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Reading to Brighton train ticket prices

Travelling from Reading to Brighton by train? Find fares from as low as €31.75. 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

€31.75󰄽

On Mon 25 May

  • Mon25 May
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    Tue26 May
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    Wed27 May
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    Thu28 May
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    Fri29 May
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    Sat30 May
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    Sun31 May

Reading to Brighton train timetable

Travelling from Reading to Brighton, the fastest train takes 2h 4m with an average travel time of 2h 19m. 90 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 00:55 and the last at 23:56. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

17:48

Reading
2h 20m, 1 change

20:08

Brighton
Great Western Railway
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18:18

Reading
2h 21m, 1 change

20:39

Brighton
Great Western Railway
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18:24

Reading
2h 31m, 2 change

20:55

Brighton
South Western Railway
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18:25

Reading
2h 30m, 2 change

20:55

Brighton
Great Western Railway
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18:48

Reading
2h 20m, 1 change

21:08

Brighton
Great Western Railway
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Reading to Brighton train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Reading to Brighton 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 €31.75
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
56 miles (91km)
Journey time
2h 4m
First train
00:55
Last train
23:56
Frequency
90

Great Western Railway and ThamesLink: Reading to Brighton trains

Using a combination of Great Western Railway (GWR) and ThamesLink, you can travel from Reading to Brighton in around 2 hours and 19 minutes. The journey covers 56 miles and, while it requires a change along the way, connections are simple and the route runs smoothly, getting you to the Sussex coast without any hassle.
After leaving Reading, the train winds through the countryside of Berkshire and Surrey before reaching Gatwick Airport, where you’ll switch to a direct ThamesLink service towards Brighton. The last stretch of the journey is especially scenic, with glimpses of the South Downs rolling past the window before you pull into the seaside city.
Both GWR and ThamesLink are known for their comfortable, reliable services, making this a stress-free trip from Berkshire to the coast. Whether you’re heading down for a day at the beach, a weekend away or to catch up with friends, this route offers a convenient and enjoyable way to reach Brighton.

Departing from Reading

Reading station is located in the town centre on Station Hill, just a short walk from Broad Street and The Oracle shopping centre. The station is easily accessible on foot, by buses that stop directly outside or by car, and there’s a large car park nearby. Forbury Gardens, a Victorian park perfect for a break, the Museum of English Rural Life and the Reading Abbey ruins are all close by.
As one of the busiest railway stations outside of London, Reading offers a wide range of direct services. You can leave Reading and head to various destinations including London Paddington, Oxford, Bristol, Cardiff and the South West with Great Western Railway. ThamesLink also provides trains onwards from London to Gatwick Airport, Brighton and Bedford. If you’re heading to Basingstoke or London Waterloo, South Western Railway is likely to have a service that works for you.

Main stops

Between Reading and Gatwick Airport, the Great Western Railway service stops at various places. This includes Wokingham, Blackwater, North Camp, Guildford, Shalford (Surrey), Chilworth, Gomshall, Dorking Deepdene, Reigate and Redhill, before arriving at Gatwick Airport.
From there, ThamesLink takes you to Brighton, stopping at Three Bridges, Balcombe, Haywards Heath, Wilvesfield, Burgess Hill, Hassocks and Preston Park along the way.

Arriving at Brighton

When you arrive in Brighton, you’ll arrive at the main train station in the area, right in the heart of the beautiful seaside city. The station is located on Queens Road, which is a simple 10 minute walk downhill to the famous seafront and Brighton Pier, making it perfectly placed for exploring the city on foot.
Brighton is part of several major routes, with frequent services to London Victoria, London Bridge, and London Blackfriars via ThamesLink and Southern. Great Western Railway also links Brighton with Reading, while other connections include services to Gatwick Airport, Eastbourne, Portsmouth and Southampton. This makes Brighton a key station for commuters, daytrippers and holidaymakers.
As you step out of the station, you’ll find yourself within easy reach of many of Brighton’s top attractions. The Lanes and North Laine are a short walk away, offering quirky shops, independent cafés and colourful street art. The Royal Pavilion, with its striking architecture, is just a 15 minute walk away. Brighton seafront and pier - which boast arcades, fairground rides and pebble beaches - can’t be missed, and are also only a short walk from the station.

Great Western Railway and ThamesLink train classes

  • Standard Class: When travelling from Reading to Brighton, the majority of people choose Standard Class, which is available on both GWR and ThamesLink trains. On GWR services, you can expect spacious seating, free wifi, power sockets and luggage racks. ThamesLink provides a similar service. Booking in advance can ensure you buy cheap train tickets, and using a railcard can reduce your fare by up to a third. This makes Standard Class both a practical and cost-effective way to journey to Brighton.
  • First Class: If you’re craving extra comfort for your journey from Reading to Brighton, consider travelling in First Class. Reading to Brighton First Class provides wider, reclining seats, additional legroom, and a quieter carriage. If you’re travelling during the week, you can also enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks on GWR, alongside fast wifi and charging points. ThamesLink First Class isn’t always available, but on services where it is, you can expect a calmer environment and more spacious seating.

Great Western Railway and ThamesLink train travel advice

Knowing what to expect from a Great Western Railway and ThamesLink service makes your journey simpler, smoother and free of stress.
  • Luggage - Both GWR and ThamesLink allow you to bring up to three items of luggage at no extra cost. There are specific places to store your luggage on both services.
  • Bicycles - You can take bikes on both GWR and ThamesLink services, but spaces aren’t guaranteed without a booking, especially on busy services. GWR requires reservations for full sized bikes due to limited space.
  • Children - Children under 5 travel for free on both train networks, and those aged between 5 and 15 can buy tickets with half price fares. If you have a Family & Friends Railcard, you can save even more money when travelling as a group.
  • Pets - You can bring up to two pets free of charge on both GWR and ThamesLink services.
  • Passenger Assist - Both operators support passengers with accessibility needs. Support can be pre-booked or arranged on the day of travel with both GWR and ThamesLink.

Reading to Brighton train travel guide

The train journey from Reading to Brighton combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Reading, you can get to Brighton in just 2h 4m, 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 Reading to Brighton?

Ticket prices from Reading to Brighton average around €31.75, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.

How do I find the best train route from Reading to Brighton?

Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare Reading to Brighton 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 Reading to Brighton?

The fastest train journey time from Reading to Brighton is 2h 4m. 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 Brighton?

No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Reading to Brighton. 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 Reading to Brighton?

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

Check timetables and during the journey

How do I find Reading to Brighton train timetables?

While Reading to Brighton trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from Reading to Brighton is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover 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 Reading to Brighton trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Reading to Brighton 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.

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

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, 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.

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 Reading to Brighton route?

The train from Reading to Brighton is operated by Great Western Railway. 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

    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

    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 Reading to Brighton train tickets

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

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?

For step-by-step guidance on amending your journey or applying for a refund, please access our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

To claim compensation for a delay (Delay Repay): If your train was delayed, cancelled, or impacted by a strike, you can find live service updates and find out how to claim on our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page.

* 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.