A train trip from Birkdale to Reading takes about 5hrs 29 mins on average, covering roughly 173 miles (278 kilometres). With around 21 trains running each day, there's plenty of flexibility for your travel plans. If you book in advance, you can grab tickets starting from just £38.30, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Reading |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Birkdale |
Frequency | 21trains per day |
Journey Time | from4hrs 31 mins |
Changes | 2-3no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 06:10 / 00:04 |
Distance | 173miles (278 km) |
5 Routes | Via Sandhills & Liverpool South Parkway & Birmingham New Street Via Moorfields & Liverpool Lime Street & Birmingham New Street Via Sandhills & Liverpool South Parkway & Wolverhampton Via Liverpool South Parkway & Wolverhampton & Birmingham International Via Liverpool South Parkway & Manchester Piccadilly |
5 Train Operators | Northern Rail, CrossCountry, Merseyrail, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast |
Prices | from£38.30 |
Hop on a Train from Birkdale to Reading – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Birkdale to Reading by train? Well, you've come to the right place – and don’t worry, it won’t take forever!
On average, the journey takes around 5hrs 29 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Reading), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 4hrs 31 mins. With roughly 21 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 173-mile (278 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Northern Rail, CrossCountry, Merseyrail, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, all of whom offer comfy seats and plenty of luggage space – because, let’s face it, nobody likes a cramped train!
The best part? Tickets start from just £38.30 if you book in advance, which is a much better deal than scrambling for tickets on the day. Want to save even more? Travelling during Off-Peak hours or flashing a Railcard can help you keep more money in your wallet.
So, ready to snag those cheap tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest prices and make your wallet happy. Keep scrolling for more travel tips, or check out our timetable above for live train times. Time to choo-choo your way to Reading!
The travel time between Birkdale and Reading by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 29 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 31 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Birkdale to Reading is 4hrs 31 mins.
Train ticket prices from Birkdale to Reading can start from as little as £38.30 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.
The departure and arrival times for trains between Birkdale and Reading vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 21 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:10, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:04.
First class tickets on trains between Birkdale and Reading typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Birkdale and Reading can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.
By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Birkdale and Reading. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Reading, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.
No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Birkdale & Reading. However, there are 21 possible journeys which require a change.
Northern Rail, CrossCountry, Merseyrail, West Midlands Trains and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between Birkdale and Reading.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Birkdale and Reading, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Sunday 27th April | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 08:40 Birkdale | 13:39 Reading | 3 changes | Moorfields Liverpool Lime Street Birmingham New Street | 4 hrs 59 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:10 Birkdale | 14:42 Reading | 3 changes | Moorfields Liverpool Lime Street Birmingham New Street | 5 hrs 32 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:10 Birkdale | 15:39 Reading | 3 changes | Moorfields Liverpool Lime Street Birmingham New Street | 5 hrs 29 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:10 Birkdale | 16:40 Reading | 3 changes | Moorfields Liverpool Lime Street Birmingham New Street | 5 hrs 30 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 12:10 Birkdale | 17:00 Reading | 3 changes | Moorfields Liverpool Lime Street Birmingham New Street | 4 hrs 50 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:10 Birkdale | 18:40 Reading | 3 changes | Moorfields Liverpool Lime Street Birmingham New Street | 5 hrs 30 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:10 Birkdale | 19:39 Reading | 3 changes | Moorfields Liverpool Lime Street Birmingham New Street | 5 hrs 29 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:10 Birkdale | 20:40 Reading | 3 changes | Moorfields Liverpool Lime Street Birmingham New Street | 5 hrs 30 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:10 Birkdale | 21:39 Reading | 3 changes | Moorfields Liverpool Lime Street Birmingham New Street | 5 hrs 29 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:10 Birkdale | 22:39 Reading | 3 changes | Moorfields Liverpool Lime Street Birmingham New Street | 5 hrs 29 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 23:22 Birkdale | 09:43 Reading | 3 changes | Moorfields Liverpool Lime Street Birmingham New Street | 10 hrs 21 mins | Get Tickets | |
Located in the charming fringes of Southport, Birkdale Train Station serves as a welcoming hub for travellers, both near and far. Whether you're a local commuter or a curious visitor, this station offers a mix of convenience and accessibility that eases every journey. Nestled amidst the quaint surroundings of Birkdale, this station is your gateway to explore the vibrant landscapes and urban corners of the United Kingdom.
Operating under Merseyrail, Birkdale Station greets you with the promise of efficient service. If you're planning your next rail adventure, you're at the right place to discover all the details about the facilities, accessibility, and travel options that make this station a popular choice.
