Reading to London Waterloo Trains From £18.10*

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.