- 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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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Windsor to Reading
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Windsor to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 39m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $18, and a bus costs an average of $18.
Distance: 16 miles (26 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
$20 Average price Cheapest | $42 Average price |
1h 9m Average total duration Fastest 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 0m Average total duration 2h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Windsor to Reading is a train with an average price of $20 (€16).
This is compared to other travel options from Windsor to Reading:
A train is $22 (€18) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Windsor to Reading costing on average $42 (€34).
The fastest way to travel from Windsor to Reading is by train with an average journey time of 39m.
Other travel options to Reading take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Windsor and Reading including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Windsor to Reading among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Windsor to Reading by bus or train
Compare bus and 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.
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Why should you book Windsor to Reading trains with Omio?
Elizabeth line as well as Great Western Railway or South Western Railway offer trains services from Windsor to Reading.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Elizabeth line tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Elizabeth line?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Elizabeth line, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway or South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Windsor 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 Elizabeth line with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Windsor to Reading.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Windsor to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Windsor to Reading run on average 8 times per day, taking around 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $18 (€15) but you can travel from only $18 (€15) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:24, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 16 miles (26 km) distance in 35m.
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 $18 (€15)
Distance 16 miles (26 km) |
Average train duration 39m |
Cheapest ticket price $18 (€15) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 35m |
First train 2:24 AM |
Last train 11:56 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 35 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 $18 (€15)
Train companies: Elizabeth line, Great Western Railway, South Western Railway from Windsor to Reading trainsElizabeth line, Great Western Railway, South Western Railway trains will get you between Windsor and Reading from $18 (€15). 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 Duration
36m
Cheapest Price
$20 (€17)
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 Duration
1h 20m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€15)
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
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
35m
Cheapest Price
$20 (€17)
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
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 Windsor to Reading
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Windsor 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 Windsor to Reading can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $18 (€15), while the average price is around $20 (€16).
The train from Windsor to Reading takes 35m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Windsor to Reading leaves at 2:24 AM.
The distance by train from Windsor to Reading is 16 miles (26 km).
The last train from Windsor to Reading leaves at 11:56 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Windsor to Reading.
There is no direct train service currently available from Windsor to Reading.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Windsor to Reading.
The train station in Windsor that goes to Reading is Windsor & Eton Central (WNC), which connects to Reading station (RDG).
The cheapest way to get from Windsor to Reading is by bus, with a cost of around $18 (€15).
The train journey from Windsor to Reading offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque countryside of Berkshire, including stretches of open fields and charming English villages.
Yes, a day trip from Windsor to Reading is feasible with a travel time of 35m, a distance of 16 miles (26 km), and a train frequency of 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 Windsor to Reading.
Since neither Windsor 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 Windsor 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 Windsor to Reading
Most Windsor to Reading trains use the Windsor & Eton Central to Reading station pair, with some services arriving at Reading Green Park. Use this guide to compare Windsor and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Windsor
Arrival train stations in Reading
Which Windsor station do trains to Reading leave from?
Trains from Windsor to Reading leave from Windsor & Eton Central. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Windsor city centre at Windsor & Eton Central station, Royal Windsor Shopping Centre, Thames Street, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 1PJ.
Windsor & Eton CentralWindsor & Eton Central station, Royal Windsor Shopping Centre, Thames Street, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 1PJ+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Windsor & Eton Central from Windsor city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBus Stop outside Hare & Garter, Opposite Windsor Castle
Windsor & Eton Central train station facilities and services
Windsor & Eton Central has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Windsor & Eton Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Windsor & Eton Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Windsor & Eton Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Windsor & Eton Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Windsor & Eton Central: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Windsor & Eton 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 the platform. 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 public telephones: No, Accessible taxis: Please request staff assistance, 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: No.
Windsor & Eton RiversideWindsor & Eton Riverside station, Datchet Road, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 1QG+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Windsor & Eton Riverside from Windsor city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesDatchet Road (B470) by station.
Windsor & Eton Riverside train station facilities and services
Windsor & Eton Riverside has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Windsor & Eton Riverside.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Windsor & Eton Riverside. ATMs are available at Windsor & Eton Riverside.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Windsor & Eton Riverside. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 0800 5282100.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Windsor & Eton Riverside: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Windsor & Eton Riverside: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Windsor & Eton Riverside: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - Short ramps at up to 1:9 gradient from car parks and main entrance to concourse - then level access to both 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: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Reading station do trains from Windsor arrive at?
Trains from Windsor to Reading most often arrive at Reading. Some services arrive at Reading Green Park, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Reading arrival station.
ReadingReading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading from Reading city centre
Bus26, 90, 87 · 2m · $2 · 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 Green ParkReading RG2 6AU, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading Green Park from Reading city centre
Reading Green Park is 3 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainReading - Basingstoke · 6m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus9 · 39m · $2 · every ~3 min
Reading Green Park train station facilities and services
Reading Green Park has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading Green Park.
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 · $1 · every ~6 min
Bus15, 15a, 16, 17, 91, 85, 88, 93, 43 · 4m · $2 · 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.
Most popular train connections from Windsor
More options for your journey from Windsor to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Windsor
Most popular train connections to Reading
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