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Reading to Birmingham New Street train ticket prices
€19.87
On Tue 23 Jun
Reading to Birmingham New Street train timetable
The journey from Reading to Birmingham New Street on the fastest train in 1h 27m, usually 2h 28m. Each day, 76 trains leave from Reading, starting at 00:05 and ending at 23:32. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
17:15 Reading | 1h 36m, Direct | 18:51 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
17:45 Reading | 1h 33m, Direct | 19:18 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
18:15 Reading | 1h 36m, Direct | 19:51 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
18:45 Reading | 1h 33m, Direct | 20:18 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
19:01 Reading | 2h 47m, 1 change | 21:48 Birmingham New Street | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
Reading to Birmingham New Street train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Reading to Birmingham New Street 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: Reading to Birmingham New Street trains
Travel from Reading to Birmingham New Street in comfort and style with a direct CrossCountry train in just 1 hour and 36 minutes.
Bypassing the capital completely, you can just sit back and enjoy the views, as you travel through the rolling hills of the Chilterns and the historic towns of Oxfordshire and Warwickshire.
Departing from Reading station
Centrally located on Station Road, Reading station is easily accessible by bus, taxi and car. And with over 1,300 parking spaces, 344 cycle stands, and two taxi ranks, it’s ideal for both commuters and long-distance travellers.
Main stops
Arriving at Birmingham New Street
The nearby canal network, dotted with lively bars and cafés, also provides a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Or for an even sweeter escape, head out of the city and indulge in a visit to Cadbury World.
CrossCountry train classes
- Standard Class: Standard CrossCountry services offer free Wi-Fi, ample luggage and bike storage, accessible seating, with catering available on most services. So, no matter whether you’re on board a long-distance Voyager or a regional Turbostar train, you’ll enjoy clean, spacious carriages and friendly onboard service.
- First Class: Travel Reading to Birmingham New Street First Class and relax in wider reclining seats with extra legroom and at-seat tables – perfect for both working or unwinding. Enjoy complementary Wi-Fi as well as free snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on many services.
CrossCountry train travel advice
To make sure you’re well prepared for your Reading to Birmingham New Street train journey, we provide all the information you might need for travelling with CrossCountry, including storage facilities, luggage allowance, travelling with children and pets, and assisted travel.
- Luggage: Storage space on CrossCountry trains is limited, so it’s best to bring just one medium-sized bag. Larger items can be placed in dedicated luggage areas located in Coaches D and J on Voyager trains.
- Bicycles: Standard bikes and e-bikes are welcome with a free reservation. Folding bikes can be brought onboard without a reservation. E-scooters are not permitted.
- Children: Children under 5 travel for free. For kids aged 5-15, the Family & Friends railcard offers 33% off adult fares and 60% off child fares, perfect for family trips.
- Pets: You can bring up to two pets at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead or in a secure carrier and are not allowed on seats or in restaurant cars.
- Passenger Assist: If you need help with boarding, finding your platform, or reserving wheelchair space, you can book Passenger Assist when purchasing your ticket. If you haven’t booked in advance, just ask staff at the station on the day of travel, and they’ll do their best to assist you.
Reading to Birmingham New Street train travel guide
Taking the train from Reading to Birmingham New Street is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Reading, you can arrive at Birmingham New Street in just 1h 27m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Reading to Birmingham New Street?
The average fare from Reading to Birmingham New Street is approximately €19.87, 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 Reading to Birmingham New Street by train?
What is the fastest train from Reading to Birmingham New Street?
The fastest train journey time from Reading to Birmingham New Street is 1h 27m. 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 Reading to Birmingham New Street?
No, there are no direct trains from Reading to Birmingham New Street. However, you can still find the best train options using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to see all available train services and plan your trip
Is it worth taking a train from Reading to Birmingham New Street?
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
Are Reading to Birmingham New Street trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Reading to Birmingham New Street 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 Reading to Birmingham New Street trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Reading to Birmingham New Street 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?
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
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 Reading to Birmingham New Street route?
The train from Reading to Birmingham New Street is operated by Avanti West Coast. 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
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
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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
Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals 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 Reading to Birmingham New Street 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?
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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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