A train trip from Chester to Reading takes about 4hrs on average, covering roughly 144 miles (232 kilometres). With around 19 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 £38.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Reading |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Chester |
Frequency | 19trains per day |
Journey Time | from3hrs 5 mins |
Changes | 1-2no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 04:48 / 01:30 |
Distance | 144miles (232 km) |
7 Routes | Via Crewe Via Crewe & Birmingham New Street Via Stafford Via London Euston & London Paddington Via Crewe & Stafford Via Shrewsbury & Newport (South Wales) Via Manchester Piccadilly |
5 Train Operators | CrossCountry, GWR, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales |
Prices | from£38.00 |
Hop on a Train from Chester to Reading – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Chester 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 4hrs. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Reading), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 5 mins. With roughly 19 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 144-mile (232 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of CrossCountry, GWR, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales, 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 £38.00 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 Chester and Reading by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 5 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Chester to Reading is 3hrs 5 mins.
Train ticket prices from Chester to Reading can start from as little as £38.00 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 Chester and Reading vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 19 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:48, and the last train of the day leaves at 01:30.
First class tickets on trains between Chester and Reading typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Chester 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 Chester 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 Chester & Reading. However, there are 19 possible journeys which require a change.
CrossCountry, GWR, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains and Transport for Wales are the main train operating companies running services between Chester and Reading.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Chester and Reading, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Saturday 26th April | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 18:45 Chester | 22:39 Reading | 2 changes | Crewe Birmingham New Street | 3 hrs 54 mins | Get Tickets | |
Nestled in the charming city of Chester, a place rich with history and architecture, Chester Train Station serves as a crucial hub for local and long-distance travelers. Whether you're heading out for a day trip or embarking on a journey to another bustling UK city, Chester station is well-equipped to meet your travel needs.
Chester Train Station provides a range of amenities to ensure a smooth travel experience. The ticket office is open from early morning until late at night, specifically 07:00 to 22:30 on weekdays and 08:00 to 22:30 on Sundays, making it convenient to purchase or collect tickets. There are also accessible ticket machines readily available.
Travelers with accessibility needs will find the station accommodating, with step-free access throughout the station and lifts serving all platforms. There are also accessible toilets, ramps for train access, and wheelchairs available on request. If you need assistance, staff are on hand to help from 03:00 to 01:00 every day.
The station is equipped with essential amenities to enhance your travel experience. You can find refreshment facilities like Costa Coffee, a buffet, and a public house/bar to grab a bite or drink before your journey. WHSmith is available for last-minute shopping needs, though there is no ATM within the premises. While there is no public Wi-Fi, cycling enthusiasts can make use of the 76 cycle parking spaces that are secured with CCTV.
For a more relaxed wait, the waiting rooms, open daily from 03:00 to 01:00, provide a comfortable seating area, though the station does not offer a first-class lounge.
Chester Train Station is well-connected to various modes of transport, ensuring a seamless transition to your next destination. There's a rail replacement bus service located at the bus stop in front of the station, making it easy to catch a connection if there's disruption on the rail network.
For those who prefer taxis, they are conveniently stationed right at the front. If you're opting for bus travel, the station sits at the heart of a network operated by First and Arriva, offering routes within Chester and to nearby towns. For ease of travel around Chester by bus, consider purchasing a Chester PlusBus ticket, which offers discount-priced unlimited travel and is available when you buy your train ticket.
Whether you're planning a direct journey or a leisurely trip across regions, Chester Station is your gateway to a myriad of destinations. Hop on a train to experience the vibrant culture and landmarks of Liverpool Lime Street or enjoy the bustling cityscape of Manchester Piccadilly.
For a taste of the capital, you can catch a train that takes you directly from Chester to London Euston. These journeys, among other popular routes, ensure that Chester is not just a station but a hub connecting you to diverse experiences across the UK.
Chester Train Station stands as more than just a transit point, offering necessary conveniences and facilities to bolster your travel journey. From ticketing to waiting areas, the station fosters an environment that accommodates both brief and extended stays. As you step through its corridors, you're welcomed into a network that will lead you to many fascinating journeys. Next time you plan a travel itinerary, know that Chester can be your starting point for many remarkable adventures. Safe 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!