Southend-on-Sea to Reading train with c2c

Sat, Aug 29
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Greater Anglia
c2c
South Western Railway
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Greater Anglia
c2c
South Western Railway
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Southend-on-Sea to Reading

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 29

Cheapest price on Aug 29

$41

Average ticket price on Aug 29

$42

Fastest journey on Aug 29

2 h

Average journey duration on Aug 29

2 h

Trains on Aug 29

18

Distance

117 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Southend-on-Sea to Reading will cost around $42 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $41.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Southend-on-Sea to Reading without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Greater AngliaP76766+Elizabeth lineC38212+Great Western RailwayC42203
    8:51 AM2h17
    Southend Victoria (SOV)
    11:08 AMReading station (RDG)
    $411One-way
    2 transfers
  • Greater AngliaP66879+Elizabeth lineC38424+Great Western RailwayW35143
    4:31 PM2h00
    Southend Victoria (SOV)
    6:31 PMReading station (RDG)
    $411One-way
    2 transfers
  • Greater AngliaP76868+Elizabeth lineC37339+Great Western RailwayW34641
    4:11 PM2h00
    Southend Victoria (SOV)
    6:11 PMReading station (RDG)
    $411One-way
    2 transfers
  • Greater AngliaP66772+Elizabeth lineC38574+Great Western RailwayW34758
    8:31 AM2h07
    Southend Victoria (SOV)
    10:38 AMReading station (RDG)
    $411One-way
    2 transfers
  • Greater AngliaC04051+Elizabeth lineC37049+Great Western RailwayW35112
    8:11 AM2h19
    Southend Victoria (SOV)
    10:30 AMReading station (RDG)
    $411One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train for Southend-on-Sea to Reading

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southend-on-Sea to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $42 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 17m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $42, while a train costs an average of $42.

Distance: 72 miles (117 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Driving

$42

Average price

Cheapest

$32

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 17m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 47m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 6m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

c2c

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Southend-on-Sea to Reading is a train with an average price of $42 (€34).
The fastest way to travel from Southend-on-Sea to Reading is by train with an average journey time of 1h 47m.
Yes, you can take a train between Southend-on-Sea and Reading.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southend-on-Sea to Reading 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 19m sooner (1h 47m by train vs 2h 6m by car). Tickets start at around $42 (€34) compared to roughly $32 (€26) 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

Southend-on-Sea to Reading train times

The table below shows live departures for Southend-on-Sea to Reading trains for tomorrow, Saturday, August 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
c2cF47849+Elizabeth lineC37142+Great Western RailwayW346158:00 AM Southend Central (SOC)
2h11
10:11 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
Greater AngliaC04051+Elizabeth lineC37049+Great Western RailwayW351128:11 AM Southend Victoria (SOV)
2h19
10:30 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
c2cF48074+Elizabeth lineC37264+Great Western RailwayW35112+TubeTube from London Fenchurch Street to Whitechapel8:12 AM Southend Central (SOC)
2h18
10:30 AM Reading station (RDG)3 transfers
Greater AngliaP66772+Elizabeth lineC38574+Great Western RailwayW347588:31 AM Southend Victoria (SOV)
2h07
10:38 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
Greater AngliaP76766+Elizabeth lineC38212+Great Western RailwayC422038:51 AM Southend Victoria (SOV)
2h17
11:08 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers
c2cF47845+Elizabeth lineC38221+Great Western RailwayC422039:00 AM Southend Central (SOC)
2h08
11:08 AM Reading station (RDG)2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Southend-on-Sea to Reading by train

Compare train 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
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01
Wed
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04

Why should you book Southend-on-Sea to Reading trains with Omio?

Greater Anglia as well as c2c, South Western Railway, Great Western Railway and more offer trains services from Southend-on-Sea to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southend-on-Sea to Reading.

Why book with Omio vs Greater Anglia?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greater Anglia, but also compare tickets for the likes of c2c, South Western Railway or Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Southend-on-Sea 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.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of c2c, South Western Railway or Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Southend-on-Sea to Reading.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Southend-on-Sea to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Southend-on-Sea to Reading run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $41 (€33) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 01:15, the last at 23:14. The fastest train covers the 72 miles (117 km) distance in 1h 20m.

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
72 miles (117 km)
Average train duration
1h 47m
Cheapest ticket price
$41 (€33)
Trains per day
9
Fastest train
1h 20m
First train
1:15 AM
Last train
11:14 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
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: c2c, Elizabeth line, Greater Anglia from Southend-on-Sea to Reading trainsc2c, Elizabeth line, Greater Anglia trains will get you between Southend-on-Sea and Reading from $41 (€33). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

c2c

About
c2c is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Fenchurch Street to destinations in East London and Essex, including Southend, Basildon, and Grays. c2c offers a range of train types, including the Class 357 Electrostar, Class 312 Electrostar, and Class 315 Electrostar. These trains are modern and comfortable, with air conditioning, power sockets, and free Wi-Fi. c2c also offers a range of ticket types, including Anytime, Off-Peak, and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include a café bar, toilets, and luggage storage. The most popular routes for c2c are London Fenchurch Street to Southend Central, London Fenchurch Street to Basildon, and London Fenchurch Street to Grays.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 20m
Cheapest Price
$43 (€34)
c2c frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar/bistro service available on most trains offering snacks, drinks, and light meals
Seat reservation
Seat reservations mandatory and included in ticket price for high-speed trains, optional for regional trains
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, service animals free
Quiet zone

