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Trains from Reading to
Preston (Lancs)

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Reading to Preston (Lancs) by train

Considering a train trip from Reading to Preston (Lancs)? The journey typically lasts around 4hrs 4 mins and spans about 174 miles (281 kilometres). With approximately 20 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 £41.80, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

Reading to Preston (Lancs) Key Stats

Arrival Station

Preston (Lancs)

Departure Station

Reading

Frequency

20trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 36 mins

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

02:24 / 00:30

Distance

174miles
(281 km)

4 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£41.80

Travelling from Reading to Preston (Lancs) by Train

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

The typical travel time is about 4hrs 4 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 36 mins. With approximately 20 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 174 miles (281 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, GWR 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 £41.80, 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 Preston (Lancs)!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Reading and Preston (Lancs)

Curious about your trip from Reading to Preston (Lancs)? 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 Preston (Lancs) by train?

The travel time between Reading and Preston (Lancs) by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 4 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 36 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Reading and Preston (Lancs) by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Reading to Preston (Lancs) is 3hrs 36 mins.

How much does the train from Reading to Preston (Lancs) cost?

Train ticket prices from Reading to Preston (Lancs) 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.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Reading and Preston (Lancs)?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Reading and Preston (Lancs) vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 20 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 Preston (Lancs)?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Reading and Preston (Lancs)?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Reading to Preston (Lancs) by train?

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Reading & Preston (Lancs). However, there are 20 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Reading to Preston (Lancs)?

West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast and GWR are the main train operating companies running services between Reading and Preston (Lancs).

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Reading and Preston (Lancs)?

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

When are Reading to Preston (Lancs) Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Reading to Preston (Lancs) on Saturday 26th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Saturday 26th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
08:12 Reading11:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Paddington
London Euston
3 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
08:15 Reading11:51 Preston (Lancs)1 changeBirmingham New Street
3 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
09:12 Reading12:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Paddington
London Euston
3 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
09:15 Reading12:51 Preston (Lancs)1 changeBirmingham New Street
3 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
10:17 Reading13:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Paddington
London Euston
3 hrs 22 mins Get Tickets
11:14 Reading14:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Paddington
London Euston
3 hrs 25 mins Get Tickets
12:12 Reading15:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Paddington
London Euston
3 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
12:15 Reading15:51 Preston (Lancs)1 changeBirmingham New Street
3 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
13:12 Reading16:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Paddington
London Euston
3 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
13:15 Reading16:51 Preston (Lancs)1 changeBirmingham New Street
3 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
14:12 Reading17:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Paddington
London Euston
3 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
14:15 Reading17:52 Preston (Lancs)1 changeBirmingham New Street
3 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Reading to Preston (Lancs) 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 Preston (Lancs) start from as little as £41.80

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 Preston (Lancs) start from £92.00 one way, or £131.50 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 Preston (Lancs) are available for £92.90 one way, or £185.80 return

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

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from Reading to Preston (Lancs) is £22.25 & the average saving on this route is £12.38!

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 Preston (Lancs) Station

Welcome to Preston (Lancs) Train Station

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.

Station Facilities & Amenities

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.

Onward Travel Options

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.

Popular Destinations from Preston

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.

Your Ticket to Exploring

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.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Reading