Reading Railway Station — Attraction in Reading

Reading Railway Station: A Commuter's Delight, but Mind the Peak Prices

Reading Railway Station has transformed itself into a modern transport hub, offering swift and convenient connections for both commuters and travelers alike. My recent experiences with the Paddington fast train and Elizabeth line to Liverpool Street have been generally positive, but it's important to be aware of the cost of travel during peak times.

Paddington Fast Train:

Speed and efficiency: The Paddington fast train lives up to its name, whisking you to London Paddington in just under 25 minutes. The frequency of services ensures minimal waiting times, making it ideal for those who value punctuality. Comfort and amenities: The carriages are clean and spacious, with comfortable seating and ample luggage storage. Onboard Wi-Fi and power outlets are a bonus for those who need to stay connected or work on the go. Scenic route: The journey offers picturesque views of the Berkshire countryside, adding a touch of tranquility to your commute. Peak travel cost: While the convenience is undeniable, peak time travel can be quite expensive. Consider traveling during off-peak hours or purchasing a railcard for potential savings.

Elizabeth Line to Liverpool Street:

Seamless connectivity: The Elizabeth line has revolutionized travel across London, and Reading station is a key beneficiary. The line offers direct access to Liverpool Street, providing a smooth and efficient journey to the heart of the City. Modern trains: The Elizabeth line trains are state-of-the-art, boasting spacious interiors, air conditioning, and real-time travel information displays. The step-free access makes it a convenient option for passengers with mobility issues. Expanded network: The Elizabeth line connects Reading to various key destinations across London, including Heathrow Airport, making it an invaluable asset for both commuters and travelers. Peak fares: Similar to the Paddington fast train, peak fares on the Elizabeth line can be steep. It's worth exploring off-peak travel or utilizing a railcard to mitigate costs.

Overall Experience:

Reading Railway Station itself is well-maintained and easy to navigate. The signage is clear, and the staff are friendly and helpful. A variety of shops and cafes offer a range of refreshments and necessities for your journey. The station's central location makes it easily accessible by various modes of transport, including bus, taxi, and car.

Tips:

Purchase tickets in advance: To save time and avoid queues, consider buying your tickets online or using the self-service machines. Off-peak travel: Whenever possible, travel during off-peak hours to benefit from lower fares and less crowded trains. Check for delays: Before you travel, check the National Rail website or app for any potential disruptions or delays. Utilize the station facilities: Take advantage of the waiting rooms, toilets, and luggage storage facilities for a more comfortable experience. Consider a railcard: If you're a frequent traveler, a railcard can offer significant savings on both peak and off-peak fares.

Reading Railway Station has undoubtedly elevated the standard of rail travel in the region. However, potential travelers should be mindful of the higher costs associated with peak time journeys. By planning ahead and exploring alternative options, you can maximize the benefits of this excellent transport hub while minimizing the impact on...

Not the first time that I have been shouted at (told off) like a piece of dirt by railway staff.

I've committed such crimes as rolling up to the ENTRANCE of Reading station, and putting my ticket into the machine while I still have a leg over the bike (because why take time to dismount when you are 1. Not even in the station yet, 2. Have a queue of people building up behind you and 3. You're about to pass through a narrow ticket gate, standing beside a LARGE mountain bike is just impractical and awkward! Been shouted at by a rude bald masked staff member at Reading station entrance, hopefully he annoys the wrong cyclist one day and finds out what we all think of him! Just to note, in my 20 odd years of cycling I've never injured anyone except myself. I think I am capable of scooting through a gate, hardly riding down the escalators now is it?!

I've also committed such crimes as waiting for my morning train to work and daring to take my bike onto a section of the train which is not labelled for bicycles. Well, 1. There ain't many of us so what's the big deal, 2. There isn't even always a cycling carriage, 3. There often isn't space for bikes if there is more than 1 bicycle boarding and 4. How am I supposed to know when waiting for a train where the cycling carriage is going to stop. It could end up stopping down the other end of the platform from where I waited and as shown above its a crime of the highest magnitude to cycle down to the carriage so I have before chosen to stand with my bike, out of the way, in a regular carriage and been spoken to like dirt. No wonder no-one wants to take the train unless they absolutely have to. Way to kill off your business...

Good morning. I am writing to express my concerns about the Great Western Railway (GWR) ticketing and security practices.

Firstly, I have noticed that ticket checks are often conducted at inconvenient times, such as 5 am when there are few passengers on the train. Conversely, during peak travel times around 6 pm, I have observed numerous instances of passengers evading ticket checks by jumping the barriers. This not only results in lost revenue for GWR but also creates an unfair situation for those who have purchased tickets.

Secondly, I am concerned about the lack of security at Reading station, the final stop on the GWR line. Upon exiting the station, I have witnessed homeless individuals and beggars taking advantage of the open barriers to enter without paying. This not only compromises the safety and security of passengers but also creates an uncomfortable environment.

I kindly request that GWR address these issues by increasing the frequency of ticket checks during peak travel times and implementing effective security measures at Reading station to prevent unauthorized access.

Thank you for your attention to this...