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  3. Reading to Swindon (Wilts)

Reading to Swindon (Wilts) train timetable

The journey from Reading to Swindon (Wilts) on the fastest train in 24m, usually 28m. Each day, 81 trains leave from Reading, starting at 00:04 and ending at 23:27. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

16:13

Reading
25m, Direct

16:38

Wilts
Great Western Railway
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16:25

Reading
28m, Direct

16:53

Wilts
Great Western Railway
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16:43

Reading
32m, Direct

17:15

Wilts
Great Western Railway
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16:55

Reading
24m, Direct

17:19

Wilts
Great Western Railway
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16:58

Reading
30m, Direct

17:28

Wilts
Great Western Railway
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Reading to Swindon (Wilts) train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Reading to Swindon (Wilts) 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 €10.93
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
35 miles (57km)
Journey time
24m
First train
00:04
Last train
23:27
Frequency
81
Train operators

Great Western Railway: Reading to Swindon (Wilts) trains

Travel on direct routes with Great Western Railway to get from Reading to Swindon (Wilts) in under 30 minutes. Departing from Berkshire's largest town, you’ll reach Wiltshire quickly and efficiently by train. Better yet, the journey from Reading to Swindon is affordable too when you buy cheap advance tickets with TrainPal.

Along the way, you’ll race past Berkshire and Wiltshire countryside, sneaking glances at the River Thames and the North Wessex Downs from the comfort of your seat. 

Great Western Railway (GWR) operates an extensive network across South Wales, the South West and the Cotswolds, providing pivotal connections between London Paddington, Oxford, Bristol Temple Meads, Exeter, and Penzance, among other cities and towns.

Departing from Reading

Depart from Reading, one of the Thames Valley’s most dynamic towns, and a rail hub with excellent connections to London and South West England.

Managed by Network Rail, the station offers step-free access to all platforms, baby changing facilities, accessible toilets, and various refreshment counters to buy light meals and drinks. The station has public Wi-Fi, photobooths, sheltered waiting rooms, and machines to collect pre-paid tickets.

Known for information technology and insurance, the city also has historic buildings and culture galore. Visit the medieval ruins of Reading Abbey, shop until you drop in regional retail hubs, or get your vibes on at the buzzing music scene of Reading Festival.

Located in the heart of Reading, on Station Road, you can easily reach the station on various local buses, taxis, or by bike. There are 344 bike storage spaces available for those not wanting to board with their vehicle.

As the busiest station in Berkshire and the third busiest in South East England, Reading offers passengers the opportunity to board trains to London Paddington, Bristol Temple Meads, Plymouth, and numerous other cities and towns across the UK, including Cardiff, Manchester, and Birmingham. Reading is the western terminus of the Elizabeth Line, and is served by Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway, and the North Downs Line.

Main stops

From Reading to Swindon (Wilts) with GWR, you will typically call at Didcot Parkway only before arriving at Swindon.

Arriving at Swindon (Wilts)

Between the Cotswolds and the North Wessex Downs, Swindon is Wiltshire’s busiest rail station, sometimes referred to as Wiltshire’s ‘railway town’.

Arriving by train at Swindon is a convenient way to start your day out in Wiltshire, South West England. Only 10 minutes from the town centre, train passengers have great access to the town’s historic buildings and culture.

A historic town recorded in the 1086 Domesday Book, Swindon has a strong rail identity. Visit the Grade II listed Railway Village to learn how Victorian railway workers lived. At the Museum of the Great Western Railway, housed in former railway works, learn the story of Swindon’s railway community through film archives and artefacts.

Before you leave, Swindon Station has step-free access and amenities including coffee shops, public Wi-Fi, and accessible toilets. Getting around the town is simple, as the central bus station is just a short walk away.

A key stop on the Great Western Main Line, Swindon connects passengers to London, Bristol, Cardiff, Gloucester, Swansea, Cheltenham, and Westbury. The station’s only operator is Great Western Railway.

Great Western Railway train classes 

  • Standard Class: Enjoy a comfortable journey on the short trip west when you book affordable tickets with GWR. Free Wi-Fi, generous seating, and a restaurant car offering a selection of tasty food and drinks for purchase will ensure a pleasant journey.
  • First Class: For the most luxurious train experience, choose a Reading to Swindon (Wilts) First Class ticket. Recline in extra spacious seats, stretch your legs, and connect to fast Wi-Fi. On selected services, benefit from complimentary drinks and snacks. Whenever you travel, enjoy the peace of exclusive seating.

Great Western Railway train travel advice

  • Children: Under 5s travel free from Reading to Swindon, while children aged 5 to 15 are eligible for 50% off tickets when travelling with a fare-paying adult.
  • Bicycles: Travel with standard bikes and e-bikes for free with a mandatory reservation (e-scooters are not permitted). Note: spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended.
  • Pets: Up to two pets can board with each (human) passenger at no additional cost. Remember to keep dogs on a lead and hold smaller animals securely in pet carriers.
  • Luggage: Board with up to three items of luggage on Great Western Railway services at no extra cost. All suitcases, rucksacks, or holdalls all welcome, though remember to store larger items securely in overhead or end-of-carriage racks.
  • Passenger Assist: If you need help boarding, reserving a wheelchair space, or anything else, book support from GWR in advance. Use the Passenger Assist app, or speak to staff at larger stations.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Reading to Swindon (Wilts) train travel guide

The train journey from Reading to Swindon (Wilts) combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Reading, you can get to Swindon (Wilts) in just 24m, 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 Swindon (Wilts)?

Ticket prices from Reading to Swindon (Wilts) average around €10.93, 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 Swindon (Wilts)?

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

The fastest train journey time from Reading to Swindon (Wilts) is 24m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.

Are there direct trains from Reading to Swindon (Wilts)?

No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Reading to Swindon (Wilts). 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 Swindon (Wilts)?

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?

You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

Are Reading to Swindon (Wilts) trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

Reading to Swindon (Wilts) 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?

Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed journey.

Do Reading to Swindon (Wilts) trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Reading to Swindon (Wilts) 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?

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 can benefit from various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard offers students up to 1/3 off most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy similar savings. Both Railcards can be purchased online or at train stations and are valid for one year, providing great value 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?

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 Swindon (Wilts) route?

The train from Reading to Swindon (Wilts) 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

    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.

  • 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

    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 Swindon (Wilts) 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?

If your journey was affected by a delay, cancellation, or strike, please visit our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page. There, you will find live service information and instructions on how to claim Delay Repay compensation.

* 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.