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Reading to Oxford train ticket prices
€6.08
On Mon 14
Reading to Oxford train timetable
Travelling from Reading to Oxford, the fastest train takes 22m with an average travel time of 24m. 35 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 00:07 and the last at 14:45. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
05:40 Reading | 31m, Direct | 06:11 Oxford | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
06:15 Reading | 22m, Direct | 06:37 Oxford | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
06:18 Reading | 31m, Direct | 06:49 Oxford | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
06:45 Reading | 28m, Direct | 07:13 Oxford | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
07:15 Reading | 23m, Direct | 07:38 Oxford | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
Reading to Oxford train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Reading to Oxford 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 one to choose?
Reading and Oxford are linked by approximately 69 direct trains every day, covering around 24 miles. Journey times range from just 22 to 32 minutes, making this one of the quickest intercity rail connections in the Thames Valley.
The table below compares the two operators to help you decide which service best suits your journey.
Train operators | Avg. duration | Departure station | Best for | Feature services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
CrossCountry | 24 mins | Reading | Fast journeys and long-distance connections | Free Wi-Fi, power sockets, First Class seating |
Great Western Railway | 26 mins | Reading | Frequent departures and value Advance fares | Free Wi-Fi, power sockets, trolley catering on selected services |
- Speed: CrossCountry services are a few minutes faster, with average journey times of 22–25 minutes compared with GWR's 24–32 minutes.
- Ticket value: GWR offers more competitive Advance fares, making it a strong choice for budget-conscious travellers who book ahead.
Train travel from Reading to Oxford
Although the journey lasts less than half an hour, it links two of England's busiest rail hubs and follows part of the historic Great Western Main Line before branching toward Oxford.
Departure from Reading
Specific transport links
- Reading Buses: Frequent routes including Emerald 5, Purple 17 and Claret 21 stop directly outside the main station entrances.
- RailAir coach: The RA1 RailAir service links Reading station with Heathrow Airport.
- Elizabeth line: Direct Elizabeth line services connect Reading with central London.
Station layout
- Main departure platforms: Direct trains to Oxford most leave from Platforms 7, 8, 10 or 11.
- Ticket gates: The main concourse contains automatic ticket barriers, staffed information points and departure boards displaying real-time platform information.
Pre-departure essentials
M&S Simply Food and WHSmith are ideal for picking up snacks or a meal deal, while Starbucks, Costa Coffee and The Pasty Shop offer hot drinks and freshly prepared food close to the main concourse and departure platforms.
Onboard trains from Reading to Oxford
The 24-mile journey can take as little as 22 minutes, with trains reaching speeds of up to 125 mph on sections of the Great Western Main Line.
The scenic side
- Sit on the left-hand side to enjoy the best views across stretches of the Thames Valley, open countryside and waterways as the train approaches Oxfordshire.
- Sit on the right-hand side for views of residential communities, rolling hills and the initial sections of the busy Great Western Main Line.
Key landmarks
- River Thames: Sections of the route run close to the River Thames, offering attractive riverside scenery before the train heads further into Oxfordshire.
- Goring Gap: This picturesque valley marks the point where the Chiltern Hills meet the North Wessex Downs.
- Didcot Parkway: One of the region's busiest railway junctions, Didcot Parkway serves as an important interchange for services across southern England.
- Didcot Railway Centre: Watch for preserved steam locomotives, historic signal boxes and heritage railway buildings located beside the main line near Didcot.
Arriving at Oxford
Oxford station welcomes more than 8 million passengers every year and sits only around 0.5 miles from the historic city centre.
The correct exit
- Main station exit: Leave through the main ticket barriers onto the front forecourt for the quickest route towards the city centre, colleges and museums.
- West exit: Use the western exit if you're heading towards Osney, nearby residential areas or long-stay car parking facilities.
- Taxi rank: Licensed black cabs wait immediately outside the main entrance, providing direct transport throughout Oxford and neighbouring towns.
Onward travel
- Oxford Bus Company: Frequent buses depart from stops immediately outside the station, serving the city centre, Headington, Cowley and other key destinations.
- Stagecoach Oxfordshire: High-frequency local and regional routes connect the station with surrounding neighbourhoods and nearby towns.
- Gloucester Green Bus Station: Around a 10-minute walk away, this coach hub provides regional and long-distance bus services across the UK.
- Local taxis: Taxis are readily available throughout the day from the station forecourt, particularly useful for luggage or destinations outside the city centre.
Walkability
From the station, a mostly flat walk along Park End Street brings you into the city centre in around 10 minutes. Popular attractions, including the University of Oxford colleges, the Covered Market, the Ashmolean Museum and Broad Street, can all be reached on foot, making public transport unnecessary for many visitors.
Why book Reading to Oxford trains with TrainPal?
Why book with TrainPal vs Trainline?
Unlike Trainline, TrainPal charges no booking fees on any route. On top of that, TrainPal's Split Ticket feature automatically divides your journey into multiple ticket segments, saving up to 50% compared to buying a single through ticket. Train fares from Reading to Oxford start from just €6.08 on TrainPal.
Is TrainPal cheaper than buying direct?
TrainPal is often cheaper than buying direct. We don't charge any booking fees, and our Split Ticketing technology searches for the lowest fare combination across your entire journey—something train operator websites don't offer. Plus, we compare prices across multiple operators (e.g., Great Western Railway, CrossCountry on the Reading to Oxford route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.
Reading to Oxford train travel guide
Taking the train from Reading to Oxford is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Reading, you can arrive at Oxford in just 22m, 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 Oxford?
The average fare from Reading to Oxford is approximately €6.08, 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 Oxford by train?
What is the fastest train from Reading to Oxford?
The fastest train journey time from Reading to Oxford is 22m. 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 Oxford?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Reading to Oxford. 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 Oxford?
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
Are Reading to Oxford trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Reading to Oxford 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 Oxford trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Reading to Oxford 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?
Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.
Which train companies operate the Reading to Oxford route?
The route from Reading to Oxford is operated by Great Western Railway. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
Each passenger is permitted to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage at no extra cost. This can include a combination of items such as suitcases, backpacks, and satchels.
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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 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.
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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.
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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 Oxford train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
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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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