Greater Anglia

About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 34m
Cheapest Price
$41 (€33)
Greater Anglia frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone

Elizabeth line

About
Tfl Rail is a railway service operated by Transport for London in the United Kingdom. It operates on the Great Western Main Line and the Heathrow branch of the London Underground. The service runs from Paddington in London to Reading, Maidenhead, Slough, and Heathrow Airport. It also serves the towns of Taplow, Burnham, Twyford, and Hayes & Harlington. All trains are air-conditioned and feature onboard Wi-Fi, power sockets, and digital information screens. Tfl Rail offers a range of ticket types, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and Oyster cards. Oyster cards are the most popular ticket type, allowing passengers to pay for their journey with a single card. The most popular routes for Tfl Rail are Paddington to Reading, Paddington to Maidenhead, and Paddington to Heathrow Airport. These routes offer frequent services and provide passengers with a convenient way to travel between London and the surrounding areas.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 6m
Cheapest Price
$43 (€34)
Elizabeth line frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available through TfL website or customer service
Refund
Full refund available for service cancellations
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
No dedicated dining car. Passengers can bring their own food and drinks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Step-free access at most stations, wheelchair spaces on trains, priority seating
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be leashed. Guide dogs welcome
Quiet zone

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.

FAQs: Trains from Southend-on-Sea to Reading

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southend-on-Sea 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
Train ticket prices from Southend-on-Sea to Reading can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $41 (€33), while the average price is around $42 (€34).
The train from Southend-on-Sea to Reading takes 1h 20m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Southend-on-Sea to Reading is 72 miles (117 km).
The first train from Southend-on-Sea to Reading leaves at 1:15 AM.
The last train from Southend-on-Sea to Reading leaves at 11:14 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Southend-on-Sea to Reading.
There is no direct train service currently available from Southend-on-Sea to Reading.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Southend-on-Sea to Reading.
The train station in Southend-on-Sea that goes to Reading is Southend Airport (SIA), which connects to Reading station (RDG).
The cheapest way to get from Southend-on-Sea to Reading is by train, with a cost of around $41 (€33).
The train journey from Southend-on-Sea to Reading offers a mix of urban and suburban landscapes, with sections passing through the picturesque countryside of Essex and Berkshire, though it is not typically highlighted for its scenic views.
A day trip from Southend-on-Sea to Reading is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 20m, which exceeds the 120-minute limit. However, there are 8 trips available per day by train. The distance between the two locations is 72 miles (117 km).
Two to three days are typically sufficient to explore the main attractions and experience the cultural highlights of Reading.
Yes, you can take the train from Southend-on-Sea to Reading.
Since neither Southend-on-Sea nor Reading 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 Reading include London, Oxford, Bracknell, Slough, Maidenhead.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southend-on-Sea to Reading 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 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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Southend-on-Sea to Reading

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

Departure train stations in Southend-on-Sea
Arrival train stations in Reading

Which Southend-on-Sea station do trains to Reading leave from?

Trains from Southend-on-Sea to Reading leave from Southend Airport. The station is 2 miles (4 km) from Southend-on-Sea city centre at Southend Airport station, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 6YF.
Southend VictoriaSouthend Victoria station, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 6AZWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Southend Victoria from Southend-on-Sea city centre

Bus25, 7, 20, 825, 827, 21S, 28, 21, 3, 26, 20S · 3m · $4 · every ~69 min

Southend Victoria train station facilities and services

Southend Victoria has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Southend Victoria.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Southend Victoria. ATMs are available at Southend Victoria.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Southend Victoria. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Southend Victoria: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Southend Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Southend Victoria: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Taxi rank at front of station, 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: No.

Southend CentralSouthend Central station, Clifftown Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1AB+44 8450507080WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Southend Central from Southend-on-Sea city centre

Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBus stops on Clifftown Road near The Last Public House

Southend Central train station facilities and services

Southend Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Southend Central.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Southend Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03457 44 44 22, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Southend Central: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Southend Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Southend Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

PrittlewellPrittlewell station, Station Approach, Prittlewell, Essex, SS2 5BT+44 3450507080WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Prittlewell from Southend-on-Sea city centre

Prittlewell is 1 km from Southend-on-Sea city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainSouthend Victoria - London Liverpool Street · 2m · $1 · every ~6 min

Prittlewell train station facilities and services

Prittlewell has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Prittlewell.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Prittlewell.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Prittlewell.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Prittlewell: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Prittlewell: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Prittlewell: Staff help available: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

More options for your journey from Southend-on-Sea to Reading

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