Southampton to Reading train with CrossCountry

Tue, Oct 27
+ Add return
CrossCountry
South Western Railway
Great Western Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
South Western Railway
Great Western Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Southampton to Reading

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 27

Cheapest price on Oct 27

€36

Average ticket price on Oct 27

€36

Fastest journey on Oct 27

51 m

Average journey duration on Oct 27

1 h 4 m

Trains on Oct 27

2

Distance

68 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Southampton to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Southampton to Reading will cost around €36 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €36.

Fast trains

On Tue, Oct 27, we found 2 trains from Southampton to Reading, including 1 direct services.

On Tue, Oct 27 the direct trains cover the 68 km distance in an average of 1 h 4 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 51 m .

On Tue, Oct 27 the slowest trains will take 1 h 16 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.

  • CrossCountryG00847
    5:15 AM0h51
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    6:06 AMReading station (RDG)
    €361One-way
    0 transfers
  • South Western RailwayL78744+CrossCountryG00849
    5:52 AM1h16
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    7:08 AMReading station (RDG)
    €361One-way
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Southampton to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Southampton to Reading run on average 7 times per day, taking around 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €8 if you book in advance.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:45, the last at 23:41. The fastest train covers the 42 miles (68 km) distance in 50m.

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
42 miles (68 km)
Average train duration
55m
Cheapest ticket price
€8
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
50m
First train
4:45 AM
Last train
11:41 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Thu
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

Frequently asked questions about your Southampton to Reading trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Southampton to Reading.

Train ticket prices from Southampton to Reading can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €8, while the average price is around €26.
The train from Southampton to Reading takes 50m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Southampton to Reading leaves at 4:45 AM.
The distance by train from Southampton to Reading is 42 miles (68 km).
The last train from Southampton to Reading leaves at 11:41 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Southampton to Reading. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry.

Live departures

Southampton to Reading train times

The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Reading trains for today, Monday, October 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
South Western RailwayL78870+Great Western RailwayC03032
On time
6:30 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h12
7:42 AM Reading West (RDW)
1 transfer
South Western RailwayL78751+Great Western RailwayC03033
On time
7:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h02
8:02 AM Reading West (RDW)
1 transfer
CrossCountryG00851
On time
7:15 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
0h54
8:09 AM Reading station (RDG)
0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG00739
On time
7:55 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
0h50
8:45 AM Reading station (RDG)
0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG00855
On time
8:15 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
0h54
9:09 AM Reading station (RDG)
0 transfersDirect
South Western RailwayL78761 · L79928+Great Western RailwayC03041
On time
8:30 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h13
9:43 AM Reading West (RDW)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00858
On time
9:15 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
0h55
10:10 AM Reading station (RDG)
0 transfersDirect
South Western RailwayL80065 · L79934+Great Western RailwayC030459:30 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h22
10:52 AM Reading West (RDW)2 transfers
CrossCountryG0086110:15 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
0h53
11:08 AM Reading station (RDG)0 transfersDirect
South Western RailwayL80069 · L79940+Great Western RailwayC03050
On time
10:30 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h15
11:45 AM Reading West (RDW)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG0086611:15 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
0h51
12:06 PM Reading station (RDG)0 transfersDirect
South Western RailwayL80074 · L79946+Great Western RailwayC03055
On time
11:30 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h28
12:58 PM Reading West (RDW)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00875
On time
12:15 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
0h54
1:09 PM Reading station (RDG)
0 transfersDirect
South Western RailwayL80080 · L79952+Great Western RailwayC03060
On time
12:30 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h21
1:51 PM Reading West (RDW)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00879
On time
1:15 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
0h53
2:08 PM Reading station (RDG)
0 transfersDirect
South Western RailwayL80088 · L79958+Great Western RailwayC03065
On time
1:30 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h26
2:56 PM Reading West (RDW)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00887
On time
2:15 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
0h51
3:06 PM Reading station (RDG)
0 transfersDirect
South Western RailwayL80098 · L79964+Great Western RailwayC03070
On time
2:30 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h19
3:49 PM Reading West (RDW)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00891
On time
3:15 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
0h54
4:09 PM Reading station (RDG)
0 transfersDirect
South Western RailwayL80106 · L79970+Great Western RailwayC03075
On time
3:30 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h14
4:44 PM Reading West (RDW)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00895
On time
4:15 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
0h50
5:05 PM Reading station (RDG)
0 transfersDirect
South Western RailwayL80116 · L79976+Great Western RailwayC03080
On time
4:30 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h14
5:44 PM Reading West (RDW)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG009015:15 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
0h52
6:07 PM Reading station (RDG)0 transfersDirect
South Western RailwayL80469+Great Western RailwayC030875:24 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h35
6:59 PM Reading West (RDW)1 transfer
South Western RailwayL80124 · L79982+Great Western RailwayC03085
On time
5:30 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h09
6:39 PM Reading West (RDW)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00912
On time
6:15 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
0h52
7:07 PM Reading station (RDG)
0 transfersDirect
South Western RailwayL80134 · L79988 · L79302
On time
6:30 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h17
7:47 PM Reading station (RDG)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00918
On time
7:15 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
0h54
8:09 PM Reading station (RDG)
0 transfersDirect
South Western RailwayL80144 · L79994 · L79303
On time
7:30 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h21
8:51 PM Reading station (RDG)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00925
On time
8:15 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
0h53
9:08 PM Reading station (RDG)
0 transfersDirect
South Western RailwayL80154 · L84475+Great Western RailwayC03102
On time
8:30 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h22
9:52 PM Reading West (RDW)
2 transfers
South Western RailwayL80298+Great Western RailwayC03104
On time
8:59 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h37
10:36 PM Reading West (RDW)
1 transfer
South Western RailwayL80170 · L84477+Great Western RailwayC03106
On time
9:30 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h29
10:59 PM Reading West (RDW)
2 transfers
South Western RailwayL80314+Great Western RailwayC03108
On time
9:58 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h22
11:20 PM Reading West (RDW)
1 transfer
South Western RailwayL84998+Great Western RailwayG15311
On time
11:00 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
1h27
12:27 AM Reading West (RDW)
1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Southampton to Reading trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as South Western Railway or Great Western Railway offer trains services from Southampton to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Reading.

