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Reading to Oxford train ticket prices
€5.97
On Wed 26 Aug
Reading to Oxford train timetable
Travelling from Reading to Oxford, the fastest train takes 22m with an average travel time of 24m. 24 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 00:20 and the last at 11:48. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
18:49 Reading | 26m, Direct | 19:15 Oxford | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
19:14 Reading | 32m, Direct | 19:46 Oxford | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
19:15 Reading | 23m, Direct | 19:38 Oxford | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
19:50 Reading | 26m, Direct | 20:16 Oxford | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
20:14 Reading | 31m, Direct | 20:45 Oxford | Great Western Railway | 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?
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 €5.97 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., CrossCountry, Great Western Railway 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
The train journey from Reading to Oxford combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Reading, you can get to Oxford in just 22m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Reading to Oxford?
The average ticket fare from Reading to Oxford is about €5.97, 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.
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, there are no direct trains from Reading to Oxford. 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 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?
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
How do I find Reading to Oxford train timetables?
Reading to Oxford trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.
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 Reading to Oxford 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
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?
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 Oxford route?
The route from Reading to Oxford is operated by CrossCountry. 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
Discounts are available for young travellers based on age: Travellers under 5 usually travel free, children aged 5–15 get a 50% discount, and 16 to 17-year-olds can use a 16-17 Saver Railcard to get 50% off.
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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.
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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 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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