No booking fees on the app
Best Price Promise
Delay Repay
24/7 customer support
Oxford to Reading train ticket prices
€5.04
On Wed 12 Aug
Oxford to Reading train timetable
From Oxford to Reading, take the fastest train in 21m, typically 25m. Daily, 70 trains depart from Oxford, with the first at 00:11 and the last at 23:15. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
15:01 Oxford | 22m, Direct | 15:23 Reading | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
15:16 Oxford | 26m, Direct | 15:42 Reading | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
15:31 Oxford | 27m, Direct | 15:58 Reading | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
15:35 Oxford | 36m, 1 change | 16:11 Reading | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
16:00 Oxford | 22m, Direct | 16:22 Reading | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
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.
CrossCountry vs Great Western Railway: Which should you choose?
The quick hop from Oxford to Reading is simple by rail, thanks to the frequent and direct train services. Check your options below.
Train operators | Avg. duration | Departure station | Best for | Feature services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Great Western Railway (GWR) | 25m | Oxford | Budget, speed, First Class seating | Free Wi-Fi, generous luggage allowance, First Class |
CrossCountry | 27m | Oxford | Direct trains, trolley service | First Class upgrade option, trolley service, free Wi-Fi |
- Great Western Railway (GWR) has some of the fastest services from Oxford to Reading, which run up to three times an hour. Fares are typically the cheapest, too.
- CrossCountry trains depart around twice every hour and typically don’t have any stops in between. The majority of the operator’s services include a catering trolley, but given the short journey time, it may be best to get refreshments at the station.
Train travel from Oxford to Reading
Journey from the City of Dreaming Spires to Berkshire’s riverside town on a speedy Oxford to Reading train. The 24 miles (39 kilometres) fly by, getting you to the well-connected arrival station in under half an hour. Take the hassle out of travel with our recommendations.
Departure from Oxford
Only a 15-minute walk from the city centre and famous university colleges, Oxford station is easily accessible by public transport. Several Stagecoach, Oxford Bus Company and even City Sightseeing buses stop directly in front of the station.
- Platform guide: Oxford is a four-platform station. The concourse and platforms are connected via a footbridge and lifts. Trains to Reading generally call at platform 3. Give yourself enough time to get to the right platform.
- Snacks for the journey: Both GWR and CrossCountry offer catering on board (as well as complimentary refreshments for Oxford to Reading First Class ticket holders). However, given the short journey time, it may not be possible to get served before arriving at Reading. To avoid disappointment, pick up something from the station, whether it’s a pastry from Greggs or a coffee and sandwich from Pret.
On board trains from Oxford to Reading
The windows on the Oxford to Reading train open out to charming fields, streams and woodland across the county and Thames Valley.
- Waterside scenery: Book a seat on the right facing the front of the train for views of the Radley Lakes and glimpses of the River Thames. The relaxed journey glides through picturesque towns and natural landscapes.
- Convenient amenities: Stay connected on the move with free Wi-Fi access and never run out of battery no matter which operator you choose. Plug sockets can be found by your seat. Refreshments are available to purchase and are complimentary in First Class, but you should note that you may not be served during the short journey time.
Arriving at Reading
Step off the train at Reading station, a well-connected railway hub in the heart of the town. Navigate the exit like a local.
- Station Hill exit: Reading station’s main exit is the quickest way to the town centre and local offices.
- Forbury Road exit: Most Reading Buses routes serving the station stop nearby. You can also pick up or drop off your bike at the bicycle parking area.
- Apex Plaza exit: The revamped office space is seamlessly linked to the station via a pedestrian walkway.
- Car park exit: On the other side of the footbridge, you’ll find the station car park, more bike spaces and the taxi rank.
- Transport connections: Reading is a very walkable town, but if you’ve got bulky luggage or want a faster way to move around, you can hop on buses on either side of the station. Get a cab on the north side by the station’s car park.
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
How much does it cost for a train from Oxford to Reading?
The average fare from Oxford to Reading is approximately €5.04, 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 Oxford to Reading by train?
What is the fastest train from Oxford to Reading?
The fastest train journey time from Oxford to Reading is 21m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.
Are there direct trains from Oxford to Reading?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Oxford 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 Oxford to Reading?
Yes, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.
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
How do I find Oxford to Reading train timetables?
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?
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 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?
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?
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 Oxford to Reading route is operated by CrossCountry. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the results.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
-
Luggage
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
-
Bicycle
Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted. We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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 Oxford to Reading train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
Your plans have changed?
Your train was disrupted?
More train routes
* 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.
New user welcome pack