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Trains from London Waterloo East to
Reading

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London Waterloo East to Reading by train

Planning a train journey from London Waterloo East to Reading? The trip usually takes about 1hrs 57 mins, covering approximately 37 miles (60 kilometres). With roughly 44 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 £19.90, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

London Waterloo East to Reading Key Stats

Arrival Station

Reading

Departure Station

London Waterloo East

Frequency

44trains
per day

Journey Time

from1hrs 33 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

00:53 / 00:02

Distance

37miles
(60 km)

3 Routes

6 Train Operators

Prices

from£19.90

Travelling from London Waterloo East to Reading by Train

Jump on a Train from London Waterloo East to Reading – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from London Waterloo East to Reading? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 1hrs 57 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo East, the quickest trains can get you there in just 1hrs 33 mins. With approximately 44 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 37-mile (60 km) route usually requires just one change, with South Western Railway, Elizabeth Line, Southeastern, GWR, Southern, Thameslink 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 £19.90, 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!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between London Waterloo East and Reading

Curious about your trip from London Waterloo East to Reading? 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 London Waterloo East and Reading by train?

The travel time between London Waterloo East and Reading by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 1hrs 57 mins & the fastest journey takes 1hrs 33 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between London Waterloo East and Reading by train?

The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo East to Reading is 1hrs 33 mins.

How much does the train from London Waterloo East to Reading cost?

Train ticket prices from London Waterloo East to Reading can start from as little as £19.90 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 London Waterloo East and Reading?

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo East and Reading vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 44 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 00:53, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:02.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between London Waterloo East and Reading?

First class tickets on trains between London Waterloo East and Reading typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between London Waterloo East and Reading?

Amenities on trains between London Waterloo East and Reading can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from London Waterloo East to Reading by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between London Waterloo East 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.

Is it possible to take a direct train from London Waterloo East to Reading?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Waterloo East & Reading. However, there are 44 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from London Waterloo East to Reading?

South Western Railway, Elizabeth Line, Southeastern, GWR, Southern and Thameslink are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo East and Reading.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East and Reading?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East and Reading, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are London Waterloo East to Reading Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Waterloo East to Reading on Monday 28th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Monday 28th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
05:23 London Waterloo East07:23 Reading3 changesHither Green
London Bridge
London Paddington
2 hrs Get Tickets
05:34 London Waterloo East07:25 Reading2 changesLondon Bridge
Farringdon
1 hrs 51 mins Get Tickets
06:04 London Waterloo East07:44 Reading2 changesLondon Bridge
Farringdon
1 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
06:20 London Waterloo East07:55 Reading2 changesLondon Bridge
Farringdon
1 hrs 35 mins Get Tickets
06:34 London Waterloo East08:12 Reading2 changesLondon Bridge
Farringdon
1 hrs 38 mins Get Tickets
06:51 London Waterloo East08:26 Reading2 changesLondon Bridge
Farringdon
1 hrs 35 mins Get Tickets
07:07 London Waterloo East08:42 Reading2 changesLondon Bridge
Farringdon
1 hrs 35 mins Get Tickets
07:21 London Waterloo East08:58 Reading2 changesLondon Bridge
Farringdon
1 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
07:37 London Waterloo East09:11 Reading2 changesLondon Bridge
Farringdon
1 hrs 34 mins Get Tickets
07:50 London Waterloo East09:26 Reading2 changesLondon Bridge
Farringdon
1 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
08:04 London Waterloo East09:38 Reading2 changesLondon Bridge
Farringdon
1 hrs 34 mins Get Tickets
08:37 London Waterloo East10:10 Reading2 changesLondon Bridge
Farringdon
1 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Waterloo East to Reading 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.

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.

Off Peak fares from London Waterloo East to Reading start from £25.90 one way, or £24.00 return

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

Anytime fares from London Waterloo East to Reading are available for £22.10 one way, or £19.90 return

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 London Waterloo East Station

Exploring London Waterloo East Train Station: A Convenient Gateway to Discover the City

Looking to explore the vibrant city of London and beyond? London Waterloo East train station is your perfect starting point. Conveniently situated, the station serves as a vital link, connecting you to numerous destinations within London and across the UK. Let’s dive into the details of what London Waterloo East has to offer and why it's an ideal choice for your travel plans.

Facilities and Amenities at London Waterloo East

Though London Waterloo East is a bustling hub, it provides essential amenities to ensure a smooth experience for travelers. While it lacks a traditional ticket office, fear not—ticket machines are readily available for both purchase and collection of pre-booked tickets. Accessibility is thoughtfully catered for, with accessible ticket machines and step-free access via lifts from Waterloo Main station. Need assistance? Help points are clearly marked, and staff are on hand to lend a helping hand when needed.

For those traveling with youngsters or seeking some comfort, the station hosts heated waiting rooms and accessible toilets with baby-changing facilities. CCTV surveillance is in place to ensure a secure environment throughout your journey. Hungry or in need of caffeine fix? Grab a snack or a hot drink from the coffee shops and vending machines on site—no worries about missing the news as newspapers are available too!

Onward Travel: Connecting You Further

Transportation links play a crucial role in making your journey seamless. London Waterloo East does not disappoint with its comprehensive connections to other parts of the city. The bus alighting point on Sandell Street ensures easy access to local transit and rail replacement services. If you're planning an onward journey by train, numerous exciting routes can spark your travel imagination.

Popular Routes: Embark on an Adventure

Dreaming of exploring iconic locations within and around London? London Waterloo East provides access to some fantastic destinations. Whether you're commuting or planning a day trip to explore new locales, this station links you to areas such as London Bridge, London Charing Cross, and Hither Green. With easy routes to places like East Croydon or Tonbridge, your adventures are just a train ride away.

Why Choose London Waterloo East?

As a commuter or an explorer, stepping through the doors of London Waterloo East gives you the flexibility and freedom to travel with ease. Whether it’s the convenience of arriving at London Bridge or the cultural allure of reaching London Charing Cross, this station offers it all. Its facilities cater to your needs, including accessibility and necessary travel support.

Embark on Your Journey Today!

Booking your ticket is the first step to countless experiences waiting at your fingertips. With easy access to online ticket collection, friendly staff to assist, and comprehensive travel links, London Waterloo East is not just a station—it's the beginning of your next adventure. Time to pack your bags, hop on board, and embrace the journey!

Everything you need to know about Reading Station

Exploring Reading Train Station

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.

Facilities at Reading Station

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.

Onward Travel Options

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.

Popular Travel Routes from Reading

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.

Your Next Journey

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!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from London Waterloo East