Manchester to Reading Trains From £46.40*

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.