A train trip from Birmingham New Street to Reading takes about 1hrs 55 mins on average, covering roughly 80 miles (130 kilometres). With around 22 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 £12.60, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Reading |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Birmingham New Street |
Frequency | 22trains per day |
Journey Time | from1hrs 31 mins |
Changes | 021 direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 06:03 / 00:28 |
Distance | 80miles (130 km) |
2 Routes | Direct Via Coventry |
2 Train Operators | West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry |
Prices | from£12.60 |
Hop on a Train from Birmingham New Street to Reading – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Birmingham New Street 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 1hrs 55 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 1hrs 31 mins. With roughly 22 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 80-mile (130 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, 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 £12.60 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 Birmingham New Street and Reading by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 1hrs 55 mins & the fastest journey takes 1hrs 31 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Birmingham New Street to Reading is 1hrs 31 mins.
Train ticket prices from Birmingham New Street to Reading can start from as little as £12.60 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 Birmingham New Street and Reading vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 22 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:03, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:28.
First class tickets on trains between Birmingham New Street and Reading typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Birmingham New Street 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 Birmingham New Street 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.
Yes! There are usually around 21 direct services per day from Birmingham New Street to Reading
West Midlands Trains and CrossCountry are the main train operating companies running services between Birmingham New Street and Reading.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Birmingham New Street and Reading, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Monday 28th April | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 22:03 Birmingham New Street | 23:38 Reading | Direct | 1 hrs 35 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 22:17 Birmingham New Street | 02:29 Reading | 2 changes | London Euston London Paddington | 4 hrs 12 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 23:11 Birmingham New Street | 04:23 Reading | 2 changes | London Euston London Paddington | 5 hrs 12 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 23:50 Birmingham New Street | 07:44 Reading | 1 change | Coventry | 7 hrs 54 mins | Get Tickets | |
In the heart of Birmingham lies one of the UK’s most bustling and well-connected train stations – Birmingham New Street. Known for its impressive architecture following extensive renovation, it serves as a central hub for commuters, tourists, and locals alike. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, New Street Station offers an array of facilities and amenities to make your journey as smooth as possible.
Birmingham New Street is open and ready to cater to all of your travel needs. The ticket office operates extensive hours, opening from 5:15 AM to 11 PM on weekdays and 8 AM to 11 PM on Sundays, ensuring you can purchase or collect your tickets at a time that suits you. Remember to bring your online purchase collection codes to use the available ticket machines. Accessibility is a top priority, with step-free access throughout the station, elevators and escalators serving all platforms, and dedicated staff available for assistance. However, note that accessible ticket machines are not available.
If you're in need of some refreshments or a shopping fix, you’re in luck. With a variety of food and drink outlets ranging from Costa Coffee to M&S Food and The Pasty Shop, you won't go hungry. For those looking to stay connected, public Wi-Fi is available across the station, making it easy for you to work or catch up on your favorite shows while waiting. There's also CCTV coverage providing enhanced security throughout the premise.
Travel tip: Check out the First-Class Lounge for a more comfortable waiting experience if you hold the appropriate ticket.
Ready to explore beyond Birmingham? New Street's strategic location offers myriad transport links to let you do just that. Taxis can be picked up from Navigation Street, while nearby bus stops on Smallbrook Queensway and Hill Street provide plentiful options to get you where you need to go. Most buses are wheelchair accessible, ensuring a seamless journey for everyone. Additionally, the Midland Metro tram network, easily accessible from the station, offers a swift way to get around the city.
If flying's on your itinerary, there's a regular train service to Birmingham International Airport, just a brief 10-15 minute ride away. With these connections, whether taking a quick hop to the airport or exploring local sites, onward travel from Birmingham New Street Station is straightforward and convenient.
Looking to continue your journey from Birmingham New Street to exciting destinations? Popular spots such as London Euston, Coventry, and Manchester Piccadilly are just a train ride away. For closer adventures, visit Bournville to tour the famous Cadbury chocolate factory or head over to University (Birmingham) to explore its beautiful campus.
Consider adding destinations like Birmingham International, Leicester, or Wolverhampton to your list for more travel inspirations.
Birmingham New Street Station acts not only as a gateway to Birmingham but also as a springboard to the rest of the UK. Whether you’re planning a daily commute, a weekend getaway, or the start of a grand adventure, this station has the facilities and connections to get you there effortlessly. Dive into the rich cultural tapestry and vibrant energy of Birmingham, or venture further afield knowing you've got a reliable home base at Birmingham New Street. Happy travels!
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!