Your Reading Commute: How to Get to Campus Fast

24 Feb 2026

Luke Williams

Getting to your lectures shouldn’t feel like a workout before the day really begins. Whether you are living in the heart of the town or closer to the station, Homes for Students residents have some of the best-connected spots in the city. Your Reading commute is much easier when you know exactly which bus to look for and which train to catch.

Your Reading Commute: How to Get to Campus

Mode of Transport  Destination Key Benefit for Students
White Knight 20 University of Reading Express service, ~10 mins from the station
Elizabeth Line Central London / Abbey Wood No-change travel to Bond St & Canary Wharf
GWR Fast Train London Paddington Fastest route to London (~23 mins)
Claret 21 University/Lower Earley Runs 24/7 for late-night study or socials

What is the Fastest Way to Get to the University of Reading?

The most efficient way to reach the Whiteknights Campus from the town centre or Reading Station is the White Knight 20 bus. This express service is designed specifically for students, running roughly every 15 minutes during term time and taking about 10 minutes to reach the main campus.

If you miss the White Knight, don’t panic. The Claret 21 is your backup plan. Running 24-hours a day, it’s perfect for late-night library sessions or when you’ve stayed out a little longer than planned. These buses are scheduled to arrive every 7-8 minutes during peak times, so you should never be waiting long.

How To Save Money on Travel in Reading

Budgeting is a major part of the student experience when it comes to transport. The best way to save is by using the Reading Buses ‘Boost’ fares. All University of Reading students are eligible for these discounted rates regardless of age, provided you have a student ID.

  • SimplyUni passes: Another great way to save money if you travel regularly. You can get academic year or term-based passes.
  • Tap On, Tap Off: For more flexible travel, the contactless system is the cheapest way to pay for single trips without a pass.
  • Boossaver10: If you only head to campus occasionally, you can buy bundles of 10 trips on the app to lower the cost of each journey.

The London Connection: Commuting from Reading

Reading’s proximity to London makes it one of the best-connected student towns in the country. Whether you’re studying in or around the capital or just want a weekend trip, you have two main options.

Great Western Railway

For pure speed, the Great Western Railway (GWR) fast services are hard to beat. They usually take less than half an hour to reach London Paddington, making them ideal for anyone who values a quick journey.

Elizabeth Line

If you’re happy commuting for longer, the Elizabeth Line is your best bet. While the trip to Paddington takes around 50 minutes, it carries you directly to Bond Street, Canary Wharf, Tottenham Court Road, and Liverpool Street without you needing to change lines. If your destination is in the City of London or the West End, it’ll save you money and the hassle of transfers.

Don’t forget to use your 16-25 Railcard on these lines. It’ll save you 1/3 on all rail fares. If you’re over 25 but in full-time study, you’re still eligible.

Ready for Reading?

Now that you’re Reading commute has been made simple, it’s time to secure your base for the next academic year. Discover our fantastic range of Reading student accommodation buildings today, and find your perfect home from home.

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