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Home > UK Train Journey > Manchester to Reading trains

Manchester to Reading train times

Travelling from Manchester to Reading, the fastest train takes 3h 13m with an average travel time of 3h 50m. 44 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 08:05 and the last at 22:04. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.

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Departs	Arrives	Status	Duration	Operator
08:05 Manchester Piccadilly	12:13 Reading	On time	4h 8m	Avanti West Coast	Find tickets
08:20 Manchester Piccadilly	12:26 Reading	On time	4h 6m	Avanti West Coast	Find tickets
08:26 Manchester Piccadilly	11:39 Reading	On time	3h 13m	CrossCountry	Find tickets
08:26 Manchester Piccadilly	12:53 Reading	On time	4h 27m	CrossCountry	Find tickets
09:20 Manchester Piccadilly	13:26 Reading	On time	4h 6m	Avanti West Coast	Find tickets

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Manchester to Reading Train journey information

Experience seamless journey planning from Manchester to Reading. Explore the earliest and latest train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and pricing options to optimise your trip.

First train	08:05
Last train	22:04
Departure station	Manchester
Arrival station	Reading
Distance	149 miles (240 km)
Journey time	From 3h 13m
Price	From £16.80
Train operators	Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway

CrossCountry: Manchester to Reading trains

Jump on board a Manchester to Reading train and marvel at the stunning views of the English countryside, North Wessex Downs and Chiltern Hills from the comfort of your seat. On average, the journey takes around 3 hours and 23 minutes.

CrossCountry services from Manchester Piccadilly to Reading run around 15 times a day. The train operator’s network is centred around Birmingham New Street, with services outside Greater London alighting at Aberdeen, Gloucester, Cardiff and other cities.

Departing from Manchester Piccadilly

CrossCountry trains to Reading depart from Manchester Piccadilly, located about a 15-minute walk away from the city centre. Two free city bus routes serve the station, and Metrolink trams stop underground to connect you to the city, suburbs in the Greater Manchester area and the airport.

As one of the busiest stations in the UK, there are many travel options available. Train operators include Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Northern and TransPennine Express. Major cities like Edinburgh, London, Bristol and Birmingham are just some of the destinations.

Main stops

Trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Reading stop at Crewe, Stafford, Birmingham New Street, Coventry, Banbury or other destinations, depending on the time, operators and routes.

Arriving at Reading

The Manchester Piccadilly to Reading train zips through to the town centre. Reading station is to the north near the River Thames and main shopping areas. There are convenient bus links taking you around Reading and across the Thames Valley.

Four train providers serve Reading station: CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, South Western Railway and the Elizabeth line. Trains from this station connect passengers to Cardiff, Basingstoke, London, Southampton, and other destinations.

Located to the west of London, Reading is best known for its music festival and university. The town centre has a wide selection of shops, independent boutiques and stellar food markets. Discover the historic red brick buildings, Abbey Quarter and the Victorian Forbury Gardens close to the station.

CrossCountry train classes

Standard Class: Provides comfortable seating, ample luggage space, and free WiFi. Catering is available for purchase on most services from 06:00 to 20:00, offering a variety of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, and snacks.
First Class: Offering comfortable seating with larger reclining seats and extra table space, plus free WiFi. Complimentary food and drink are available on most First Class services.

CrossCountry train travel advice

Luggage: One small bag, one medium bag and one large suitcase (not exceeding 90 x 70 x 30 centimetres) are allowed.
Bicycles: Bikes are permitted on board free of charge. Spaces are limited, so reservations are highly recommended. E-bikes shouldn’t exceed 250 watts.
Children: Children under 5 travel free, and the Family and Friends Railcard offers families with kids aged 5 to 15 a 33% discount on adult fares and 60% off children's fares.
Pets: Up to two pets are permitted on board, as long as they are kept in a carrier or on a lead at all times.
Passenger Assist: Provide assistance at stations and on trains, or during transfers, help with luggage, offer discounts for disabled passengers, and other services.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Manchester to Reading train travel guide

The train journey from Manchester to Reading combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Manchester, you can get to Reading in just 3h 13m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

1. How can I find cheap train tickets from Manchester to Reading?

Looking for discounted train tickets? Use Railcards, book in advance, and travel off-peak. Group travel with friends or family can also help you save. Frequent travellers should consider Season Tickets. TrainPal provides even more savings with split tickets and discount codes. Learn more about buying cheap train tickets in the UK.

2. How do I find the best train route from Manchester to Reading?

Utilise the TrainPal app or website to its fullest potential. Our Train Journey Planner is a top-notch online tool for planning your trips. Just enter your departure and arrival cities or stations. Then, review timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and check for food supplies or other amenities. Find the best train route from Manchester to Reading.

3. What is the best way to travel from Manchester to Reading by train?

The quickest train journey from Manchester to Reading takes 3h 13m . 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.

4. Are there direct trains from Manchester to Reading?

Yes, direct trains are available from Manchester to Reading . Check TrainPal for the latest train timetable, stops, and more information. Travel directly with no transfers for a seamless and easy journey.

5. What are the main train operating companies from Manchester to Reading?

The main train operating companies from Manchester to Reading include Avanti West Coast, a key provider on this route. For the latest and most accurate information on train operators, schedules, and services, head to TrainPal, which allows you to compare different train operators, check schedules, and book tickets all in one place. It's a great tool for finding the best deals and most convenient travel times!

6. How far in advance can I book UK train tickets?

Book cheap train tickets on the TrainPal 12 weeks in advance for the best discounts. Save more with Split Tickets or a Railcard, and explore more destinations across the UK for less!

Check timetables and during the journey

1. How do I find Manchester to Reading train timetables?

Manchester 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.

2. 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.

3. Do Manchester to Reading trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Manchester 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.

4. How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?

Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.

Other things you might be interested

1. Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors can benefit from various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard offers students up to 1/3 off most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy similar savings. Both Railcards can be purchased online or at train stations and are valid for one year, providing great value for frequent travellers

2. Can UK train 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 Train Tickets and Off-Peak train 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.

3. How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Without

Buy Senior Railcard

† Railcards offer discounted train tickets, with various types based on age and number of travellers. Enjoy up to 1/3 off for a cheaper journey. The actual price will vary based on factors such as the train service, time, and ticket availability.

Compensation and refunds

Trainpal makes it easy to handle travel changes, ticket refunds, and Delay Repay requests.

Change your itinerary or get a refund: Visit our Ticket Refunds and Changes page.
Check for train delays or interruptions: Visit our train Delays and Disruptions page or UK Rail Strike page.

Need help? Feel free to contact us!

How to buy cheap Manchester to Reading train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.

Split tickets

Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Book in advance

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Off-Peak train tickets

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

Use a Railcard

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Save with Season Tickets

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

Travel in groups

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.

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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.

** Save an average of 73% by combining Advance Ticket savings of 73% with an additional 30% through split tickets. These savings apply to Advance fares booked at least one week before travel, excluding Anytime fares purchased on the day of travel. Availability may vary by route and may not be combined with other offers.

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Manchester to Reading Trains From £16.80*

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