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Oxford to Reading train ticket prices

Travelling from Oxford to Reading by train? Find fares from as low as €9.09. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest

€9.09󰄽

On Mon 18 May

  • €12.13󰄽
    Wed13 May
  • €12.25󰄽
    Thu14 May
  • €10.55󰄽
    Sat16 May
  • Mon18 May

Oxford to Reading train timetable

The journey from Oxford to Reading on the fastest train in 21m, usually 25m. Each day, 69 trains leave from Oxford, starting at 00:10 and ending at 23:15. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

12:00

Oxford
23m, Direct

12:23

Reading
Great Western Railway
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12:15

Oxford
22m, Direct

12:37

Reading
CrossCountry
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12:32

Oxford
27m, Direct

12:59

Reading
Great Western Railway
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12:42

Oxford
27m, Direct

13:09

Reading
CrossCountry
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13:00

Oxford
24m, Direct

13:24

Reading
Great Western Railway
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Oxford to Reading train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Oxford 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.

Price
From €9.09
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
24 miles (39km)
Journey time
21m
First train
00:10
Last train
23:15
Frequency
69

Great Western Railway: Oxford to Reading trains

Travel from the historic spires of Oxford to Reading’s vibrant riverside in under 30 minutes with a direct Great Western Railway train. Glide through the fields, woodlands and historic villages of the Thames Valley, catching glimpses of the Chiltern Hills before arriving in Reading.
Great Western Railway connects Oxford, Reading and the Thames Valley with destinations all across South Wales, the South West and the Cotswolds, including London Paddington, Bristol, Exeter and Penzance.

Departing from Oxford

Just a 15-minute walk from the historic heart of Oxford and its world-famous university, Oxford railway station is easy to reach on foot and well served by local transport with nearby bus stops, convenient drop-off points and taxi ranks right outside the station entrance.
Managed by Great Western Railway, Oxford station offers fast and frequent services to London Paddington, London Marylebone, Reading, Worcester and Banbury as well as CrossCountry trains connecting to Manchester, Birmingham and the south coast.

Main stops

While CrossCountry trains run direct, non-stop services from Oxford to Reading, Great Western Railway trains call at Didcot Parkway, giving you the chance to enjoy views of the Thames Valley along the way.

Arriving at Reading

Located on Station Road in the heart of town, Reading station is easily accessible with local buses, taxis, and convenient car pick-up points right outside. As the western terminus of the Elizabeth Line, it also offers direct links into London, while services from Great Western Railway, South Western Railway, CrossCountry and the North Downs Line provide a variety of connections across the South West, Wales and the Midlands.
Operated by Network Rail, Reading station provides easy onward travel to major destinations including London Paddington, Oxford, Bristol, Cardiff and Birmingham. Both Heathrow and Gatwick airports are also within easy reach thanks to direct rail services and the RailAir coach.
Beyond the station, Reading is a thriving hub where historic landmarks like the Abbey Ruins and Forbury Gardens sit alongside The Oracle shopping centre, buzzing riverside bars, and the world-famous Reading Festival. 

Great Western Railway train classes 

  • Standard Class: Relax on your Oxford to Reading journey with Great Western Railway, and enjoy free Wi-Fi and generous seating. On some services, you can also order freshly prepared food and drink from the onboard café-bar.
  • First Class: Travel from Oxford to Reading First Class and relax with reclining seats, wider legroom, fast Wi-Fi, and at-table plug and USB sockets. Complimentary drinks and snacks are also available on some services.

Great Western Railway train travel advice

Heading from Oxford to Reading? Here’s a handy guide to make your trip as comfortable and convenient as possible, covering everything from luggage and bikes to pets, kids, and accessibility.
  • Luggage: You can bring up to three items of luggage onboard Great Western Railway services free of charge – from large suitcases to small bags. Larger items should be stowed in racks or at the carriage ends to avoid blocking aisles and doorways.
  • Bicycles: Space for bicycles is limited, and both standard bikes and e-bikes require a free reservation – booking in advance is recommended. Folding bikes are welcome onboard all services, but e-scooters are not permitted.
  • Children: Under-fives can travel for free, while children aged 5-15 are eligible to pay half-price on standard fares. Teens can also unlock savings of 50% with a 16-17 Saver railcard.
  • Pets: Passengers may bring up to two pets on board Great Western Railway services at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead, while smaller animals should be transported securely in a carrier. Pets are not allowed on seats.
  • Passenger Assist: Help with boarding, handling luggage or navigating stations can be booked in advance via Passenger Assist, or arranged on the day with station staff.

