This websites requires JavaScript to work. It looks like your browser doesn't support JavaScript, or has it turned off. Please try again with JavaScript support.

70% of our customers find a cheaper split ticket, saving £25 on average

Trains from Reading to
Manchester Stations

Search for Split Tickets to get the Cheapest Fares (save up to 90%)

No card or booking fees

Reading to Manchester Stations by train

Considering a train trip from Reading to Manchester Stations? The journey typically lasts around 3hrs 32 mins and spans about 149 miles (241 kilometres). With approximately 62 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 £37.30, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

Reading to Manchester Stations Key Stats

Arrival Station

Manchester Stations

Departure Station

Reading

Frequency

62trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 14 mins

Changes

015 direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

03:54 / 00:30

Distance

149miles
(241 km)

5 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£37.30

Travelling from Reading to Manchester Stations by Train

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

The typical travel time is about 3hrs 32 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 14 mins. With approximately 62 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 149 miles (241 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, 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 £37.30, 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 Manchester Stations!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Reading and Manchester Stations

Curious about your trip from Reading to Manchester 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 Reading and Manchester Stations by train?

The travel time between Reading and Manchester Stations by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 32 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 14 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Reading and Manchester Stations by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Reading to Manchester Stations is 3hrs 14 mins.

How much does the train from Reading to Manchester Stations cost?

Train ticket prices from Reading to Manchester Stations can start from as little as £37.30 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 Manchester Stations?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Reading and Manchester Stations vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 62 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 03:54, 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 Manchester Stations?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Reading and Manchester Stations?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Reading to Manchester Stations by train?

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

Yes! There are usually around 15 direct services per day from Reading to Manchester Stations

What train companies run services from Reading to Manchester Stations?

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

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Reading and Manchester Stations?

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

When are Reading to Manchester Stations Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Reading to Manchester Stations on Thursday 24th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Thursday 24th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
06:15 Reading09:29 Manchester PiccadillyDirect3 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
06:45 Reading09:59 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeBirmingham New Street
3 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
07:02 Reading10:19 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Paddington
London Euston
3 hrs 17 mins Get Tickets
07:15 Reading10:29 Manchester PiccadillyDirect3 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
07:20 Reading10:44 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Paddington
London Euston
3 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
07:42 Reading11:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Paddington
London Euston
3 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
07:56 Reading11:19 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Paddington
London Euston
3 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
08:15 Reading11:29 Manchester PiccadillyDirect3 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
08:20 Reading11:44 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Paddington
London Euston
3 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
08:41 Reading12:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Paddington
London Euston
3 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
08:58 Reading12:19 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Paddington
London Euston
3 hrs 21 mins Get Tickets
09:15 Reading12:29 Manchester PiccadillyDirect3 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Reading to Manchester 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.

Advance fares from Reading to Manchester Stations start from as little as £37.30

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 Manchester Stations start from £87.30 one way, or £103.90 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 to Manchester Stations are available for £119.30 one way, or £238.40 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 Manchester Stations is £197.50 & the average saving on this route is £52.61!

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!

Manchester 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 Reading