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Trains from Reading to
Ayr

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Reading to Ayr by train

Considering a train trip from Reading to Ayr? The journey typically lasts around 8hrs and spans about 314 miles (506 kilometres). With approximately 19 trains running each day, you're spoiled for choice when scheduling your travel. By booking your tickets in advance, you could secure fares starting from just £58.00, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

Reading to Ayr Key Stats

Arrival Station

Ayr

Departure Station

Reading

Frequency

19trains
per day

Journey Time

from7hrs 9 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

02:24 / 00:30

Distance

314miles
(506 km)

3 Routes

6 Train Operators

Prices

from£58.00

Travelling from Reading to Ayr by Train

Embark on a train journey from Reading to Ayr, and you'll find it's quicker than you might anticipate!

The typical travel time is about 8hrs, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 7hrs 9 mins. With approximately 19 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 314 miles (506 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like Caledonian Sleeper, ScotRail, Avanti West Coast, GWR, First TransPennine Express, CrossCountry offer comfortable seating with plenty of room for your luggage.

Here's the best part: by booking your tickets in advance, you can snag fares starting from only £58.00, offering a substantial saving over buying tickets at the last minute. For even more savings, consider traveling during Off-Peak times or using a Railcard.

Ready to secure those budget-friendly tickets? Use our Journey Planner to discover the latest deals and keep your travel costs down. Dive into more travel tips below or consult our timetable for up-to-date train schedules. All aboard for Ayr!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Reading and Ayr

Curious about your trip from Reading to Ayr? 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 Reading and Ayr by train?

The travel time between Reading and Ayr by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 8hrs & the fastest journey takes 7hrs 9 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Reading and Ayr by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Reading to Ayr is 7hrs 9 mins.

How much does the train from Reading to Ayr cost?

Train ticket prices from Reading to Ayr can start from as little as £58.00 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 Reading and Ayr?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Reading and Ayr 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 02:24, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:30.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Reading and Ayr?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Reading and Ayr?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Reading to Ayr by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Reading and Ayr. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Ayr, 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 Reading to Ayr?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Reading & Ayr. However, there are 19 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Reading to Ayr?

Caledonian Sleeper, ScotRail, Avanti West Coast, GWR, First TransPennine Express and CrossCountry are the main train operating companies running services between Reading and Ayr.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Reading and Ayr?

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

When are Reading to Ayr Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Reading to Ayr 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
22:26 Reading08:52 Ayr3 changesLondon Paddington
London Euston
Glasgow Central
10 hrs 26 mins Get Tickets
23:55 Reading12:22 Ayr3 changesLondon Paddington
London Euston
Glasgow Central
12 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Reading to Ayr 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 Reading to Ayr start from as little as £58.00

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.

Off Peak fares from Reading to Ayr start from £130.40 one way, or £186.40 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 Reading to Ayr are available for £134.90 one way, or £269.80 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 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!

Everything you need to know about Ayr Station

Welcome to Ayr Train Station

Nestled in the scenic landscape of South Ayrshire, Ayr Train Station is a bustling hub for travelers keen on exploring the charming town of Ayr and beyond. Whether you're a local commuting to work or a tourist embarking on a Scottish adventure, Ayr Station serves as an excellent starting point. With its range of facilities and connections, stepping onto the platform is just the beginning of your journey.

Ayr Station Facilities

Ayr Train Station is well-equipped to meet the needs of all travelers. The ticket office operates from the early hours of 5:30 AM until late at night at 11:15 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, while Sundays offer slightly adjusted times. For your convenience, there are ticket machines available for easy purchase and collection, including accessible machines. The station also offers step-free access to most platforms, making it accessible for those with mobility challenges. However, please note that there are no toilets or refreshment facilities available on-site.

You'll find help points and an induction loop throughout the station, emphasizing customer support and inclusivity. If you need assistance, knowledgeable staff are available from early morning to midnight most days of the week, eager to provide any information or support you may require.

Transport Links to and from Ayr Station

Ayr Station is more than a standalone travel hub. It connects seamlessly with various forms of local transport to ensure that reaching your final destination is as smooth as possible. Buses servicing the area can be accessed conveniently from the station’s car park. For an exact bus pickup location, you can use the what3words reference. Additionally, taxis are accessible through TrainTaxi, offering direct transportation straight from the station.

Popular Routes from Ayr

Venturing from Ayr opens up a world of travel possibilities across Scotland. Why not take a scenic train journey from Ayr to Glasgow Central? You can reach the vibrant city center with ease. If you're setting your sights elsewhere, trains from Ayr link you to places like Paisley Gilmour Street, Edinburgh Waverley, and even Prestwick International Airport. From calm seaside escapes to vibrant cityscapes, the train routes from Ayr Station are perfect for both routine commutes and leisurely explorations.

Here's a glimpse of some popular routes you might consider: head from Ayr to Irvine, Prestwick Town, or even venture as far as Edinburgh or Motherwell. These journeys promise picturesque landscapes and a comfortable ride.

Ending Your Journey

Ultimately, Ayr Train Station is a pivotal transit point that caters to both immediate travel needs and ensures connections onward across the region. With its accessible facilities and unyielding dedication to customer service, the station is harmoniously aligned with the serene yet vibrant town of Ayr. Ensure to check train times and ticket availability on various routes for a seamless travel experience.

Whether you're setting off for a day of work or the adventure of a lifetime, Ayr Train Station promises to be a robust start to your journey through Scotland's beautiful expanses. Safe travels!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Reading