CrossCountry: Oxford to Reading trains

The most affordable way to travel from Oxford to Reading is by direct CrossCountry train, taking you straight from one university city to another in around 25 minutes with no stops.
Watch the scenery unfold as you travel from Oxford’s dreaming spires and riverside meadows, through open farmland and gentle hills, before arriving into bustling Reading.
Stretching all the way from Cornwall in the south to Scotland in the north, CrossCountry links Oxford and Reading with one of Britain’s most extensive long-distance rail networks. With Birmingham as its hub, CrossCountry services connect directly to major cities including Manchester, Bristol, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Leeds.

CrossCountry train classes

  • Standard Class: Settle into CrossCountry’s Standard Class and enjoy roomy carriages, free Wi-Fi and accessible seating, with onboard catering available on many routes.
  • First Class: Travel from Oxford to Reading First Class and enjoy reclining seats, generous legroom, and tables with charging points – perfect for working, studying and unwinding. Complimentary snacks and drinks are also available on selected services.

CrossCountry train travel advice

Planning your train journey from Oxford to Reading? Here’s a quick guide to make your trip comfortable and hassle-free, covering everything from luggage, bikes and kids to pets and accessibility support.
  • Luggage: Storage is limited, so CrossCountry recommends travelling light, ideally with just one medium-sized bag. On Voyager services, larger items can be stowed in the racks located in Coaches D and J.
  • Bicycles: Both standard bikes and e-bikes are welcome onboard CrossCountry services with a free reservation, while folding bikes can be brought onboard any service as hand luggage. E-scooters are not permitted.
  • Children: Under-fives ride for free, while children aged 5-15 are eligible to receive 50% off most fares. Families can save even more with a Family & Friends railcard, offering a third off adult fares and 60% off children’s tickets.
  • Pets: Passengers may bring up to two pets onboard free of charge. Dogs should be kept on a lead or transported in a carrier, and all animals should stay off seats.
  • Passenger Assist: Assistance with boarding, handling luggage, navigating stations or reserving wheelchair spaces can be booked in advance via Passenger Assist, or requested on the day at staffed stations.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Oxford to Reading train travel guide

The train journey from Oxford to Reading combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Oxford, you can get to Reading in just 21m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Oxford to Reading?

The average ticket fare from Oxford to Reading is about €9.09, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.

What is the best way to travel from Oxford to Reading by train?

Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare Oxford to Reading train prices for the best deals and book in advance for discounts. The TrainPal app offers real-time updates and ticket booking options. Explore the TrainPal app and start planning your journey!

What is the fastest train from Oxford to Reading?

The quickest train journey from Oxford to Reading takes 21m . 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 Oxford to Reading?

No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Oxford 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 Oxford 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?

You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

Are Oxford to Reading trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

Oxford 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?

It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.

Do Oxford to Reading trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from Oxford 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?

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.

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

Other things you might be interested

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

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors have access to various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard allows students to save up to 1/3 on most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy comparable savings. Both types of Railcards are available for purchase online or at train stations and are valid for one year, making them a valuable option for frequent travellers.

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, the refund and exchange policies for train tickets vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. Advance Tickets are usually non-refundable but can sometimes be exchanged for a fee. Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets offer more generous refund and exchange options. Always check the terms and conditions of your ticket or visit UK train ticket types for specific details.

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 Oxford to Reading route?

The train from Oxford to Reading is operated by CrossCountry. 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

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Passenger assistance

    Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.

How to buy cheap Oxford to Reading train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.
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Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

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

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

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

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

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

Your plans have changed?

Step-by-step instructions for changing your journey or requesting a refund are available on our ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

For information on claiming Delay Repay compensation due to a delayed, cancelled, or strike-affected service, consult our delays and disruptions page or our UK rail strike page. These pages also provide live service updates.

* 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.