At the heart of Birkdale Station, you'll find a well-organized and passenger-friendly environment. Though ticket machines are unavailable, tickets can be conveniently collected from the ticket office, which opens bright and early. Smartcards are issued here, with validators available to ensure seamless travel on the network. Plus, an induction loop is installed to assist those with hearing needs.
Your comfort is well-catered with step-free access throughout the station. It's classified under ‘Category A’, meaning every platform is easily reachable via the level crossing, ideal for passengers with reduced mobility. While the station lacks retail shops, vending machines for cold drinks and snacks are available, allowing for a quick refreshment on the go. Don’t forget to use the secure cycle storage if you’re arriving by bike, with 24 protected spaces under CCTV surveillance ensuring your peace of mind.
Exploring further afield from Birkdale is straightforward. While a taxi rank isn't present at the station, local bus services link wonderfully with other modes of transport. Take a look at this handy guide from Merseytravel for detailed onward journey options. If you’re aiming for international travel, Liverpool John Lennon Airport is conveniently reachable via Merseyrail with combined train and bus tickets, making global adventures only a few steps away.
Birkdale's connections to the broader UK truly shine with numerous routes available. Fancy a quick trip to Southport, or how about a cultural excursion to the heart of Liverpool Central? The choices are plenty, stretching from the serene shores of Formby to bustling urban stops like Moorfields and many more. If you’re seeking inspiration for your next rail journey, rest assured that Birkdale Station links you effortlessly to your desired destination.
Embrace the opportunities that Birkdale Station offers, with its robust connectivity and easy navigation through its facilities. Whether it's a morning commute or a leisurely weekend away, Birkdale makes rail travel a hassle-free endeavor. Dive into the heart of Merseyside or beyond, knowing that comfort and convenience are just a ticket away. So take the leap, plan your trip, and let Birkdale Station be the starting point for your next great adventure.
Safe travels and happy ticket purchasing!
Nestled in the heart of Berkshire, Reading Train Station serves as a key gateway for countless travelers. Balancing its historic charm with modern advancements, the station offers seamless connectivity across the UK. Conveniently positioned on the Great Western Main Line, it opens up quick travel interludes to both London and beyond. Whether you're a commuter, a tourist, or perhaps just someone wandering the British railways, Reading Station is geared to meet various travel needs.
Understanding the potential needs of its patrons, Reading Station furnishes extensive facilities. The ticket office operates from morning to night, opening from 06:15 to 22:00 during weekdays and Saturdays, and from 07:15 to 22:00 on Sundays. In addition, ticket machines are plentiful, and most importantly, accessible ticket machines are conveniently located for easy access. Reading Station also facilitates smart card validation, boasts an induction loop, and is reinforced with round-the-clock CCTV.
Accessibility, naturally, is a top priority here. The station provides step-free access throughout its vast span, making platforms easily reachable via lifts and bridges. Furthermore, accessible toilets, waiting rooms, and seating areas are maintained to high standards, ensuring comfort for everyone.
Shopping and dining options are abundant. Refreshment facilities, cash machines, and a selection of shops await travelers. Free public Wi-Fi adds to the comfort, making it easier to continue working or stay entertained while on the move.
Getting to your next destination is seamless with Reading Station's diverse travel connections. Taxi ranks are readily available at both station entrances, ensuring even those with accessibility needs are well-catered to. Buses, too, are nearby, although travelers should note that not all are accessible. For those traveling further afield, frequent connections to both Heathrow and Gatwick Airports are offered, with a luxurious 'RailAir' service to Heathrow and regular trains to Gatwick.
Meanwhile, cyclists can take advantage of plentiful bicycle storage options, although there's no hire facility at the station itself.
Reading's strategic location makes it a springboard for numerous journeys. For instance, you can plan rides between Reading and London Paddington, a route popular with both business travelers and tourists. If local travel is on your mind, consider the quick jaunts to locations such as Wokingham or a slightly longer trip to Oxford, famed for its prestigious university and serene landscapes.
Other notable routes include travels to Basingstoke and Gatwick Airport. Whether you're heading for a day out in the country or catching a flight, these connections speak volumes about the station's versatility.
In conclusion, Reading Train Station integrates tradition with contemporary demands, catering to an ever-growing community of travelers. With its rich array of services, useful amenities, and robust connectivity options, it’s undoubtedly an essential part of the UK's railway network. Should your next journey be one of the popular routes Reading offers—perhaps venturing towards bustling city life or serene countryside—you can rest assured that the station's comprehensive services will meet your needs splendidly. Don't miss the chance to explore what makes Reading not just a passageway, but a destination in its own right. Happy travels!