Reading to Bournemouth train with South Western Railway

Tue, Sep 08
+ Add return
CrossCountry
South Western Railway
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
South Western Railway
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Bournemouth

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08

Cheapest price on Sep 08

$84

Average ticket price on Sep 08

$84

Fastest journey on Sep 08

1 h 45 m

Average journey duration on Sep 08

1 h 52 m

Trains on Sep 08

2

Distance

104 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Reading to Bournemouth will cost around $84 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $84.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Reading to Bournemouth without transferring at least once.

  • CrossCountryG00997+Great Western RailwayC48469
    8:28 AM1h45
    Reading West (RDW)
    10:13 AMBournemouth station (BMH)
    $841One-way
    1 transfer
  • South Western RailwayL80214+Great Western RailwayC48467
    8:03 AM1h59
    Reading West (RDW)
    10:02 AMBournemouth station (BMH)
    $841One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Reading to Bournemouth

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Bournemouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $44 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 2m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $44, while a bus costs an average of $86.

Distance: 64 miles (104 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$44

Average price

Cheapest

$86

Average price

$28

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 2m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 32m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 6m

Average total duration

2h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 34m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

South Western Railway

Most popular train company

National Express

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 Reading to Bournemouth is a train with an average price of $44.

This is compared to other travel options from Reading to Bournemouth:

A train is $42 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Reading to Bournemouth costing on average $86.

The fastest way to travel from Reading to Bournemouth is by train with an average journey time of 1h 32m.

Other travel options to Bournemouth take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 36m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Bournemouth including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Bournemouth 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 2m sooner (1h 32m by train vs 1h 34m by car). Tickets start at around $44 compared to roughly $28 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 CrossCountry, Cross Country.

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

Reading to Bournemouth train times

The table below shows live departures for Reading to Bournemouth trains for today, Monday, September 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountry4:51 PM Reading
1h23
6:14 PM Bournemouth0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, September 8
Great Western RailwayC48467+South Western RailwayL802148:03 AM Reading West (RDW)
1h59
10:02 AM Bournemouth station (BMH)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayC48469+CrossCountryG009978:28 AM Reading West (RDW)
1h45
10:13 AM Bournemouth station (BMH)1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Reading to Bournemouth 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.

Tue
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14

Why should you book Reading to Bournemouth trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as South Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more offer trains services from Reading to Bournemouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Bournemouth.

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, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Bournemouth.
  • 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 Reading to Bournemouth.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Reading to Bournemouth

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Reading to Bournemouth run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 if you book in advance.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:09, the last at 23:38. The fastest train covers the 64 miles (104 km) distance in 1h 19m.

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
64 miles (104 km)
Average train duration
1h 32m
Cheapest ticket price
$12
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
1h 19m
First train
5:09 AM
Last train
11:38 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Tue
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

Train companies: South Western Railway, CrossCountry from Reading to Bournemouth trainsSouth Western Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Reading and Bournemouth from $12. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
1h 25m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
$15
South Western Railway frequency
3 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

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
1h 19m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$12
CrossCountry frequency
3 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

Complete guide to Bournemouth

Things to do in Bournemouth

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

  • Must visit

Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum

Victorian villa museum with local history, archaeology, and rotating exhibitions in one of Bournemouth’s most important heritage buildings.

  • Recommended

Red House Museum and Gardens

Volunteer-run local museum covering Christchurch history, archaeology, and community life in a characterful period setting.

  • Recommended

Bournemouth Aviation Museum

Specialist aviation museum at Bournemouth Airport displaying historic aircraft, cockpits, and memorabilia for enthusiasts and families.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for a UK seaside town: hotels peak in summer, dining is mid-priced, and local buses are fairly affordable for visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if not already added. Round up or add a little for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips, but spare change is appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Reading to Bournemouth

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Reading to Bournemouth can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $12, while the average price is around $44.
The train from Reading to Bournemouth takes 1h 19m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Reading to Bournemouth is 64 miles (104 km).
The first train from Reading to Bournemouth leaves at 5:09 AM.
The last train from Reading to Bournemouth leaves at 11:38 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Reading to Bournemouth.
Yes, there is a direct train from Reading to Bournemouth. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Bournemouth.
The train station in Reading that goes to Bournemouth is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Bournemouth station (BMH).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Bournemouth is by train, with a cost of around $12.
The train journey from Reading to Bournemouth offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through picturesque landscapes, including the rolling hills and greenery of the South Downs and charming towns like Basingstoke and Winchester.
Yes, a day trip from Reading to Bournemouth is feasible. The journey takes 1h 19m, covering 64 miles (104 km), with a frequency of 7 trains per day.
In Bournemouth, you can explore the Oceanarium to discover marine life, enjoy the floral displays and events at Lower Gardens, or visit Boscombe Chine Gardens for mini-golf and water play. Nature enthusiasts can head to Hengistbury Head for hiking and birdwatching. For aviation history, the Bournemouth Aviation Museum offers an interactive experience. Relax on the sandy expanses of Bournemouth Beach, or stroll along the Victorian-era Bournemouth Pier for entertainment and dining. The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum houses a diverse art collection, while Bournemouth Gardens provide a picturesque setting for walks and picnics. Don't miss St. Peter's Church, with its stunning architecture and the resting place of Mary Shelley.
To fully enjoy Bournemouth's attractions, beaches, and nearby areas, 2 to 3 days are typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Bournemouth.
Since neither Reading nor Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth include Southampton, New Milton, Brockenhurst, Portsmouth, Fareham.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like beaches and nightlife spots. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, keep valuables secure, and stay vigilant in busy public places to 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 Reading to Bournemouth

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

Departure train stations in Reading
Arrival train stations in Bournemouth

Which Reading station do trains to Bournemouth leave from?

Trains from Reading to Bournemouth leave from Reading. The station is from Reading city centre at Reading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ.
ReadingReading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ+44 3451652030ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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 WestReading West station, Oxford Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 7PYParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
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.

TilehurstTilehurst station, Oxford Road, Tilehurst, Berkshire, RG31 6TH+44 3451652030WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Tilehurst from Reading city centre

Tilehurst is 4 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainLondon Paddington - Didcot Parkway, Reading - Didcot Parkway · 3m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus16, 85, 88, 18, 93, 43 · 16m · $2 · every ~18 min
16, 85, 88, 18, 93, 43 · 19m · $2 · every ~18 min

Tilehurst train station facilities and services

Tilehurst has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Tilehurst.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Tilehurst.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Tilehurst.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Tilehurst: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Tilehurst: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Tilehurst: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step free Category C - This station does not have step free access to operational platforms, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible Taxis available at this station Please call our free help line for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: No, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

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