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Trains from Reading West to
Helsby

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Reading West to Helsby by train

Considering a train trip from Reading West to Helsby? The journey typically lasts around 5hrs 29 mins and spans about 146 miles (235 kilometres). With approximately 22 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 £38.00, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

Reading West to Helsby Key Stats

Arrival Station

Helsby

Departure Station

Reading West

Frequency

22trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 29 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:08 / 23:52

Distance

146miles
(235 km)

8 Routes

6 Train Operators

Prices

from£38.00

Travelling from Reading West to Helsby by Train

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

The typical travel time is about 5hrs 29 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 29 mins. With approximately 22 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 146 miles (235 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Northern Rail, West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, 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 £38.00, 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 Helsby!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Reading West and Helsby

Curious about your trip from Reading West to Helsby? 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 West and Helsby by train?

The travel time between Reading West and Helsby by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 29 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 29 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Reading West to Helsby is 3hrs 29 mins.

How much does the train from Reading West to Helsby cost?

Train ticket prices from Reading West to Helsby 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 Reading West and Helsby?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Reading West and Helsby vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 22 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:08, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:52.

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

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

What amenities are available on trains between Reading West and Helsby?

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

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Reading West & Helsby. However, there are 22 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Reading West to Helsby?

Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Northern Rail, West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry and GWR are the main train operating companies running services between Reading West and Helsby.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Reading West and Helsby?

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

When are Reading West to Helsby Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Reading West to Helsby on Sunday 27th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Sunday 27th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
08:29 Reading West13:29 Helsby3 changesReading
Birmingham New Street
Runcorn
5 hrs Get Tickets
09:29 Reading West14:29 Helsby3 changesReading
Birmingham New Street
Runcorn
5 hrs Get Tickets
10:28 Reading West15:29 Helsby3 changesReading
Birmingham New Street
Runcorn
5 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
11:28 Reading West16:29 Helsby3 changesReading
Birmingham New Street
Runcorn
5 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
12:28 Reading West17:29 Helsby3 changesReading
Birmingham New Street
Runcorn
5 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
13:28 Reading West18:29 Helsby3 changesReading
Birmingham New Street
Runcorn
5 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
14:28 Reading West18:56 Helsby3 changesReading
Newport (South Wales)
Chester
4 hrs 28 mins Get Tickets
15:27 Reading West19:47 Helsby3 changesReading
Birmingham New Street
Warrington Bank Quay
4 hrs 20 mins Get Tickets
16:28 Reading West20:47 Helsby3 changesReading
Birmingham New Street
Warrington Bank Quay
4 hrs 19 mins Get Tickets
17:28 Reading West21:29 Helsby3 changesReading
Birmingham New Street
Runcorn
4 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
18:28 Reading West23:31 Helsby3 changesReading
Birmingham New Street
Runcorn
5 hrs 3 mins Get Tickets
19:29 Reading West05:51 Helsby3 changesReading
Newport (South Wales)
Chester
10 hrs 22 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Reading West to Helsby 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 West to Helsby 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.

Off Peak fares from Reading West to Helsby start from £87.30 one way, or £115.90 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 West to Helsby are available for £120.20 one way, or £240.20 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 West Station

Welcome to Reading West: Your Gateway to the Thames Valey

Nestled in the charming environs of Berkshire, Reading West train station serves as a scenic launchpad for your expeditions across the UK. Whether you're a commuter, a weekend explorer, or simply passing through, this station combines modest comforts with essential travel amenities. As a railway enthusiast or a traveler seeking the best routes and travel options from Reading West, you are in the right place. Let’s explore all this station has to offer and how it can serve your travel needs.

Facilities and Amenities at Reading West

Though compact, Reading West train station is fully equipped to make your journey seamless. Ticket purchasing is straightforward with an operational ticket office from 06:30 to 10:45 during weekdays, and for your convenience, ticket machines are readily accessible 24/7. Collecting tickets purchased online is a breeze too, with dedicated machines available for this purpose.

The station is partially accessible for passengers with mobility needs, though a steep ramp allows access to only Platform 1. Reading West is also installed with CCTV for added security, making it a safe spot for travelers. Departing or catching up on train schedules? Check the electronic departure screens or listen out for announcements to stay updated.

Onward Travel: Connecting You to Further Adventures

Planning to extend your journey beyond Reading West is just as easy. The station is well-connected with local transportation, including a rail replacement service located conveniently at bus stops on Oxford Road, ideal for travel both into and out of Reading. Although no taxi service is permanently available at the station, Reading West connects effortlessly with the broader bus network, allowing you to print your travel directions for ease.

