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  3. Swindon (Wilts) to Reading

Swindon (Wilts) to Reading train ticket prices

Travelling from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading by train? Find fares from as low as £19.73. 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 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 £19.73
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
35 miles (57km)
Journey time
24m
First train
05:28
Last train
23:32
Frequency
78
Train operators

Great Western Railway: Swindon (Wilts) to Reading trains

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.

Swindon (Wilts) to Reading train travel guide

Travelling by train from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Swindon (Wilts), you can reach Reading in just 24m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading?

The average ticket fare from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading is about £19.73, 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.

How do I find the best train route from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading?

Make full use of the TrainPal app or website. Our Train Journey Planner is an excellent online planning tool. Simply fill in the cities or stations you depart from and arrive at. Then check timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and see if there are food supplies or other amenities you need. You can get the best train route from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading.

What is the fastest train from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading?

The fastest train journey time from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading 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 Swindon (Wilts) to Reading?

No, there are no direct trains from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading. 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 Swindon (Wilts) to Reading?

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

Check timetables and during the journey

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

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 Swindon (Wilts) to Reading 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?

Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.

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

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors have access to various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard allows students to save up to 1/3 on most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy comparable savings. Both types of Railcards are available for purchase online or at train stations and are valid for one year, making them a valuable option 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?

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

    Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.

  • 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

    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.

  • Pets

    Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • 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 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?

Step-by-step instructions for changing your journey or requesting a refund are available on our 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.