Bus: Choose Megabus for affordable tickets from Reading to London starting at just £2.99. Ideal for budget travelers. Around 1h 35m trip.
Over 15 schedules for your journey.
Check out the cheapest buses departing from Reading to London
| Company | Departure time/Arrival time | Departure Station/Arrival Station | Transport Type | Price | View schedule |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 1h 35m Megabus | Rail Station North Entrance Stop NcVictoria Coach Station | bus | £2.99 | |
| 1h 45m Megabus | Vastern Road Outside North Entrance InterchangeVictoria Coach Station | bus | £5.99 | |
| 1h 35m Megabus | Vastern Road Outside North Entrance InterchangeVictoria Coach Station | bus | £5.99 | |
 | 2h 40m Reading Railair | Reading StationLondon Victoria | bus | £31.8 | |
| 2h 10m Reading Railair | Reading StationLondon Earl s Court | bus | £31.8 |
It takes an average of 2h 22m to travel from Reading to London by bus, over a distance of around 59 km. There are normally 15 buses per day traveling from Reading to London and tickets for this journey start from £2.99 when you book in advance.
| Distance | 59 km | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £2.99 | |
| Frequency | 15 | |
| Fastest | 1h 35m |
Whether you're seeking speed, comfort, affordability, or a blend of all, our detailed overview covers the key players in the industry. Get insights into schedules, booking tips, and amenities offered by each company, ensuring your journey between these iconic cities is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Embark on a seamless journey from Reading to London, where convenience meets scenic landscapes. Discover quick rail links and tranquil commutes, enhancing your travel experience amidst the UK’s heartland. Perfect for day trips or business, connect effortlessly to the capital.
Exploring options from Reading to London reveals distinct differences in travel time, cost, and experience between buses and trains:
Travel Time: Trains offer a speedy commute of approximately 30 minutes to an hour, ideal for quick trips. Buses take longer, usually around 1 to 1.5 hours, suitable for those not in a rush.
Cost: Buses typically provide more wallet-friendly fares, attracting budget travelers, while train tickets might be slightly higher but save time.
Experience: Bus rides let you enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace, perfect for relaxed voyagers. Trains are well-suited for efficient, comfortable, and productive journeys.
🧳 For a short trip covering about 40 km (roughly 25 miles), review our full guide to enhance your travel decisions.
For those debating between bus and train travel from Reading to London, consider these distinctions:
Cost and Budget: Buses are easier on the pocket, catering excellently to budget travelers. Trains offer good value too but tend to be slightly more expensive.
Speed and Time-Efficiency: Trains whisk you to London rapidly, typically in under an hour, perfect for time-conscious commuters. Bus rides are longer but afford a leisurely journey.
Boarding and Convenience: Trains win on quick, efficient boarding processes, ideal for hassle-free trips. Buses also promise easy boarding, with fewer checkpoints than alternative methods.
Setting off from Reading to London offers a spectrum of economical travel options suited for various needs and budgets. National Express and Megabus welcome passengers with fares ranging from a mere £5 to £12, featuring regular services and amenities conducive to a comfortable journey. Alternatively, train travel with Great Western Railway or South Western Railway, varying from £10 to £30, offers the allure of faster travel times coupled with the comfort of spacious seating, ideal for those seeking efficiency.
Delve into a journey filled with value as we present various cost-effective travel methods to complement your traveling style and fiscal limits. Whether you’re part of a family seeking room to roam, a business traveler in need of a quiet spot, or a solo adventurer on a budget, there’s a tailored option just for you. Explore our reliable coach services, swifter trains, or embrace carpooling with BlaBlaCar for a sociable ride, each promising substantial savings without compromising on your travel experience.
The price of tickets from Reading to London is cheaper for a one-way standard class ticket if you book in advance. Booking on the day is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or class.
Most of the companies release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper tickets from Reading to London by booking early.
Many of the services are also popular commuter services, lots of companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider traveling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting transport. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Embark on a London adventure equipped with the season’s essentials, ensuring comfort across the city’s changeable climate. Whether witnessing spring blooms, basking in summer warmth, crunching autumn leaves, or strolling through winter wonderlands, your packing list is your gateway to seamless travel. Discover the savvy traveler’s guide to London’s seasonal pack essentials.
Travel Tips
"Research sightseeing opportunities along your route, such as landmarks, tourist attractions, or scenic routes, and plan your itinerary accordingly."
"Choosing the right seat, such as one with extralegroom or a window seat, can help maximize comfort during your journey."
"Check the pet policies of the bus or train company you are traveling with, and make sure your pet is allowed on board."
"Learn basic phrases in the local language, such as greetings or common phrases, to show respect and build connections with locals."
"Keep your valuables like cash, passport, andimportant documents in a secure place, like a neck wallet or a money belt.Avoid carrying large sums of money or expensive jewelry."
"Choose a mode of transportation that allows you to work comfortably, such as a train with spacious seating or a bus with Wi-Fi."
"Research the local culture and customs of the places you will be traveling through, and learn about the history, traditions, and values of the people."
"Bring a refillable water bottle and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your journey."
"Traveling during off-peak hours can save moneyon bus and train fares, as prices tend to be lower during non-peak times."
"Arrive on time for your bus or train, and be respectful of other passengers' schedules."
"Consider choosing eco-friendly transport options like buses or trains instead of driving alone in a car, which can help reduce your carbon footprint."
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Discover the top transit hubs with our comprehensive list of the busiest and most important bus and train stations. Find out which stations offer the best connections and travel options for your next trip. Plan your trip with ease and efficiency by exploring our guide to the key transit hubs.