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Swindon (Wilts) to Reading train ticket prices

Travelling from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading by train? Find fares from as low as €24.18. 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.
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Swindon (Wilts) to Reading train timetable

The journey from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading on the fastest train in 25m, usually 30m. Each day, 25 trains leave from Swindon (Wilts), starting at 09:58 and ending at 18:40. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

20:06

Swindon (Wilts)
28m, Direct

20:34

Reading
Great Western Railway
Find tickets

20:11

Swindon (Wilts)
30m, Direct

20:41

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

Plan your journey from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading 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 €24.18
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
35 miles (56km)
Journey time
25m
First train
09:58
Last train
18:40
Frequency
25
Train operators

Great Western Railway: Swindon (Wilts) to Reading trains

By Mark Wilshin | Updated May 29, 2026
Travel from the North Wessex Downs to one of the Thames Valley’s most dynamic towns aboard this direct Great Western Railway train from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading in under just 30 minutes.
As you travel from Swindon to Reading, your train will pass through the gentle farmland of Wiltshire and Berkshire with glimpses of the winding River Thames along the way.
Great Western Railway operates an extensive network across South Wales, the South West and the Cotswolds. There are direct services to and from London Paddington connecting with key destinations across the country, including Oxford, Bristol Temple Meads, Exeter, and Penzance in Cornwall.

Departing from Swindon (Wilts)

Just a ten-minute walk from the town centre, Swindon railway station is Wiltshire’s busiest rail hub and a key stop along the Great Western Main Line. 
Managed by Great Western Railway, Swindon station offers step-free access throughout, lifts to all platforms, and amenities including shops, cafés, ticket machines, and public Wi-Fi. The station is easily accessible, with the central bus station just a short walk away and convenient taxi ranks and car drop-off points just outside.
Sitting at the junction of routes between London, Bristol, Cardiff, Gloucester and the South West, Swindon is a major interchange for both local and long-distance services. Frequent high-speed trains whisk you to London Paddington in under an hour, while westbound services run directly to Bristol, Cardiff, Swansea and further on to Devon and Cornwall. Regional links also connect Swindon to Cheltenham Spa via Gloucester and to Westbury via the Wessex Main Line, making it an important gateway for commuters and leisure travellers alike.

Main stops

Making its way through the Thames Valley countryside, your Swindon (Wilts) to Reading train will stop at Didcot Parkway before continuing to your final destination at Reading.

Arriving at Reading

Arriving into Reading, you’ll find yourself in one of the busiest and best-connected rail hubs outside London. Managed by Network Rail, the station offers step-free access to all platforms and smooth onward connections to destinations including London Paddington, Bristol Temple Meads, Cardiff, Birmingham, Exeter, Plymouth, Southampton and Manchester.
Right in the heart of town on Station Road, Reading station is just moments away from buses, taxis and car collection points for easy onward travel. Now also the western terminus of the Elizabeth Line, Reading is also served by Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway and the North Downs Line, linking passengers across the South West, South Wales, the Midlands and London. You’ll also find easy airport connections, with direct services to both Gatwick and Heathrow.
Set on the rivers Thames and Kennet, Reading blends a rich history with a lively, modern energy – from the medieval ruins of Reading Abbey to thriving shopping hubs, a buzzing music scene at the Reading Festival and a lively university town atmosphere.

Great Western Railway train classes 

  • Standard Class: Settle in for a comfortable ride with Great Western Railway Standard Class and enjoy free Wi-Fi, generous seating and on many trains the convenience of a restaurant car serving freshly sourced food and drink.
  • First Class: Travel from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading First Class for an even more comfortable travel experience with extra-spacious reclining seats, wider legroom and fast Wi-Fi. Selected services also include complimentary drinks and snacks, with the option of freshly prepared meals brought to your seat, plus weekend upgrades from just £10.

Great Western Railway train travel advice

Before you board your Swindon (Wilts) to Reading train, here’s a quick guide to make sure your journey runs as smoothly as possible, covering everything from luggage, bikes and children to pets and accessibility support.
  • Luggage: You can bring up to three items onboard Great Western Railway services free of charge, such as suitcases, rucksacks or holdalls. Larger items should be stowed in overhead racks or end-of-carriage spaces to keep doors and walkways clear.
  • Bicycles: Standard bikes and e-bikes can be brought on board with a free reservation, though spaces are limited, so booking early is recommended. Folding bikes are always welcome if stowed as luggage. E-scooters are not permitted.
  • Children: Under-fives can travel for free, and children aged 5-15 are eligible for half-price fares when travelling with a fare-paying adult. Teenagers can also unlock a 50% discount with a network-wide 16-17 Saver railcard.
  • Pets: Passengers may travel with up to two pets at no additional cost. Dogs must remain on a lead, and smaller animals should be transported securely in pet carriers. All animals must be kept off seats.
  • Passenger Assist: Passenger Assist is available if you need help boarding, reserving a wheelchair space or navigating stations. You can book in advance when purchasing your ticket, via the app or simply by speaking to staff at larger stations on the day of travel.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Why book Swindon (Wilts) to Reading trains with TrainPal?

  • Why book with TrainPal vs Trainline?

    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 Swindon (Wilts) to Reading start from just €24.18 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 on the Swindon (Wilts) to Reading route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.

Swindon (Wilts) to Reading train travel guide

The train journey from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Swindon (Wilts), you can get to Reading in just 25m, 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 Swindon (Wilts) to Reading?

Ticket prices from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading average around €24.18, 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 Swindon (Wilts) to Reading?

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

The fastest train journey time from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading is 25m . 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 Swindon (Wilts) to Reading?

No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.

Is it worth taking a train from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading?

Yes, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.

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

How do I find Swindon (Wilts) to Reading train timetables?

While Swindon (Wilts) to Reading 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 Swindon (Wilts) to Reading 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?

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

Yes, most trains on the route from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading 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 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, the refund and exchange policies for train tickets vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. Advance Tickets are usually non-refundable but can sometimes be exchanged for a fee. Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets offer more generous refund and exchange options. Always check the terms and conditions of your ticket or visit UK train ticket types for specific details.

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 Swindon (Wilts) to Reading route?

The train from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading 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

    Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted. We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.

  • Children

    Children under 5 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.

  • 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

    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 Swindon (Wilts) to Reading train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.

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?

To change your journey or request a refund, please visit our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page for step-by-step instructions.

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.