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Trains from Liverpool James Street to
Reading Stations

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Liverpool James Street to Reading Stations by train

Planning a train journey from Liverpool James Street to Reading Stations? The trip usually takes about 4hrs 18 mins, covering approximately 159 miles (256 kilometres). With roughly 35 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options to suit your schedule. Booking your tickets ahead of time can snag you fares as low as £38.00, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

Liverpool James Street to Reading Stations Key Stats

Arrival Station

Reading Stations

Departure Station

Liverpool James Street

Frequency

35trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 47 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:54 / 23:58

Distance

159miles
(256 km)

7 Routes

6 Train Operators

Prices

from£38.00

Travelling from Liverpool James Street to Reading Stations by Train

Jump on a Train from Liverpool James Street to Reading Stations – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from Liverpool James Street to Reading Stations? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 4hrs 18 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Liverpool James Street, the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 47 mins. With approximately 35 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 159-mile (256 km) route usually requires just one change, with Transport for Wales, West Midlands Trains, GWR, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Merseyrail providing comfortable seating and ample luggage space – because being cramped isn't anyone's idea of fun!

The best news? By booking early, you can find tickets starting at just £38.00, a significant saving compared to last-minute purchases. To save even more, consider traveling during Off-Peak hours or using a Railcard to keep your expenses down.

Ready to grab those low-cost tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest discounts and keep your budget happy. Explore more travel tips below or check our timetable for current train schedules. All aboard to Reading Stations!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Liverpool James Street and Reading Stations

Curious about your trip from Liverpool James Street to Reading Stations? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between Liverpool James Street and Reading Stations by train?

The travel time between Liverpool James Street and Reading Stations by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 18 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 47 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Liverpool James Street and Reading Stations by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Liverpool James Street to Reading Stations is 3hrs 47 mins.

How much does the train from Liverpool James Street to Reading Stations cost?

Train ticket prices from Liverpool James Street to Reading Stations 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.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Liverpool James Street and Reading Stations?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Liverpool James Street and Reading Stations vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 35 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:54, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:58.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Liverpool James Street and Reading Stations?

First class tickets on trains between Liverpool James Street and Reading Stations typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Liverpool James Street and Reading Stations?

Amenities on trains between Liverpool James Street and Reading Stations can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Liverpool James Street to Reading Stations by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Liverpool James Street and Reading Stations. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Reading Stations, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Liverpool James Street to Reading Stations?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Liverpool James Street & Reading Stations. However, there are 35 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Liverpool James Street to Reading Stations?

Transport for Wales, West Midlands Trains, GWR, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry and Merseyrail are the main train operating companies running services between Liverpool James Street and Reading Stations.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Liverpool James Street and Reading Stations?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Liverpool James Street and Reading Stations, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Liverpool James Street to Reading Stations Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Liverpool James Street to Reading Stations on Friday 25th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Friday 25th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
09:29 Liverpool James Street13:11 Reading3 changesLiverpool Lime Street
London Euston
London Paddington
3 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
09:49 Liverpool James Street13:40 Reading3 changesLiverpool Lime Street
London Euston
London Paddington
3 hrs 51 mins Get Tickets
09:54 Liverpool James Street13:41 Reading2 changesLiverpool Lime Street
Birmingham New Street
3 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
10:29 Liverpool James Street14:11 Reading3 changesLiverpool Lime Street
London Euston
London Paddington
3 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
10:54 Liverpool James Street14:42 Reading2 changesLiverpool Lime Street
Birmingham New Street
3 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
11:19 Liverpool James Street15:07 Reading2 changesLiverpool Lime Street
Birmingham New Street
3 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
11:29 Liverpool James Street15:11 Reading3 changesLiverpool Lime Street
London Euston
London Paddington
3 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
11:54 Liverpool James Street15:42 Reading2 changesLiverpool Lime Street
Birmingham New Street
3 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
12:29 Liverpool James Street16:11 Reading3 changesLiverpool Lime Street
London Euston
London Paddington
3 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
12:54 Liverpool James Street16:40 Reading2 changesLiverpool Lime Street
Birmingham New Street
3 hrs 46 mins Get Tickets
13:29 Liverpool James Street17:11 Reading3 changesLiverpool Lime Street
London Euston
London Paddington
3 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
13:54 Liverpool James Street17:40 Reading2 changesLiverpool Lime Street
Birmingham New Street
3 hrs 46 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Liverpool James Street to Reading Stations journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Advance fares from Liverpool James Street to Reading Stations start from as little as £38.00

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

Split ticketing means that instead of purchasing one rail ticket for your journey we automatically find and help you book two or more tickets instead, covering exactly the same journey. We call it our FairSplit.

