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London Paddington to Reading train ticket prices
£20.50
On Tue 31 Mar
London Paddington to Reading train timetable
Journey from London Paddington to Reading on the fastest train in 23m, usually 26m. Every day, 272 trains leave from London Paddington, starting at 00:01 and ending at 23:52. During Off-Peak Times from 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter and less crowded journey. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with us.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
16:36 London Paddington | 24m, Direct | 17:00 Reading | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
16:42 London Paddington | 51m, Direct | 17:33 Reading | Elizabeth line | Find tickets |
16:44 London Paddington | 2h 6m, Direct | 18:50 Reading | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
16:48 London Paddington | 23m, Direct | 17:11 Reading | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
16:48 London Paddington | 53m, Direct | 17:41 Reading | Elizabeth line | 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 272 trains per day, with the first train departing at 00:01 and the last train at 23:52.
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
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?
The average fare from London Paddington to Reading is approximately £20.50, but the final price fluctuates. The actual cost depends on your travel dates, how far in advance you book, and your ticket's flexibility. To see the current price for your journey, please search with your specific 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 fastest train journey time from London Paddington to Reading is 23m. Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.
Are there direct trains from London Paddington to Reading?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from London Paddington to Reading. TrainPal Train Journey Planner will assist you in finding the best train route. Enter the origin or destination places and other relevant details, then click "Search" to find the most suitable route.
Is it worth taking a train from London Paddington to Reading?
Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.
Check timetables and during the journey
How do I find London Paddington to Reading train timetables?
While London Paddington to Reading trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from London Paddington to Reading is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.
Do London Paddington to Reading trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from London Paddington to Reading are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company
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?
Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by 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?
Get easy and quick access to live updates and notifications via the TrainPal app. If your phone is enabled to receive messages from us, you'll receive notifications about train cancellations on your screen as soon as you pick up your phone
Which train companies operate the London Paddington to Reading route?
The train from London Paddington to Reading is operated by Elizabeth line. 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
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
Children under 5 usually travel free. 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
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
All operators offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities or additional needs. This should be booked in advance to guarantee 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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