If your journey requires air travel, connections to Heathrow or Gatwick are easily accessible by changing at Reading, whereas Bristol Airport is within reach by heading to Bristol Temple Meads. For green travelers, bicycle hire options are on standby for a more eco-friendly supplementation to your travels.

Routes from Reading West: Where Will You Go Next?

When it comes to embarking on an adventure or hitting the cities for business, Reading West makes for a strategic starting point. Fancy a short trip? Consider hopping on a train to Reading or discover the sprawling cityscape of London by heading to London Paddington. For those longing for a touch of countryside tranquility, destinations like Newbury and Basingstoke await.

Moreover, you'll find trains linking Reading West to delightful spots such as the vibrant town of Wokingham, the picturesque landscapes of Oxford, and the charming environs of Thatcham. Whether it’s an urban escape or a rural retreat you’re after, your options are plentiful.

Embrace Your Journey with Peace of Mind

At Reading West train station, every traveler is valued and supported in their unique journey. The station resources are robust, yet simple enough to navigate easily. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to the staff present, or consult the available help points throughout the station.

Remember, traveling is not just about reaching a destination; it’s about the experiences garnered along the way. Get ready to explore with Reading West as your trusty travel companion. Your journey, whether grand or quaint, truly begins here.

Everything you need to know about Helsby Station

Exploring Helsby Train Station

Nestled within the picturesque village of Helsby in Cheshire, Helsby Train Station serves as a vital link for locals and visitors alike. Offering a glimpse into the surrounding regions' rich history and scenic beauty, the station is an ideal starting point for numerous adventures. While its amenities might be modest compared to major city stations, Helsby presents a quaintness and charm all its own. Inns, rolling hills, and historic cathedrals can easily be part of your itinerary when starting your journey at Helsby.

Station Details and Facilities

Helsby Train Station, though lacking some of the advanced facilities of larger stations, handles the essentials with efficiency. It does not feature a traditional ticket office but provides ticket machines that are user-friendly with touchscreen controls and accept major debit and credit cards. These can be found on the Chester-bound platform, making it convenient for passengers to collect pre-purchased tickets online. For those who need auditory assistance, induction loops are available at the station.

If you have any questions during your visit or need help, there are customer help points available where staff can assist you, though luggage storage options are currently unavailable. Safety is considered here, as CCTV is operational at the station. Accessibility might present a bit of a challenge due to certain platforms only being accessible via the footbridge, but step-free access is available from the car park to some parts of the station. Car parking is managed by Transport for Wales, with 20 spaces available free of charge, though there are no designated accessible spaces.

Transport Links from Helsby Station

Getting to and from Helsby Train Station is relatively straightforward. While there are no taxi ranks or car hire services directly at the station, the nearest bus stops are conveniently located on the main road. A rail replacement service is also accessible at a nearby bus stop on Chester Road, just a stone's throw from the Junoon restaurant.

For those interested in cycling, the station offers bicycle parking stands on both Platforms 1 and 2, though there are no facilities for bike hire. This makes it easier for visitors to explore the idyllic suburbs of Helsby on two wheels, though having your own bike would be necessary.

Popular Routes from Helsby

If you're planning to explore further afield, Helsby Train Station offers a range of popular destinations. Consider taking a trip to Chester, renowned for its Roman walls and historic architecture, or venture towards the vibrant cityscape of Liverpool Lime Street. Train journeys from Helsby also connect passengers to the bustling Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Victoria, cultural hubs that offer an intriguing mix of history and modernity.

Those with wanderlust might find the route to London Euston via Helsby appealing, perfect for a swift weekend getaway. Trains are also available for Frodsham, and services towards Warrington Bank Quay and Runcorn East mean regional travel is straightforward and efficient. With numerous connections to places like Llandudno, Leeds, and Shrewsbury, Helsby serves as a quaint yet pivotal station for your travel needs.

Final Thoughts

Helsby Train Station might not feature all the comprehensive amenities of a metropolitan hub, yet it acts as an efficient gateway for both local commuters and explorers. Its strategic location in Cheshire opens pathways to scenic retreats, historic sites, and vibrant cities. With the assortment of travel options it provides, Helsby is more than a stop along the way; it's your starting point for discoveries. Whether you're organizing a day trip or an extended journey, Helsby is poised to be your launching pad to an array of experiences.

For tickets and travel times from Helsby, visit the respective links provided to plan your seamless journey across the UK.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Reading West