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Trains from London Waterloo East to
Reading Stations

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London Waterloo East to Reading Stations by train

Planning a train journey from London Waterloo East to Reading Stations? The trip usually takes about 1hrs 41 mins, covering approximately 37 miles (60 kilometres). With roughly 52 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options to suit your schedule. Booking your tickets ahead of time can snag you fares as low as £35.40, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

London Waterloo East to Reading Stations Key Stats

Arrival Station

Reading Stations

Departure Station

London Waterloo East

Frequency

52trains
per day

Journey Time

from1hrs 27 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:23 / 23:40

Distance

37miles
(60 km)

3 Routes

6 Train Operators

Prices

from£35.40

Travelling from London Waterloo East to Reading Stations by Train

Jump on a Train from London Waterloo East to Reading Stations – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from London Waterloo East to Reading Stations? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 1hrs 41 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo East, the quickest trains can get you there in just 1hrs 27 mins. With approximately 52 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 37-mile (60 km) route usually requires just one change, with Southeastern, Elizabeth Line, South Western Railway, Thameslink, Southern, GWR providing comfortable seating and ample luggage space – because being cramped isn't anyone's idea of fun!

The best news? By booking early, you can find tickets starting at just £35.40, a significant saving compared to last-minute purchases. To save even more, consider traveling during Off-Peak hours or using a Railcard to keep your expenses down.

Ready to grab those low-cost tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest discounts and keep your budget happy. Explore more travel tips below or check our timetable for current train schedules. All aboard to Reading Stations!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between London Waterloo East and Reading Stations

Curious about your trip from London Waterloo East to Reading Stations? 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 London Waterloo East and Reading Stations by train?

The travel time between London Waterloo East and Reading Stations by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 1hrs 41 mins & the fastest journey takes 1hrs 27 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between London Waterloo East and Reading Stations by train?

The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo East to Reading Stations is 1hrs 27 mins.

How much does the train from London Waterloo East to Reading Stations cost?

Train ticket prices from London Waterloo East to Reading Stations can start from as little as £35.40 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 London Waterloo East and Reading Stations?

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo East and Reading Stations vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 52 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:23, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:40.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between London Waterloo East and Reading Stations?

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

What amenities are available on trains between London Waterloo East and Reading Stations?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from London Waterloo East to Reading Stations by train?

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Waterloo East & Reading Stations. However, there are 52 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from London Waterloo East to Reading Stations?

Southeastern, Elizabeth Line, South Western Railway, Thameslink, Southern and GWR are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo East and Reading Stations.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East and Reading Stations?

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

When are London Waterloo East to Reading Stations Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Waterloo East to Reading Stations on Wednesday 5th February 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Wednesday 5th February
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
22:23 London Waterloo East00:48 Reading3 changesHither Green
London Bridge
London Paddington
2 hrs 25 mins Get Tickets
22:53 London Waterloo East01:14 Reading3 changesHither Green
London Bridge
London Paddington
2 hrs 21 mins Get Tickets
23:53 London Waterloo East02:29 Reading3 changesHither Green
London Bridge
London Paddington
2 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
23:58 London Waterloo East07:10 Reading2 changesLondon Bridge
Farringdon
7 hrs 12 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Waterloo East to Reading Stations 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.

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.

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

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 London Waterloo East Station

Exploring London Waterloo East Train Station: A Convenient Gateway to Discover the City

Looking to explore the vibrant city of London and beyond? London Waterloo East train station is your perfect starting point. Conveniently situated, the station serves as a vital link, connecting you to numerous destinations within London and across the UK. Let’s dive into the details of what London Waterloo East has to offer and why it's an ideal choice for your travel plans.

Facilities and Amenities at London Waterloo East

Though London Waterloo East is a bustling hub, it provides essential amenities to ensure a smooth experience for travelers. While it lacks a traditional ticket office, fear not—ticket machines are readily available for both purchase and collection of pre-booked tickets. Accessibility is thoughtfully catered for, with accessible ticket machines and step-free access via lifts from Waterloo Main station. Need assistance? Help points are clearly marked, and staff are on hand to lend a helping hand when needed.

For those traveling with youngsters or seeking some comfort, the station hosts heated waiting rooms and accessible toilets with baby-changing facilities. CCTV surveillance is in place to ensure a secure environment throughout your journey. Hungry or in need of caffeine fix? Grab a snack or a hot drink from the coffee shops and vending machines on site—no worries about missing the news as newspapers are available too!

Onward Travel: Connecting You Further

Transportation links play a crucial role in making your journey seamless. London Waterloo East does not disappoint with its comprehensive connections to other parts of the city. The bus alighting point on Sandell Street ensures easy access to local transit and rail replacement services. If you're planning an onward journey by train, numerous exciting routes can spark your travel imagination.

Popular Routes: Embark on an Adventure

Dreaming of exploring iconic locations within and around London? London Waterloo East provides access to some fantastic destinations. Whether you're commuting or planning a day trip to explore new locales, this station links you to areas such as London Bridge, London Charing Cross, and Hither Green. With easy routes to places like East Croydon or Tonbridge, your adventures are just a train ride away.

Why Choose London Waterloo East?

As a commuter or an explorer, stepping through the doors of London Waterloo East gives you the flexibility and freedom to travel with ease. Whether it’s the convenience of arriving at London Bridge or the cultural allure of reaching London Charing Cross, this station offers it all. Its facilities cater to your needs, including accessibility and necessary travel support.

Embark on Your Journey Today!

Booking your ticket is the first step to countless experiences waiting at your fingertips. With easy access to online ticket collection, friendly staff to assist, and comprehensive travel links, London Waterloo East is not just a station—it's the beginning of your next adventure. Time to pack your bags, hop on board, and embrace the journey!

Reading Stations

The following stations are part of this group. Click a station for more information.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from London Waterloo East