Planning a train journey from Preston (Lancs) to Reading? The trip usually takes about 3hrs 57 mins, covering approximately 174 miles (281 kilometres). With roughly 24 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 £41.80, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.
Arrival Station | Reading |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Preston (Lancs) |
Frequency | 24trains per day |
Journey Time | from3hrs 37 mins |
Changes | 1-2no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 05:33 / 00:43 |
Distance | 174miles (281 km) |
4 Routes | Via London Euston & London Paddington Via Birmingham New Street Via Rugby & Coventry Via Manchester Piccadilly |
5 Train Operators | GWR, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Northern Rail |
Prices | from£41.80 |
Jump on a Train from Preston (Lancs) to Reading – It's Quicker Than You Expect!
Considering a train trip from Preston (Lancs) to Reading? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!
Typically, the trip takes about 3hrs 57 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Preston (Lancs), the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 37 mins. With approximately 24 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 174-mile (281 km) route usually requires just one change, with GWR, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Northern Rail 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 £41.80, 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!
The travel time between Preston (Lancs) and Reading by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 57 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 37 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Preston (Lancs) to Reading is 3hrs 37 mins.
Train ticket prices from Preston (Lancs) to Reading can start from as little as £41.80 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 Preston (Lancs) and Reading vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 24 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:33, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:43.
First class tickets on trains between Preston (Lancs) and Reading typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Preston (Lancs) 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 Preston (Lancs) 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 Preston (Lancs) & Reading. However, there are 24 possible journeys which require a change.
GWR, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains and Northern Rail are the main train operating companies running services between Preston (Lancs) and Reading.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Preston (Lancs) 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 | |
| 15:01 Preston (Lancs) | 18:22 Reading | 2 changes | London Euston London Paddington | 3 hrs 21 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:01 Preston (Lancs) | 19:21 Reading | 2 changes | London Euston London Paddington | 3 hrs 20 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:01 Preston (Lancs) | 20:23 Reading | 2 changes | London Euston London Paddington | 3 hrs 22 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:59 Preston (Lancs) | 21:25 Reading | 2 changes | London Euston London Paddington | 3 hrs 26 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 18:18 Preston (Lancs) | 22:38 Reading | 1 change | Birmingham New Street | 4 hrs 20 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 19:07 Preston (Lancs) | 22:41 Reading | 2 changes | London Euston London Paddington | 3 hrs 34 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 20:01 Preston (Lancs) | 23:38 Reading | 2 changes | Rugby Coventry | 3 hrs 37 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 20:59 Preston (Lancs) | 01:14 Reading | 2 changes | London Euston London Paddington | 4 hrs 15 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 21:18 Preston (Lancs) | 04:24 Reading | 2 changes | London Euston London Paddington | 7 hrs 6 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 23:49 Preston (Lancs) | 08:41 Reading | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 8 hrs 52 mins | Get Tickets | |
Whether you're setting off for a scenic trip through the UK, commuting for work, or heading to visit friends and family, Preston (Lancs) train station acts as a gateway to your journey. Situated in the vibrant heart of Lancashire, Preston station offers a comprehensive range of facilities that cater to your travel needs, making it a crucial hub for both local and long-distance travel.
The station is efficiently managed by Avanti West Coast and ensures a seamless experience for travelers, thanks to its extensive amenities and services that cater to millions of passengers each year. From ticketing to refreshments, everything is designed to make your travel as comfortable and convenient as possible.
Preston (Lancs) train station is well-equipped to handle the demands of modern travel. The ticket office is open from early morning until late at night, and with ticket machines available, it's convenient to purchase and collect your tickets, including those bought online. While smartcards aren't issued at the station, helpful staff are always available to assist you at help points, information points, and the ticket office itself.
Accessibility is a key strength of the station, with step-free access throughout, ramps for train access, and accessible ticket machines. Waiting rooms with automatic doors are located on platforms 3 and 4. Although there's no first-class lounge, seating and accessible toilets are available, providing a comfortable environment for everyone. CCTV coverage enhances the safety and security of the station premises.
For those needing to stay connected, the station provides accessible pay phones, although public Wi-Fi isn't available. Should you wish to explore local amenities or grab a quick refreshment, a selection of shops and eateries are conveniently located within the station.
The station is a well-connected transport node that offers a variety of onward travel options. Taxis are readily accessible outside the station entrance, and a freephone service is available within the ticket office area to book them. Preston's local bus services also provide an efficient means of travel within and around the city, albeit with no Metro services available.
Should your journey require car hire, the nearest Eurocar branch is located approximately half a mile from the station. For the environmentally conscious or recreation-minded, a cycle hire is available from Leisure Lakes Bikes, offering a convenient bike shop adjacent to Platform 7. Additionally, the station allows easy pick-up and drop-off for Rail Replacement Services at the short-stay car park on Butler Street.
Preston station serves as a gateway to a plethora of bustling cities and tranquil towns across the UK. With direct routes to major cities like London Euston and Manchester Piccadilly, the station provides fast and frequent services that cater to both business and leisure travelers. Whether you're heading off to the seaside charm of Blackpool North or the cultural richness of Edinburgh, you'll find the station's connections both comprehensive and convenient.
Don't forget, journeys to closer destinations like Liverpool Lime Street or Manchester Airport can be a breeze with excellent train services. Explore more rural settings such as Blackburn or plan your next adventure to vibrant Glasgow Central. Whatever your destination, Preston's connectivity ensures you're never too far from your next adventure.
Whether you're a seasoned commuter or an enthusiastic explorer, Preston (Lancs) train station opens the door to an exciting world of travel opportunities. It stands as a testament to Lancashire's vibrant rail history while seamlessly integrating modern conveniences for today's traveler.
As each train departs, the promise of discovering new places or reconnecting with loved ones begins. Make Preston (Lancs) your starting point for countless journeys, and don't hesitate to snag your travel tickets to make the most of your trip. With a wealth of connections and a rich tapestry of destinations at your disposal, there's no better time than now to explore the wonders that lie beyond Preston's tracks.
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!