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London Paddington to Reading train ticket prices
£18.20
On Wed 24 Jun
London Paddington to Reading train timetable
From London Paddington to Reading, take the fastest train in 23m, typically 27m. Daily, 271 trains depart from London Paddington, with the first at 00:01 and the last at 23:52. 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 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
16:48 London Paddington | 23m, Direct | 17:11 Reading | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
16:48 London Paddington | 54m, Direct | 17:42 Reading | Elizabeth line | Find tickets |
16:50 London Paddington | 33m, Direct | 17:23 Reading | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
17:00 London Paddington | 23m, Direct | 17:23 Reading | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
17:03 London Paddington | 23m, Direct | 17:26 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.
Great Western Railway vs Elizabeth Line: Which is faster from London Paddington to Reading?
Taking the train from London Paddington to Reading is an efficient way to head west out of the capital. Choose between Great Western Railway and Elizabeth Line, weighing up factors like speed and cost. Whether you’re looking for the cheapest ticket or fastest time, we recommend the following options.
Train operators | Avg. duration | Departure station | Best for | Feature services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Great Western Railway | 23 mins | London Paddington | Business, Speed & First Class | First Class lounge experience, fastest direct route. |
Elizabeth Line | 55 mins | London Paddington | Modern Travel, Cheapest Capped Fares | Usually the cheapest fares. |
Train travel from London Paddington to Reading
London Paddington: Getting to the Platform
Forever known for its famous bear, you’ll set off from Britain’s third-busiest station. London Paddington is a great station to spend a comfortable time waiting for a train. Paddington also boasts world-leading accessibility features. Here’s what you need to know to get your journey started in style.
- On the Tube: Wherever you’re coming from in the capital, London Paddington is easy to reach on the London Underground. Board the Bakerloo Line from Regent’s Park or Charing Cross. If you’re in the east, you might hop on the Hammersmith & City, or Elizabeth lines. The District and Circle lines both take passengers directly to London Paddington too.
- A relaxing wait: Sit back and enjoy a comfortable wait for your train at London Paddington. Standard Class passengers can find a place to rest in ample seating areas, or visit the Paddington Bear statue for a fun selfie. If you’re travelling First Class, relax in premium comfort in London Paddington’s Lounge.
- Coffee stop: Get your caffeine hit before you board from a choice of drinks and snack destinations at London Paddington. If you’re looking for specialty lattes, try Caffe Nero in the middle of the station concourse. Alternatively, buy a nourishing meal at LEON, or pick up a pack of Percy Pig sweets from M&S.
Onboard trains from London Paddington to Reading
Your trip from London Paddington to Reading may be short, but you’ll pass green parks, iconic towns, reservoirs, quaint villages, and golf courses. Here’s what to look out for.
- The View Alert: For the greatest variety of landscapes, choose a seat on the Right-Hand Side of the carriage (facing West).
- Top attractions on the route: Between London and Reading, green spaces next to the railway abound. Look out for Herschel Park near Slough, all the way through to Dinton Pastures Country Park, and Winnersh Meadows just outside Reading.
Arriving at Reading
Step off the train and you’re already in the heart of Reading, nestled between the River Thames to the north and Reading Museum to the south.
- Arrival in Reading: A large station with more than a dozen platforms, you’ll find plenty to do before you get far! Head to station pub The Three Guineas in the main concourse for a traditional pub lunch.
- Getting out: Exit south onto Station Hill, where you’ll be well placed to reach top attractions like Reading Abbey Ruins in under 10 minutes. As a very walkable city, you can also head north into the Thames Quarter, where you can get to Kings Meadow, a spacious park alongside the River Thames.
- Buses from Reading Station: From the train station, board local buses operated by Reading Buses, Carousel Buses, Thames Travel, or RedRose. Fast connections around Reading and to surrounding villages await for a fully integrated travel experience.
London Paddington to Reading train travel guide
The train journey from London Paddington to Reading combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from London Paddington, you can get to Reading in just 23m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.
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 £18.20, 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.
How do I find the best train route from London Paddington to Reading?
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 cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.
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?
Transferring between train stations in the UK can be effortless with some planning. If your travel requires a transfer, review your ticket and journey details for specific transfer instructions. Major stations typically feature clear signage and helpful staff. Additionally, TrainPal Train Journey Planner offers comprehensive transfer details.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
While Standard Class offers a good travel experience, First Class provides an upgrade in comfort and service. This typically includes enhanced amenities like complimentary food and drinks, though the specific offerings depend on the 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 route from London Paddington to Reading is operated by Elizabeth line. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
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Bicycle
A free reservation is required for bikes on most journeys due to limited space. While standard bicycles and folding bikes are widely permitted, some operators have provisions for e-bikes and tandems. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bike trailers are not allowed. As policies vary, it is essential to consult your specific train operator's website for their definitive cycle rules before you travel.
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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
You are welcome to bring up to 2 pets with you at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead and other animals in a suitable carrier. Please note that for the comfort of all passengers, pets are not allowed 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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