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London Paddington to Reading train ticket prices
£20.50
On Sat 14 Feb
London Paddington to Reading train timetable
From London Paddington to Reading, take the fastest train in 23m, typically 52m. Daily, 155 trains depart from London Paddington, with the first at 00:34 and the last at 23:54. During Off-Peak times starting at 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter space with fewer people. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. We save you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
21:08 London Paddington | 36m, Direct | 21:44 Reading | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
21:09 London Paddington | 2h 2m, Direct | 23:11 Reading | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
21:17 London Paddington | 53m, Direct | 22:10 Reading | Elizabeth line | Find tickets |
21:30 London Paddington | 23m, Direct | 21:53 Reading | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
21:38 London Paddington | 36m, Direct | 22:14 Reading | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
London Paddington to Reading train tickets and times
Plan your journey from London Paddington to Reading with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.
Direct train route from London Paddington to Reading
Planning a trip from London Paddington to Reading using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. You will find the average journey duration of 23m, covering a distance of 35 miles (56km). There are 155 trains per day, with the first train departing at 00:34 and the last train at 23:54.
Departing from London Paddington
The fastest train from London Paddington to Reading departs from London Paddington, a primary railway and London Underground station complex located at Praed Street, Paddington, London W2 1HQ.
Main operators include Great Western Railway, Elizabeth Line, and Heathrow Express. The station serves as a key hub for transport connections, including services to Heathrow Airport and various destinations in the west of England and Wales, such as Bristol Temple Meads, Exeter St Davids, and Oxford.
London Paddington also provides direct access to the Bakerloo, Circle, District, and Hammersmith & City lines of the London Underground.
Main stops
The fastest train travels directly without stops. The slower train stops at Ealing Broadway, West Drayton, Slough, and Burnham (Buckinghamshire).
Stops may vary based on the schedule, train operators, and routes. Always check the latest train schedules for accurate information.
Arriving at Reading
The fastest trains from London Paddington to Reading arrive at Reading railway station, a major transport hub in Berkshire. Located on the northern edge of the town centre, near retail areas and the River Thames, it offers convenient access to trains, taxis, and buses.
Reading provides connections to London, Oxford, Bristol, Birmingham, and Cardiff. Main operators include Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway, and the Elizabeth Line.
While in Reading, you can explore attractions such as Reading Museum, The Hexagon, and Caversham Court, or participate in activities like Bubble Football and the Operation City Quest Scavenger Hunt.
GWR trains from London Paddington to Reading
Great Western Railway trains from London Paddington to Reading take around 30 minutes. This scenic route is surrounded by idyllic parks and countryside, making it a pleasant journey.
The Great Western Railway (GWR) connects London to Bristol, Cardiff, and Exeter. With a legacy of over 180 years, GWR is known for its exceptional service and comfort. Travel seamlessly across South West England and Wales with this iconic British railway company.
Great Western Railway Standard Class
Great Western Railway Standard Class offers free WiFi, ensuring a comfortable and connected journey. Enjoy seamless travel with Great Western Railway.
Great Western Railway First Class
Offers mobile device charging, live TV, train information, and access for assistance dogs (other well-trained dogs are also welcome).
Travel with Great Western Railway
We offer vital trip details for you, including baggage limits, bike allowances, travelling with children and pets, and assistance services.
- Luggage: You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
- Bicycles: You can reserve a seat before your train arrives, but e-scooters are not allowed on Great Western Railway trains.
- Children: Children aged 5–15 travel at half fare, while up to two children under five can travel for free.
- Pets: Each customer can bring two small pets for free. Dogs must be on a lead or in a rigid carrier.
- Passenger Assist: Offering help to navigate the station, board or alight, and guide you to your next train or the exit.
Elizabeth Line trains from London Paddington to Reading
Elizabeth Line trains from London Paddington to Reading take around 58 minutes. This route, flanked by historic sites, rivers, and canals, offers a delightful and scenic journey.
The Elizabeth Line, running on an east-west axis across the London region, has branches terminating at Abbey Wood and Shenfield in the east. This relatively new railway service in London is named in honour of Queen Elizabeth II and is operated by Transport for London (TfL).
Elizabeth Line Standard Class
Elizabeth Line Standard Class offers free WiFi, air conditioning, and energy-efficient lighting, ensuring a comfortable and connected journey.
Travel with Elizabeth Line
You can get essential trip information, including baggage limits, bike allowances, and travelling with children and pets.
- Luggage: You can bring up to three pieces of luggage, each weighing up to 7 kilograms and measuring up to 56 x 36 x 23 cm.
- Bicycles: Non-folded cycles are permitted on the Elizabeth Line during weekdays, excluding peak hours. They are allowed anytime on weekends and bank holidays.
- Children: Children under 5 travel free with a ticketed adult. Up to 4 children aged 5-10 travel free with an adult.
- Pets: Assistance dogs and controlled animals on a lead or in a container are allowed on the Elizabeth Line, but not on seats.
- Passenger Assist: Services for passengers with special needs include assistance, help boarding, reserving wheelchair spaces, detailed rail info, and pet assistance.
London Paddington to Reading train travel guide
Travelling by train from London Paddington to Reading is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from London Paddington, you can reach Reading in just 23m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.

Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from London Paddington to Reading?
Ticket prices from London Paddington to Reading average around £20.50, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.
What is the best way to travel from London Paddington to Reading by train?
What is the fastest train from London Paddington to Reading?
The quickest train journey from London Paddington to Reading takes 23m . Utilise our Train Journey Planner to locate direct trains, minimise transfers, and compare travel times across various routes. Discover the most efficient way to travel with fewer stops for a smooth and seamless journey.
Are there direct trains from London Paddington to Reading?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from London Paddington to Reading. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.
Is it worth taking a train from London Paddington to Reading?
Yes, the train is always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
To get the best price on UK train tickets, it is essential to book as early as you can. Train operators generally release their cheapest Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of the travel date, making early booking the most effective way to secure a lower fare.

Check timetables and during the journey
Are London Paddington to Reading trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
London Paddington to Reading trains are generally punctual, but delays or disruptions can happen due to weather, strikes, and other factors. With Train Journey Planner, finding a train timetable for your trip is simple. Enter your departure and arrival stations to view a detailed schedule of available trains. Provide your travel details to find the best routes, connections, and train times.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed journey.
Do London Paddington to Reading trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the London Paddington to Reading route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.
How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?
Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific train operator.

Other things you might be interested
Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?
Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.
Which train companies operate the London Paddington to Reading route?
The train from London Paddington to Reading is operated by London Overground. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search results.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
Each passenger is permitted to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage at no extra cost. This can include a combination of items such as suitcases, backpacks, and satchels.
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Bicycle
You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.
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Children
Discounts are available for young travellers based on age: Travellers under 5 usually travel free, children aged 5–15 get a 50% discount, and 16 to 17-year-olds can use a 16-17 Saver Railcard to get 50% off.
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Pets
Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. 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
For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.
How to buy cheap London Paddington to Reading train tickets

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds

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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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