Trains from Reading to Manchester
Running 15 times a day with CrossCountry*
*Based on scheduled timetable
Travel in comfort from Reading to Manchester with CrossCountry. Enjoy great savings with Advance tickets even on the day, up until 15 minutes before departure.
As soon as you leave the historical town of Reading, you will pass through the beautiful countryside of the North Wessex Downs and Chiltern Hills Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You will then travel through much of the west of England, enjoying some of the country’s most picturesque scenery from your window. You will be whisked from Reading to Manchester Piccadilly in around 3 hours, enough time to fully enjoy the views that the English countryside has to offer.
Book tickets from Reading to Manchester today
Why CrossCountry?
Buy tickets for any train journey in Britain. We cross more of the country than any other train company.
- Free Wi-Fi onboard
- 10% TOTUM discount
CrossCountry Trains from Reading to Manchester
Today from 06:52
Travelling to Manchester
- First CrossCountry train - 06:15
- Last CrossCountry train - 20:15
Travelling from Reading to Manchester
Once an industrial town, Manchester has reinvented itself as a truly contemporary metropolis, with modern buildings, thriving culture and world-class sport. Deemed the capital of the north, Manchester is a fantastic city to visit whether you want a day trip, a weekend away or a longer stay.
Are there direct trains from Reading to Manchester?
Yes, CrossCountry runs direct trains from Reading to Manchester.
What amenities are available onboard trains from Reading to Manchester?
As you would expect from a CrossCountry train, all our services from Reading to Manchester offer a full range of amenities to make your journey a comfortable one. We provide a variety of table seats, charging points for your electrical devices and ample luggage storage. There’s even space to bring a bike, if you so wish. Our on-board at-seat service offers a great selection of light refreshments and drinks should you feel peckish. Or, why not treat yourself to even more comfort and upgrade to a First Class ticket?
Does Manchester Piccadilly have step-free access?
Manchester Piccadilly is fully accessible to those with a range of mobility needs. The station has step-free access throughout, ramps are available for train access, and there are accessible ticket machines and counters.
How far is the city centre?
Manchester Piccadilly is only a short walk from the Central Retail District as well as the trendy Northern Quarter, meaning there’s plenty to explore near the station.
Does the station have family areas?
Families visiting Manchester will have everything they need for a stress-free journey. If you’re travelling with babies, make use of the dedicated baby changing facilities available. There are also waiting rooms to relax in and shops and cafés to keep you entertained while you wait for your train.
More questions?
For further information about Manchester Piccadilly Station, check out our station guide.
Once you have arrived in Manchester
Onward travel: Buses in Manchester
Manchester has a great transport system to assist you on your onward journey. An excellent bus service runs throughout the city centre and Greater Manchester, which is supported by the tram service. If you’re looking to go further afield, the Arriva bus service also offers great service to surrounding towns in the North East.
Shopping in Manchester
Manchester is a great city to do a spot of shopping! High-street favourites, quirky boutiques or designer brands – Manchester’s got it all. Well-known brands and independent local stores neighbour each other in the shopping malls around the city, like Manchester Arndale, intu Trafford Centre and Market Street. If you’re looking for distinctive boutique shops, you can wind your way through the streets around King Street, Spinningfields or New Cathedral Street. Hit up the edgy Northern Quarter for indie, handmade and all things vintage.
Culture in Manchester
Manchester oozes culture and is home to a string of galleries, venues and festivals, as well as having one of the coolest music scenes in the country. Discover contemporary art, theatre and film at the HOME arts centre or, for something more traditional, go to an award-winning performance at the historic Palace Theatre. Music plays a big part in the culture of Manchester, which is perhaps unsurprising from a city that produced The Smiths, the Bee Gees and Joy Division. Discover the next big act at one of the city’s many intimate live music venues, like The Castle Hotel, Gullivers and Gorilla.
Spending time in Manchester?
Whether you’re looking to have a fun day out or simply want to grab a bite to eat, our Manchester Guide can help you plan the perfect visit!
