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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 £19.74. 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.

Cheapest

£19.74󰄽

On Sun 17 May

Sun17 May
£19.74󰄽
Mon18 May
£19.74󰄽
Tue19 May
£19.74󰄽
Wed20 May
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Thu21 May
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Fri22 May
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Sat23 May

Swindon (Wilts) to Reading train timetable

Travelling from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading, the fastest train takes 24m with an average travel time of 29m. 46 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 08:24 and the last at 23:08. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.

Departs		Arrives	Operator
10:37 Wilts	26m, Direct	11:03 Reading	Great Western Railway	Find tickets
10:40 Wilts	31m, Direct	11:11 Reading	Great Western Railway	Find tickets
11:19 Wilts	25m, Direct	11:44 Reading	Great Western Railway	Find tickets
11:30 Wilts	32m, Direct	12:02 Reading	Great Western Railway	Find tickets
11:40 Wilts	29m, Direct	12:09 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 £19.74

Departure station

Swindon (Wilts)

Arrival station

Reading

Distance

35 miles (57km)

Journey time

24m

First train

08:24

Last train

23:08

Frequency

Train operators

Great Western Railway

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

Taking the train from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Swindon (Wilts), you can arrive at Reading in just 24m, 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 Swindon (Wilts) to Reading?

Ticket prices from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading average around £19.74, 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.

What is the best way to travel from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading by train?

Utilise the TrainPal app or website to its fullest potential. Our Train Journey Planner is a top-notch online tool for planning your trips. Just enter your departure and arrival cities or stations. Then, review timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and check for food supplies or other amenities. Find 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, you will need to transfer when travelling from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading. 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 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?

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

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?

Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.

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?

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?

Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by train operator.

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?

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 Swindon (Wilts) to Reading route?

The route from Swindon (Wilts) to Reading 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

Luggage
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
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 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
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
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 Swindon (Wilts) to Reading train tickets

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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?

For information on claiming Delay Repay compensation due to a delayed, cancelled, or strike-affected service, consult our delays and disruptions page or our UK rail strike page. These pages also provide live service updates.

More train routes

Trains from Swindon (Wilts)	Trains from Reading
Swindon (Wilts) to Cardiff	Reading to Wokingham
Swindon (Wilts) to London Paddington	Reading to Manchester
Swindon (Wilts) to Chippenham	Reading to Bristol
Swindon (Wilts) to Bristol	Reading to London Paddington
Swindon (Wilts) to Cheltenham Spa	Reading to Southampton

* 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.

Swindon (Wilts) to Reading Trains From £19.74*

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