Reading station (RDG) | 2h13 | 11:47 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 2 transfers | |
C48473+ G01000+ W34974 | On time 9:37 AM Reading West (RDW) | 2h15 | 11:52 AM Portsmouth Harbour (PMH) | 2 transfers | |
C48473+ G01000+ W34974 | On time 9:37 AM Reading West (RDW) | 2h10 | 11:47 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 2 transfers | |
| Tuesday, September 15 | |||||
![]() | 6:00 AM Reading | 2h12 | 8:12 AM Portsmouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Reading to Portsmouth run on average 5 times per day, taking around 1h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $51 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:20, the last at 23:35. The fastest train covers the 45 miles (74 km) distance in 1h 31m.
Distance 45 miles (74 km) |
Average train duration 1h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $51 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 1h 31m |
First train 4:20 AM |
Last train 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 2 days |
Discover the best of Portsmouth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Portsmouth trip today.
World-class museum housing Henry VIII's raised flagship. See the preserved Tudor warship and immersive galleries on life aboard.
Museum dedicated to HMS Victory and Nelson's navy. Learn about the Battle of Trafalgar and life in the age of sail.
Historic ironclad from 1860 that changed naval warfare. Explore decks, engine spaces and displays in the Historic Dockyard.
Historic harbourfront quarter with cobbled lanes, old pubs, sea walls and major naval attractions. Ideal for first-time visitors on foot.
Atmospheric old quarter with narrow streets, Georgian houses and waterfront views. Great for history, churches and a quieter local feel.
Lively seafront district known for beach walks, gardens, castle and independent venues. A classic area for promenade views and relaxation.
A Portsmouth classic of battered cod or haddock with chips, tied to the city’s long naval and seafaring tradition and best eaten fresh by the waterfront.
Fresh crab landed on the south coast, often served simply in sandwiches or salads. It reflects Portsmouth’s harbour access and strong seafood culture.
Portsmouth sits by rich oyster waters, and oysters are a traditional local treat served raw or dressed, prized for their fresh, briny flavour.
Refined fine dining in Southsea known for modern British tasting menus, polished service, and a special-occasion atmosphere.
Lively Southsea venue famous for fresh seafood and shellfish, offering a casual setting popular with locals and visitors.
Historic waterside pub in Old Portsmouth serving cask ales and classic British dishes with harbour views and traditional character.
Moderate for the UK. Hotels often cost less than London, while dining and local transit are mid-range for a coastal city.
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Official public transport app
Portsmouth Harbour -> Commercial Road, Portsmouth
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Reading to Portsmouth trains use the Reading to Portsmouth & Southsea station pair, with some services arriving at Portsmouth Harbour. Use this guide to compare Reading and Portsmouth train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like 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 options are available at Reading.
ATMs are available at Reading.
Ticket office support is available at Reading.
Available at Reading: Parking, WC.
Available at Reading: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
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 West is 1 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options are available at Reading West.
Ticket office support is available at Reading West.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Reading West: Parking.
Available at Reading West: Bike Parking.
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 Park is 3 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
Reading Green Park has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading Green Park.
Portsmouth & Southsea has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth & Southsea. ATMs are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Parking, WC.
Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth & Southsea: 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. Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Portsmouth Harbour is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:
Portsmouth Harbour has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Portsmouth Harbour.
Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth Harbour. ATMs are available at Portsmouth Harbour.
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth Harbour.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Portsmouth Harbour: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Portsmouth Harbour: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth Harbour: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - Steps or 20m ramp (approx. 1:11 gradient) to main entrance, or steps to side entrance. 32m ramp (gradient up to 1:8) from Wightlink IoW ferry terminal. Level access to all platforms. Stepped footbridge between platforms is also available. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Fratton is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:
Fratton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Fratton.
Wi-Fi is available at Fratton.
Ticket office support is available at Fratton. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0800 5282100.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Fratton: Parking, WC.
Available at Fratton: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Fratton: 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, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
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