How much does a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Reading cost?

The average train ticket price from Manchester to Reading is $66. The best way to find cheap train tickets from Manchester to Reading is to book your tickets as early as possible. Prices tend to rise as your travel date approaches, so book in advance to secure the best prices!

How long is the trip from Manchester to Reading?

A train trip between Manchester and Reading is around 3h 16m, although the fastest train will take about 3h 13m. This is the time it takes to travel the 242 km that separates the two cities.

How many daily trains are there between Manchester and Reading?

The number of trains from Manchester to Reading can differ depending on the day of the week. On average, there are 4. Some trains are direct while others include transferring trains. Simplify your train trip from Manchester to Reading by comparing and selecting the train that fits your travel style and budget on Busbud.

Which train companies travel from Manchester to Reading?

When taking the train from Manchester to Reading, you can travel comfortably and safely with CrossCountry.

Train Manchester to Reading from $41

Next train departures

Next departures for Manchester to Reading on November 15
Vehicle type	Departure time	Departure location	Trip duration	Arrival time	Arrival location	Recommended
Train	7:25am	Manchester Piccadilly	3h 17m	10:42am	Reading	Cheapest
Train	3:25pm	Manchester Piccadilly	3h 16m	6:41pm	Reading	Fastest
Train	7:25am	Manchester Piccadilly	3h 17m	10:42am	Reading	No tags
Train	3:25pm	Manchester Piccadilly	3h 16m	6:41pm	Reading	No tags
Train	4:25pm	Manchester Piccadilly	3h 16m	7:41pm	Reading	No tags

Last refresh of the prices: Last Sunday at 2:47 AM GMT.

Compare 3 ways to go from Manchester to Reading

We recommend carpooling

Among the sustainable travel choices, the carpool stands out as a good way to reach Reading. The journey takes about 3 hours 10 minutes, and with fares starting at just $40, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

1carpool per day

3h 10mAverage Duration

242 kmDistance

10kgCO₂ emissions

	Average Price	Average Duration	CO₂ emissions
Bus	Average Price$36 - $115	Average Duration9h	CO₂ emissions 6kg CO₂e
Train	Average Price$45 - $315	Average Duration3h 16m	CO₂ emissions 6kg CO₂e
Carpool	Average Price$40 - $42	Average Duration3h 10m	CO₂ emissions 10kg CO₂e

Train companies

CrossCountry

4.5/544 reviews

Staff4.5

Timeliness4.1

Cleanliness4.1

Wifi4.1

Based on 44 reviews, the company was rated 4.3 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the departure location but often complained with the value for money. CrossCountry ticket prices on this trip start at $45

GB train and bus companies:Amtrak, Trenitalia, Renfe, VIA Rail Canada, RegioJet, FlixTrain, CrossCountry

Frequently asked questions about travelling from Manchester to Reading by train

How much does a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Reading cost?
The average train ticket price from Manchester to Reading is $66. The best way to find cheap train tickets from Manchester to Reading is to book your tickets as early as possible. Prices tend to rise as your travel date approaches, so book in advance to secure the best prices!
How long is the trip from Manchester to Reading?
A train trip between Manchester and Reading is around 3h 16m, although the fastest train will take about 3h 13m. This is the time it takes to travel the 242 km that separates the two cities.
How many daily trains are there between Manchester and Reading?
The number of trains from Manchester to Reading can differ depending on the day of the week. On average, there are 4. Some trains are direct while others include transferring trains. Simplify your train trip from Manchester to Reading by comparing and selecting the train that fits your travel style and budget on Busbud.
Which train companies travel from Manchester to Reading?
When taking the train from Manchester to Reading, you can travel comfortably and safely with CrossCountry.

Find cheapest prices for trains

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

Best price found

11-12

$217

11-13

$55

Today

No data

11-15

$41

11-16

No data

11-17

No data

11-18

$55

11-19

$54

The cheapest trip from Manchester to Reading was searched and found on Nov 15, 2025 with a price of $41

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your train tickets from Manchester to Reading, as early as possible.

You can expect to pay from $41 to $581 for a train ticket from Manchester to Reading based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $41 which is on 2025-11-15.