- Must visit
Reading Museum
Reading's main museum, famed for the Bayeux Tapestry replica, local history, Huntley & Palmers displays, and Abbey galleries.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Swansea to Reading
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
kr460
Average ticket price on Sep 19
kr500
Fastest journey on Sep 19
2 h 22 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
2 h 23 m
Trains on Sep 19
2
Distance
206 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Swansea to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Swansea to Reading will cost around kr500 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr460.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 2 trains from Swansea to Reading, including 2 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 206 km distance in an average of 2 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 22 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 2 h 23 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.
12:24 PM2h22Swansea2:46 PMReadingkr4601One-way0 transfers- 9:23 AM2h23Swansea11:46 AMReadingkr5401One-way0 transfers
- 12:24 PM2h22Swansea2:46 PMReadingkr4601One-way0 transfers
- 9:23 AM2h23Swansea11:46 AMReadingkr5401One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Swansea to Reading
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Swansea to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of kr534 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 1m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of kr534, while a bus costs an average of kr558.
Distance: 128 miles (206 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
kr534 Average price Cheapest | kr558 Average price | kr349 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 1m Average total duration Fastest 2h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 53m Average total duration 5h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 50m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Swansea to Reading is a train with an average price of kr534.
This is compared to other travel options from Swansea to Reading:
A train is kr24 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Swansea to Reading costing on average kr558.
The fastest way to travel from Swansea to Reading is by train with an average journey time of 2h 31m.
Other travel options to Reading take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 23m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Swansea and Reading including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Swansea 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 (2h 31m by train vs 2h 50m by car). Tickets start at around kr534 compared to roughly kr349 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.
Direct services run with Great Western Railway (GWR).
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
Swansea to Reading train times
The table below shows live departures for Swansea to Reading trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
W35196+ G39219 | Delayed 3:50 PM 3:27 PMSwansea station (SWA) | 2h48 | 6:15 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| W35200+G39231 | Delayed 4:50 PM 4:27 PMSwansea station (SWA) | 2h49 | 7:16 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| G15050 | On time 5:22 PM Swansea station (SWA) | 2h25 | 7:47 PM Reading station (RDG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
| 9:23 AM Swansea | 2h23 | 11:46 AM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:24 PM Swansea | 2h22 | 2:46 PM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Swansea to Reading by train or bus
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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Why should you book Swansea to Reading trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway (GWR) or Transport for Wales offer trains services from Swansea to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Swansea to Reading.
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 Great Western Railway (GWR) or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Swansea 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Swansea to Reading.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Swansea to Reading.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Swansea to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Swansea to Reading run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at kr452 but you can travel from only kr139 by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:38, the last at 23:28. The fastest train covers the 128 miles (206 km) distance in 2h 13m.
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 kr139
Distance 128 miles (206 km) |
Average train duration 2h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price kr452 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 2h 13m |
First train 3:38 AM |
Last train 11:28 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 77 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 kr139
Train companies: Great Western Railway, Transport for Wales from Swansea to Reading trainsGreat Western Railway, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Swansea and Reading from kr139. 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 13m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
kr452
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
Transport for Wales
About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
2h 59m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
kr556
Transport for Wales frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking 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 allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
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
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.
- Must visit
Forbury Gardens
Large central park with formal gardens, Thames views, and the iconic Maiwand Lion. A classic place to stroll or relax near downtown.
- Must visit
Reading Abbey Quarter
Historic quarter around the Abbey ruins, museum, and Forbury Gardens. Ideal for understanding Reading's origins on a compact walking route.
- Recommended
King's Meadow
Riverside nature reserve and meadow walk beside the Thames. Peaceful paths and wildlife make it a favorite local escape close to the centre.
Windsor Fish Pie
A Berkshire classic of smoked haddock in a creamy parsley sauce. Traditionally linked to Windsor and widely associated with the wider county.
- Vegetarian
Berkshire Lardy Cake
A rich fruit cake made with currants, butter, eggs, sugar and mixed spice. A long-standing Berkshire tea-time bake.
- Vegetarian
Sally Lunn Bun
A soft yeasted bun spiced with caraway and filled with currants, candied peel and sugar. Traditionally baked in Berkshire and nearby counties.
L'Ortolan
Polished fine dining restaurant known for seasonal British tasting menus and refined service in an elegant central Reading setting.
Bakery House
Popular Reading institution for Lebanese and Middle Eastern plates, known for generous mezze and a lively, casual atmosphere.
London Street Brasserie
Well-regarded independent restaurant serving British and European dishes with seasonal ingredients in a relaxed modern dining room.
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.
Reading Buses
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.90
To the city center
Reading Station -> Broad Street, Reading
- Distance
- 0.7 km
- Travel time
- 9 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Reading Buses, and fare capping can make multiple trips cheaper than buying separate tickets.
- Reading town centre is walkable from Reading Station; many central destinations are about 10 minutes on foot.
FAQs: Trains from Swansea to Reading
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Swansea 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.
Train ticket prices from Swansea to Reading can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at kr452, while the average price is around kr534.
The train from Swansea to Reading takes 2h 13m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Swansea to Reading leaves at 3:38 AM.
The distance by train from Swansea to Reading is 128 miles (206 km).
The last train from Swansea to Reading leaves at 11:28 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Swansea to Reading.
Yes, there is a direct train from Swansea to Reading. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway (GWR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Swansea to Reading.
The train station in Swansea that goes to Reading is Swansea station (SWA), which connects to Reading station (RDG).
The cheapest way to get from Swansea to Reading is by bus, with a cost of around kr139.
The train journey from Swansea to Reading offers scenic views of the Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, especially as it passes through areas like the Vale of Glamorgan and the Severn Estuary.
A day trip from Swansea to Reading is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 13m. Trains operate 6 times per day.
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 Swansea to Reading.
Since neither Swansea 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 Swansea 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 Swansea to Reading
Most Swansea to Reading trains use the Swansea to Reading station pair. Use this guide to compare Swansea and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Swansea
Arrival train stations in Reading
Which Swansea station do trains to Reading leave from?
Trains from Swansea to Reading leave from Swansea. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Swansea city centre at Swansea station, High Street, Swansea, City & County of Swansea, SA1 1NU.
SwanseaSwansea station, High Street, Swansea, City & County of Swansea, SA1 1NU+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Swansea from Swansea city centre
Bus49, 30, 54 · 3m · kr32 · every ~3 min
Swansea train station facilities and services
Swansea has practical services for this route, including 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 Swansea.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Swansea.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Swansea.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Swansea: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Swansea: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Swansea: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access to all platforms, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: on concourse, 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.
Which Reading station do trains from Swansea arrive at?
Trains from Swansea to Reading arrive at Reading. Reading is from Reading city centre.
ReadingReading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading from Reading city centre
Bus26, 90, 87 · 2m · kr16 · 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.
Most popular train connections from Swansea
More options for your journey from Swansea to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Swansea
Most popular train connections to Reading
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