Reading Station is one of the UK’s most important railway stations, as it provides a critical direct connection to London, which is used by commuters and tourists from all over the country.
In fact, Reading Station connects around 13-14 million passengers every single year, making it one of the busiest stations in the entire country.
In addition to its direct connections to London Paddington and London Liverpool Street (via the Elizabeth line), Reading Station is also key for connecting the South East, the South West and the Midlands, with direct links to Oxford, Bristol, Cardiff, Birmingham, Manchester, and many more.
How to get to Reading Station
Whatever your travel plans, getting to Reading Station is super straightforward:
Address
Reading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ
Phone Number-
Parking Capacity
Up to 1387 parking spaces available
Pick Up & Drop-off point Yes
Ticket Machine Yes
Staff help Yes
Monday - Sunday
24 Hours
Staff help Yes
Step-free access coverage Yes
Step-free access notes
A, Compliant step-free access to all platform(s)
Ramps for train access No
Wheelchairs Yes
Induction Loop
Induction loops are throughout this station
Food & Drink Yes
WiFi Yes
Toilets Yes
Showers No
Baby changing Yes
Shops Yes
ATM Yes
Cycle storage / Spaces
Yes / 344 Spaces
Sheltered cycle storage Yes
Bus Yes
Customer Services Yes
First Class Lounge No
Luggage Storage No
Lost & Found No
Facilities inside Reading Station
Reading Station is equipped with all the facilities you need for a smooth journey.
This includes a wide range of shops and food outlets, including brands like Boots, Hotel Chocolat and Marks and Spencer. There’s also free public WiFi throughout.
The station has a staffed ticket office, which is open Monday to Friday 06:15 - 22:00, Saturday 06:15 - 22:00 and Sunday 07:15 - 22:00. Alternatively, multiple self-service ticket machines are also available.
There are toilets and baby changing facilities in the station, including accessible facilities.
Other accessibility features include step-free access, lifts and tactile paving. For passengers that need further support, there is also staff assistance on hand.
Things to do in Reading
Not only does Reading Station provide easy and efficient connections to London and the South, but it also makes journeying into Reading equally seamless.
Our 8 favourite places to go near Reading Station are:
Whether you are commuting to the capital or planning a day trip, Reading Station is one of the most important and convenient train stations in the entire country.
With Choo Choo, you can search for the most competitive prices on train fares - either outwards from Reading, or travelling into Reading Station. With the Choo Choo app, getting the best deals on tickets couldn’t be easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Delay Repay & Compensation
If your journey was delayed, you may be entitled to compensation. Choo Choo makes it easy to track your eligibility and process your claim.
When Can You Claim Compensation
DR15 (Delay Repay 15)
Compensation starts at 15 minutes delay
•15 - 29 min → 25% refund
•30 - 59 min → 50% refund
•60+ min → 100% refund (for that leg)
•120+ minutes → 100% Refund (for both legs)
DR30 (Delay Repay 30)
Compensation starts only at 30 minutes delay
•30 - 59 min → 50% refund
•60+ min → 100% refund
•120+ minutes → 100% Refund (for both legs)
Missed Connection
If a delay made you miss a connection, you can claim for:
•The full journey
•Or the unused portion
Downgrade or No Reserved Seat
•If you paid for First Class but sat in Standard, or
•Had no reserved seat despite paying
→You may claim a partial refund
Train Cancellation
•Full refund if you didn't travel
•Partial refund or Delay Repay if you travelled on a different train with a delay
Alternative Transport Costs
If you had to use a taxi or bus due to cancellation or disruption → You may claim a refund with a receipt by contacting the Train Operating Company at fault.
Most popular train routes in England
From the beautiful rolling hills of The Cotswolds to the sandy beaches of Cornwall, to the bustling cities full of must-see attractions and fantastic culinary delights, England has some truly unmissable destinations, and we’re here to bring you all of them in one handy place. Explore, be inspired, and travel greener by train!
