Elizabeth Line to Reading

The Elizabeth Line, London's newest tube line, makes Reading a great day trip destination from London.

Reading is the newest western terminus of the Elizabeth Line, reachable on direct trains in under an hour from central London. When you step off the trains in Reading, the River Thames, the town centre attractions, great shopping and eating out are all within a short walk of the station. It couldn't be easier. 

Elizabeth Line services to Reading run every half hour from Abbey Wood in East London, stopping at Canary Wharf, Liverpool Street, Farringdon, Tottenham Court Road and Bond Street, as well as Paddington, before heading west from London to Reading. 

Although you can get to Reading from Paddington in only 23 minutes on GWR trains, journey times from Central London to Reading are still under an hour on the Elizabeth Line. Fares are in line with Transport for London's fare structures. Any Londoner with a Freedom Pass will be able to use their pass to travel free of charge to Reading, making Reading a great cheap day out from the Capital. 

Reading is a great green day out with many things to see and do within easy walking distance of Reading Train Station. Less than a five minute walk brings you to a beautiful stretch of the Thames. Head to Caversham Court Gardens on the north bank of the Thames, have a picnic in Christchurch Meadows, take a short river cruise onboard a Thames River Cruise boat or wander along the river to the Thames Lido for a coffee or cocktail! 

Reading is on the Thames Path so there are a number of circular lovely river walks or walk east or west to other stations to create your own rail walk.

Head into the town centre (2 minute walk) to visit the free Reading Museum with the only full-scale replica of the Bayeux Tapestry or explore Reading Abbey Ruins, which was once one of Europe's great buildings.

The town centre also has great shopping in Broad Street, The Oracle Shopping centre and Broad Street Mall. You'll also be spoiled for choice with dining out options alongside the Kennet & Avon Canal, street food at Blue Collar Corner and every type of cuisine you can imagine. 

For more ideas, find all of the exciting events happening in Reading here and why not check out our Top 10 Free Attractions or our Top 10 Family-Friendly Things to Do?