The average train between Colchester and Reading takes 1h 50m and the fastest train takes 1h 35m. The train runs at least 3 times per hour from Colchester 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 every 20 minutes between Colchester and Reading. The earliest departure is at 4:41 AM at night, and the last departure from Colchester is at 8:00 PM which arrives into Reading at 9:46 PM. All services require a transfer at Stratford and take an average of 1h 50m. The schedules shown below are for the next available departures.


2h 10m • 2 changes


2h • 2 changes


1h 47m • 2 changes


1h 43m • 2 changes
Want to know about travelling from Colchester 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 Colchester to Reading. However, there are services departing from Colchester station and arriving at Reading station via Stratford (London). The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 1h 50m.
Colchester to Reading train services, operated by Greater Anglia, depart from Colchester station.
Colchester to Reading train services, operated by Greater Anglia, arrive at Reading station.
Book your Colchester to Reading train tickets online with Greater Anglia, Elizabeth Line (TfL) and Great Western Railway (GWR).
The distance between Colchester and Reading is 138 km. The road distance is 147 km.
You can take a train from Colchester to Reading via Stratford and London Paddington in around 1h 44m.