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about Liverpool James Street Station

Uncovering the Essentials: Liverpool James Street Train Station

Liverpool James Street train station, nestled in the heart of Liverpool, is more than just a hub for commuters and travelers. Whether you're a daily commuter or a tourist keen to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Liverpool, knowing your way around the local transit stops can significantly enhance your journey. The station’s architecture is a testament to Liverpool's historic past, yet it serves as a bustling magnet of modernity today.

Among the various train stations operating in the UK, Liverpool James Street is unique due to its strategic proximity to the waterfront and the bustling Liverpool One shopping complex. This position makes it ideal not just for local commuting but also for forging onward connections to other popular destinations. The station might not have its own ticket office or ticket machine on site, but travelers can collect their tickets at the nearby ticket office, making travel planning a breeze.

Exploring Facilities at Liverpool James Street

Liverpool James Street station offers several amenities despite the absence of a dedicated ticket office and collection points for tickets purchased online. The station ensures accessibility with step-free routes to all platforms, effectively catering to those with mobility needs. Elevators whisk passengers from James Street to the platforms, classifying the station under Category A for accessibility. Additionally, seating areas are available for those waiting for their train.

For those who need information or assistance during their travels, the station extends customer support through staff presence at specific times. From early morning till late at night, help points are available to inform travelers of departure, arrival, and transit options. At Liverpool James Street, induction loops for the hearing impaired and secure ticket barriers streamline passenger movement yet bolster safety.

While the station does not host an array of shops or extensive refreshment services onsite, nearby facilities in Liverpool One are open to cater to shopping and dining desires. Travelers should note the lack of luggage storage and secure bicycle storage, although CCTV monitoring is active ensuring the safety and security of the premises.

Transport Links: Perfectly Connected

Getting to and from Liverpool James Street is straightforward thanks to effective transport links. Even without a taxi rank on site, travelers can readily access bus services for commuting across the city. For instance, should you require information on the local transit system or wish to book travel to Liverpool John Lennon Airport, this can be easily arranged along with rail tickets directly from Merseyrail stations.

Airport transfers via the 86A or 80A bus routes ensure a smooth journey from Liverpool South Parkway, taking you to the terminal in just about ten minutes. Such ease of interconnectivity makes the station a convenient launch pad for stress-free air travel experiences.

For those yearning for suburban retreats or exploring Liverpool's delightful surrounding neighborhoods, frequent services from Liverpool James Street whisk passengers to many sought-after destinations. From bustling hubs like Birkenhead Hamilton Square, New Brighton, Wallasey Grove Road, to the serene country tones of Chester, train journeys are safe and comfortable.

Popular Routes from Liverpool James Street

The station serves as a gateway to many charming destinations. For instances, trains from Liverpool James Street will take you to Birkenhead North or the lovely vistas of Port Sunlight in no time. Whether you're heading to Hooton or wishing to explore Bebington, every train trip promises a new adventure. Other well-traveled routes include connections to Green Lane, Moreton, and even the historical ambiance of Chester. Each journey is ripe with different adventures waiting for you.

Experience the inviting charm of the seaside at Hoylake or indulge in cultural explorations along the Wirral Peninsula with ease.

Planning Your Visit or Next Adventure

While Liverpool James Street station is compact, its blend of history, connectivity, and practical amenities make it a significant travel hub. A journey from this station is a great way to explore a variety of destinations across the region. When planning your visit, don't forget to check out the National Rail services, which can provide ongoing travel assistance, including booking help for those who may require it.

Whether you're in town for business or pleasure, Liverpool James Street station has you covered. So next time you're in Liverpool, let James Street be your launching pad for all the adventures the area has to offer, ensuring your travels are as seamless as possible. Grab your tickets, hop on board, and happy travels!

Reading Stations

The following stations are part of this group. Click a station for more information.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Liverpool James Street