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  3. Reading to London Waterloo

Reading to London Waterloo train ticket prices

Travelling from Reading to London Waterloo by train? Find fares from as low as €11.76. 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

€11.76󰄽

On Fri 15 May

  • €13.16󰄽
    Tue12 May
  • €21.95󰄽
    Wed13 May
  • €21.95󰄽
    Thu14 May
  • Fri15 May
  • €21.95󰄽
    Sat16 May
  • €21.95󰄽
    Sun17 May
  • €21.95󰄽
    Mon18 May

Reading to London Waterloo train timetable

Journey from Reading to London Waterloo on the fastest train in 59m, usually 1h 2m. Every day, 193 trains leave from Reading, starting at 02:24 and ending at 23:52. During Off-Peak Times from 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter and less crowded journey. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with us.

DepartsArrivesOperator

02:24

Reading
3h 17m, 1 change

05:41

London Waterloo
Great Western Railway
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03:54

Reading
2h 2m, 1 change

05:56

London Waterloo
Great Western Railway
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03:54

Reading
2h 18m, 1 change

06:12

London Waterloo
Great Western Railway
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04:35

Reading
1h 40m, Direct

06:15

London Waterloo
Great Western Railway
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05:10

Reading
1h 24m, Direct

06:34

London Waterloo
Great Western Railway
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Reading to London Waterloo train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Reading to London Waterloo 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 €11.76
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
37 miles (60km)
Journey time
59m
First train
02:24
Last train
23:52
Frequency
193

South Western Railway: Reading to London Waterloo trains

Head south of the river on a train from Reading to London Waterloo. South Western Railway operates two-hourly services. The journey is only 1 hour and 25 minutes on average, cruising through the beautiful Thames Valley and offering elevated views over the bustling capital as you approach the terminus.
Also known as SWR, South Western Railway provides commuter services to south-west London, as well as suburban and regional routes across Hampshire, Berkshire, Devon and other parts of the south. The company also operates the Island Line on the Isle of Wight. Destinations include Dorchester, Aldershot and Southampton.

Departing from Reading

Just a short stroll from the town centre, Reading station is the calling point for the Reading to London train. If you’re travelling with heavy luggage or from elsewhere in the town, you can take one of the many buses stopping on Station Road or directly in front of Reading station. Taxi drop-off points are by the northern entrance, station forecourt or on Station Hill.
Reading train station offers direct services to towns and cities such as Redhill, Exeter and Swansea. These trains are run by four operators: South Western Railway, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway and Elizabeth line.

Main stops

Stops on the journey from Reading to London Waterloo might include Wokingham, Ascot and Richmond. Calling points differ depending on the train-operating company, time and route.

Arriving at London Waterloo

Your Reading to London train arrives at London Waterloo. More than just a mere transport hub, the surrounding area is lined with attractions and hidden gems adored by locals and tourists alike. If you’re hungry, head to The Cut or Lower Marsh for incredible independent restaurants or grab a bite to go from the weekend Southbank Centre Food Market. Don’t miss Leake Street Arches, where a series of tunnels beneath the station act as a canvas for vibrant graffiti and street art.
Waterloo station is well served by local buses, the Tube (Bakerloo, Jubilee and Northern lines) and river boats from London Eye Pier and Festival Pier. It is also connected to Waterloo East railway station. South Western Railway operates all trains, serving South West England and the southern coast. Travel directly to places like Guildford, Salisbury and Poole.

South Western Railway train classes

  • Standard Class: Free Wi-Fi is offered on almost half of South Western Railway’s trains. In Standard Class, you’ll find comfortable seats, luggage storage racks and plug sockets under table seats. Book your trip in advance to buy cheap train tickets.
  • First Class: Reading to London First Class accommodation isn’t currently offered on South Western Railway services. On other routes, the operator provides larger, more luxurious seating with bigger tables that can charge your devices without cables. All you need to do is put your device onto the charging pad.

South Western Railway train travel advice

  • Luggage: Although specific luggage limits haven’t been specified by South Western Railway, your bags must stay out of doorways, aisles or wheelchair areas.
  • Bicycles: Certain trains don’t offer dedicated storage areas for bikes, and the ones that do have limited spaces. You don’t need to book in advance. E-bikes are permitted, but e-scooters are not allowed on board.
  • Children: Under-5s enjoy free travel. 50% discounts are offered to all 5–15-year-olds and for most tickets purchased with a 16–17 Saver Railcard. Children can also use their Zip Oyster photocards to travel within the London fare zones.
  • Pets: You’re allowed to travel with up to two pets. Keep them on a lead or in a secure carrier.
  • Passenger Assist: You can ask for help for your journey, such as moving around stations, but booking with at least two hours’ notice is advised.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Reading to London Waterloo train travel guide

The train journey from Reading to London Waterloo combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Reading, you can get to London Waterloo in just 59m, 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 London Waterloo?

The average ticket fare from Reading to London Waterloo is about €11.76, 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.

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

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

The fastest train journey time from Reading to London Waterloo is 59m. 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 London Waterloo?

No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Reading to London Waterloo. 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 Reading to London Waterloo?

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?

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 London Waterloo train timetables?

While Reading to London Waterloo 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 London Waterloo 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 London Waterloo trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from Reading to London Waterloo 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?

While Standard Class offers a good travel experience, First Class provides an upgrade in comfort and service. This typically includes enhanced amenities like complimentary food and drinks, though the specific offerings depend on the 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?

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 London Waterloo route?

The train from Reading to London Waterloo is operated by Elizabeth line. 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

    You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.

  • 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.

  • Children

    Children under 5 typically travel for free. A 50% discount applies to children aged 5 to 15. Additionally, those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for a 50% discount with a 16-17 Saver Railcard.

  • 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

    For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.

How to buy cheap Reading to London Waterloo 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?

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?

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.