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Gatwick Airport to Reading train times and prices
* Note: Lowest prices are based on an analysis of recent historical pricing data. Live fares fluctuate based on demand and how far in advance you book.
7-day train ticket price trend
£16.37
On Thu 22
Live timetable and departures
Travelling from Gatwick Airport to Reading, the fastest train takes 1h 20m with an average travel time of 1h 40m. 115 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 00:42 and the last at 22:32. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
15:06 Gatwick Airport | 1h 40m, 2 change | 16:46 Reading | Elizabeth line | Find tickets |
15:16 Gatwick Airport | 1h 37m, 2 change | 16:53 Reading | Elizabeth line | Find tickets |
15:29 Gatwick Airport | 1h 34m, Direct | 17:03 Reading | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
15:36 Gatwick Airport | 1h 35m, 2 change | 17:11 Reading | Elizabeth line | Find tickets |
15:46 Gatwick Airport | 1h 37m, 2 change | 17:23 Reading | Elizabeth line | Find tickets |
Compare train operators from Gatwick Airport to Reading
- Great Western Railway
- Thameslink
- Elizabeth line
First Class
Standard
Essential onboard policies
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Luggage
- Most UK train operators allow passengers to bring a reasonable amount of luggage free of charge.
- This is commonly considered three items per passenger, typically 2 larger bags and 1 smaller bag. Larger items cover suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
- Bags go in overhead racks, under seats, or in designated floor-level luggage stacks.
- Occasionally, some providers have stricter policies, such as Lumo, which enforces a limit of 1 medium suitcase and 1 small under-seat bag per person.
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Bicycle
- Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed.
- Bike reservations are required on some services and are usually free.
- Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes.
- Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted.
- We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.
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Children
- Children under 5 usually travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger.
- Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
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Pets
- Each provider generally allows up to two animals per passenger free of charge, but individual operators can have additional restrictions.
- Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier.
- Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
- Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange free assistance with their train operator.
- This includes help at the station, boarding and leaving the train, and making connections. Assistance can also include ramps for wheelchair users and help finding accessible facilities or the correct platform.
- Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets are available on many trains, although facilities vary by service.
- To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
Departing from Gatwick Airport
Address:
South Terminal, Gatwick Airport, West Sussex, RH6 0RD, United Kingdom
Public Transport Links:
Bus: Local Metrobus routes operate to/from towns and villages around Gatwick Airport, such as Crawley, Redhill and Horsham. Buses stop on either side of the A23 (connected by a pedestrian walkway) and by the Lower Forecourt.
Coach: There are coach stops (numbered 1-5) by the Lower Forecourt, offering access to National Express services to numerous cities and airports.
Taxi pick-up and drop-off: A taxi rank is available outside the station by the Upper Forecourt.
Platforms:
Seven platforms for local, terminating and regional services operated by Gatwick Express, Thameslink, Southern and Great Western Railway (GWR). Destinations include London, Reading, Eastbourne and Peterborough.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Gatwick Airport station is directly connected to the South Terminal, making transfers with luggage smooth and easy. If you’re using the North Terminal, the free 24-hour monorail shuttle takes just two minutes to reach the station. To avoid peak-hour crowds on the main concourse, follow the signs to the upper-level walkways for a quicker route to platform lifts and ticket barriers."
FAQs about Gatwick Airport Station
Can you use contactless at Gatwick Airport station?
Yes, contactless pay-as-you-go is accepted on Gatwick Express, Southern and Thameslink services between London and Gatwick Airport station.
Does Gatwick Airport station have a ticket office?
Yes, the ticket office at Gatwick Airport station is open 24 hours.
Is Gatwick Airport station in the North or South terminal?
Gatwick Airport station is in the South Terminal. A free 24-hour shuttle runs between the North and South terminals, taking only two minutes.
What shops are at Gatwick Airport train station?
There is a Hi Coffee Express between platforms 1 and 2. Passengers can also grab drinks and a bite from M&S or Black Sheep Coffee close to the station entrance.
Are there toilets at Gatwick Airport station?
Yes, male, female and accessible toilets are located on platforms 1 and 2.
Arriving in Reading
Top Things to Do:
Explore Reading Abbey Ruins and discover the remains of a medieval royal monastery founded by Henry I.
Visit Reading Museum to see its full-size Victorian replica of the famous Bayeux Tapestry.
Stroll along the River Thames for peaceful waterside walks and picturesque views around Caversham.
Discover Basildon Park, a majestic Georgian mansion surrounded by beautiful Berkshire countryside.
Popular Areas in Reading:
Broad Street, Forbury Gardens, Kennet and Avon Canal, Prospect Park, The Oracle, Reading Town Centre
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Visiting Reading: Reading is surprisingly easy to explore on foot, particularly around the town centre and Abbey Quarter. If you're visiting during August, a very useful tip is to check whether your trip coincides with Reading Festival, as the town can become considerably busier and transport arrangements may change. For something different in the area, definitely take a walk towards Caversham and follow the Thames Path for a quieter side of Reading away from the main shopping streets."
FAQ
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How much is a train from Gatwick Airport to Reading?
Tickets from Gatwick Airport to Reading typically cost £37.92, but can be as cheap as £16.37 when booked in advance. Other factors that may affect the ticket price include time of day and ticket type, so be sure to research before purchasing.
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How long is the train from Gatwick Airport to Reading?
The journey should take, on average, 1h 40m, though it can be as quick as 1h 20m when booking specific services. Be sure to click the "Fastest" tab when searching your route to find out.
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Is there a direct train from Gatwick Airport to Reading?
Yes, there is a direct train between Gatwick Airport and Reading. However, you will find indirect services listed too, including where you will have to make a changeover. Check each listing for either ‘direct’ or how many stops are required when purchasing your ticket.
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How far in advance can I book my train from Gatwick Airport to Reading?
You can typically book tickets from Gatwick Airport to Reading up to 12 weeks before departure.
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Do Gatwick Airport to Reading trains offer Wi-Fi?
Yes, most trains on the route from Gatwick Airport to Reading are equipped with Wi-Fi, as well as power sockets at your seat. However, please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train compan.
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How far is Gatwick Airport from Reading?
The distance between Gatwick Airport and Reading is approximately 41 miles (67km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
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How frequent are trains from Gatwick Airport to Reading?
There is 115 train running from Gatwick Airport to Reading per day. Please note that trains run more regularly during peak hours.
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How can I buy the cheapest tickets from Gatwick Airport to Reading?
To get the cheapest ticket, we recommend buying in advance, as early as 12 weeks before departure. We'd also strongly suggest travelling during off-peak hours where possible and getting a Railcard, which typically offers ⅓ off your ticket cost and is available to most travellers!
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How do I check if my train is delayed or cancelled?
Keep a close eye on your journey via the TrainPal app, which offers real-time information on train status and notifications of any train strikes that will impact you.
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Can my tickets be refunded or changed?
In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime and Off-Peak tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.
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* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.
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