A train trip from Harpenden to Reading takes about 1hrs 38 mins on average, covering roughly 36 miles (58 kilometres). With around 89 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 £37.70, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Reading |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Harpenden |
Frequency | 89trains per day |
Journey Time | from1hrs 21 mins |
Changes | 1-2no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 00:17 / 23:57 |
Distance | 36miles (58 km) |
5 Routes | Via London St Pancras International & Ealing Broadway Via London St Pancras International & London Paddington Via Farringdon & London Paddington Via Farringdon Via Luton Airport Parkway & Farringdon |
3 Train Operators | Elizabeth Line, GWR, Thameslink |
Prices | from£37.70 |
Hop on a Train from Harpenden to Reading – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Harpenden 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 38 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 21 mins. With roughly 89 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 36-mile (58 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Elizabeth Line, GWR, Thameslink, 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 £37.70 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 Harpenden and Reading by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 1hrs 38 mins & the fastest journey takes 1hrs 21 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Harpenden to Reading is 1hrs 21 mins.
Train ticket prices from Harpenden to Reading can start from as little as £37.70 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 Harpenden and Reading vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 89 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 00:17, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:57.
First class tickets on trains between Harpenden and Reading typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Harpenden 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 Harpenden 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 Harpenden & Reading. However, there are 89 possible journeys which require a change.
Elizabeth Line, GWR and Thameslink are the main train operating companies running services between Harpenden and Reading.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Harpenden and Reading, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Friday 25th April | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 14:38 Harpenden | 16:11 Reading | 2 changes | Farringdon London Paddington | 1 hrs 33 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:52 Harpenden | 16:23 Reading | 2 changes | Farringdon London Paddington | 1 hrs 31 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:08 Harpenden | 16:38 Reading | 2 changes | Farringdon London Paddington | 1 hrs 30 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:22 Harpenden | 16:46 Reading | 2 changes | Farringdon London Paddington | 1 hrs 24 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:38 Harpenden | 17:11 Reading | 2 changes | Farringdon London Paddington | 1 hrs 33 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:52 Harpenden | 17:23 Reading | 2 changes | Farringdon London Paddington | 1 hrs 31 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:52 Harpenden | 17:33 Reading | 1 change | Farringdon | 1 hrs 41 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:55 Harpenden | 17:33 Reading | 2 changes | Farringdon London Paddington | 1 hrs 38 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:08 Harpenden | 17:41 Reading | 2 changes | Farringdon London Paddington | 1 hrs 33 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:26 Harpenden | 17:53 Reading | 2 changes | Farringdon London Paddington | 1 hrs 27 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:38 Harpenden | 18:11 Reading | 2 changes | Farringdon London Paddington | 1 hrs 33 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:52 Harpenden | 18:22 Reading | 2 changes | Farringdon London Paddington | 1 hrs 30 mins | Get Tickets | |
Situated in the heart of Hertfordshire, Harpenden Train Station is your gateway to a myriad of travel opportunities across the UK. Whether you’re planning a city day out, a leisurely weekend escape, or an important business trip, Harpenden provides seamless connections and diverse commuting options. The station's facilities are geared towards providing ease and accessibility for all travelers, making it a convenient starting point for your journey.
Harpenden Train Station offers a variety of facilities designed to make your travel experience as smooth as possible. The ticket office operates throughout the week, with extended hours to accommodate early birds and those traveling late. Conveniently, there are ticket machines available for quick purchases and collections, which support the use of Disabled Persons Railcard discounts.
For those needing accessibility support, Harpenden is fully equipped with step-free access throughout the station and offers assistance options for easy boarding. If you're cycling to the station, you'll find ample bicycle storage with over 500 spaces. Although the station does not have waiting rooms, seating is available, and a coffee shop on-site ensures those pre-travel caffeine needs are met.
In terms of security, the station houses CCTV cameras to maintain a safe environment. Although there are no customer help points, station staff are available to provide assistance when necessary. It’s recommended to communicate your needs upon arrival or pre-book assistance for a more tailored experience.
Getting to your final destination from Harpenden is easy with efficient transport links. Taxis are conveniently located right outside the station, providing a seamless transition between transport modes. Moreover, if the rail service is ever disrupted, rail replacement buses are available to ensure your journey continues without too much delay. Local bus service information is displayed at the station for easy reference and planning.
Harpenden is exceptionally positioned for travel to numerous popular destinations. Catch a train to London St Pancras International, only a short journey, or explore local stops like St Albans City and Luton. For those needing to access the city’s business hubs, regular services to London Blackfriars and City Thameslink are available. Visiting the vibrant cultural epicenters? Swift journeys to Farringdon or London Bridge are at your fingertips. Indeed, whether it’s the bustling scenes of Tottenham Court Road or the tranquil surroundings of Bedford, Harpenden serves as the perfect starting point.
Furthermore, Harpenden simplifies international travel preparations with routes to Luton Airport Parkway and transports you to Elstree and Borehamwood should your plans include a visit to filming studios or serene pastures.
As you prepare for your upcoming adventures via Harpenden Train Station, remember to check the latest schedules and travel advisories. Secure your tickets in advance and make the most of discounts available with the right railcards. With its plethora of convenient connections and supportive amenities, Harpenden invites you to explore beyond borders effortlessly.
So next time you're planning your travel itinerary, consider Harpenden Train Station as your launchpad, where each journey promises to be as hassle-free as possible.
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!