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 South Western Railway or Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Reading.
  • 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 Southampton to Reading.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway or Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Reading.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Southampton to Reading.

Train companies: CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, South Western Railway from Southampton to Reading trainsCrossCountry, Great Western Railway, South Western Railway trains will get you between Southampton and Reading from €8. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
50m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
€10
CrossCountry frequency
4 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
56m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
€20
Great Western Railway frequency
3 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

South Western Railway

About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average South Western Railway Duration
53m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
€8
South Western Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Southampton and Reading

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train from Southampton to Reading.
Yes, there is a night train from Southampton to Reading.
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.

Complete guide to Reading

Things to do in Reading

Discover the best of Reading — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Reading trip today.

  • Must visit

Reading Museum

Reading's main museum, famed for the Bayeux Tapestry replica, local history, Huntley & Palmers displays, and Abbey galleries.

  • Must visit

The Museum of English Rural Life

Modern art gallery in the civic centre showing changing exhibitions by regional and national artists in a central, accessible space.

  • Must visit

The Museum of English Rural Life

University museum with strong agriculture, countryside, and design collections. Popular for families and one of Reading's standout visits.

Pound sterling (£)

Reading is pricier than many UK towns. Hotels and dining are above average, but rail and local buses are manageable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
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

Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10% for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up or tipped 10%. Cafes usually do not require tipping.

Plan your visit to Reading

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Reading.

The train journey from Southampton to Reading offers a mix of urban and rural views, passing through the picturesque English countryside, with sights of rolling hills and small towns, providing a pleasant, though not particularly dramatic, scenic experience.
Popular day trips by train from Reading include London, Oxford, Bracknell, Slough, Maidenhead.
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 Reading, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Common scams include overcharging by taxis and unofficial tour guides. Staying vigilant in busy spots and using licensed services helps ensure 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.

FAQs: Trains from Southampton to Reading

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton to Reading 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 Reading, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Southampton to Reading.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Southampton to Reading

Most Southampton to Reading trains use the Southampton Central to Reading station pair, with some services arriving at Reading West. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Southampton
Arrival train stations in Reading

Which Southampton station do trains to Reading leave from?

Trains from Southampton to Reading leave from Southampton Central. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Southampton city centre at Southampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL.
Southampton CentralSouthampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL+44 345 600 0650WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Southampton Central from Southampton city centre

BusX4, X5 · 5m · €2 · every ~20 min

Southampton Central train station facilities and services

Southampton Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Southampton Central.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Central. ATMs are available at Southampton Central.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Southampton Central.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Southampton Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Southampton Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Central: 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 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: Yes.

Southampton Airport ParkwaySouthampton Airport Parkway station, Wide Lane, Southampton, Hampshire, SO18 2HW+44 345 600 0650WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Southampton Airport Parkway from Southampton city centre

Southampton Airport Parkway is 5 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainSalisbury - Romsey, Weymouth - London Waterloo, Bournemouth - Winchester, Poole - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - London Waterloo, Weymouth - Woking, Bournemouth - Basingstoke, Poole - Winchester, Southampton Central - Basingstoke, Bournemouth - London Waterloo, Poole - Eastleigh, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Romsey - Romsey, Southampton Central - Woking, Salisbury - Salisbury, Salisbury - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Romsey · 10m · €3 · every ~8 min
BusU1a, U1e · 34m · €2 · every ~21 min
U1a, U1e · 40m · €2 · every ~37 min

Southampton Airport Parkway train station facilities and services

Southampton Airport Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Airport Parkway. ATMs are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Southampton Airport Parkway.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Airport Parkway: 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.

Millbrook (Hants)Millbrook station, Millbrook Road West, Millbrook, Hampshire, SO15 0ABWifiParkingLost and Found Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Millbrook (Hants) from Southampton city centre

Millbrook (Hants) is 2 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRomsey - Romsey, Romsey - Salisbury, Salisbury - Salisbury, Southampton Central - Romsey, Eastleigh - Salisbury, Southampton Central - Salisbury · 3m · €1 · every ~2 min
Bus86 · 4m · €2 · every ~2 min
86 · 9m · €2 · every ~2 min

Millbrook (Hants) train station facilities and services

Millbrook (Hants) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, and Lost and Found Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Millbrook (Hants).

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Millbrook (Hants): Parking.

Train stations for Southampton to Reading

Check train stations information for Southampton and Reading, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Southampton that goes to Reading is Southampton Central, which connects to Reading.

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