The average train between Bolton and Reading takes 4h 8m and the fastest train takes 3h 42m. There is a train service every few hours from Bolton to Reading. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays; use the search form on this page to search for a specific travel date.
Trains run hourly between Bolton and Reading. The earliest departure is at 12:23 AM at night, and the last departure from Bolton is at 7:54 PM which arrives into Reading at 11:38 PM. All services require a transfer, and take on average 4h 8m. The schedules shown below are for the next available departures.

3h 50m • 1 change

3h 46m • 1 change

3h 42m • 1 change

3h 47m • 1 change

8h 25m • 1 change

3h 50m • 1 change

3h 46m • 1 change

3h 42m • 1 change

8h 25m • 1 change

3h 50m • 1 change

3h 46m • 1 change

3h 42m • 1 change

8h 18m • 1 change

3h 48m • 1 change

3h 48m • 1 change

3h 48m • 1 change
Want to know about travelling from Bolton to Reading? We have put together a list of the most frequently asked questions from our users such as: What is the cheapest mode of transport? What is the quickest option? How much do tickets usually cost? and many more.
No, there is no direct train from Bolton to Reading. However, there are services departing from Bolton station and arriving at Reading station via Reading. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 4h 8m.
Bolton to Reading train services, operated by Northern Trains Limited, depart from Manchester Piccadilly station.
Bolton to Reading train services, operated by Northern Trains Limited, arrive at Reading station.
Book your Bolton to Reading train tickets online with Northern Trains Limited and Cross Country.
The distance between Bolton and Reading is 256.4 km. The road distance is 306 km.
Cross Country operates a train from Manchester Piccadilly to Reading hourly. Tickets cost £90–130 and the journey takes 3h 14m.