How long is the drive?

Usually 3 hours and 45 minutes.

No, there are no tolls on this route.

Yes, National Express operates coaches to Reading.

Is Reading a good place to visit?

Yes, it has great shopping and historic sites.

Great Yarmouth

Reading

Train Driving

Great Yarmouth to Reading

Updated: 30 May 2026

The route from Great Yarmouth to Reading covers approximately 160 miles. By train, you will travel from Great Yarmouth to Norwich, then to London Liverpool Street, and finally take the Elizabeth Line or a taxi to London Paddington for a Great Western Railway service to Reading. Driving involves the A47, A11, and the M25, eventually joining the M4 motorway. The journey typically takes 3.5 to 4.5 hours. Reading is a major transport hub, making it easily accessible once you reach the London periphery.

Total Distance: 250 km driving distance; 190 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving, during off-peak hours.

Cheapest Way

Train, using Advance tickets and avoiding peak-time travel.

Compare Great Yarmouth to Reading Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours	3 hours 45 mins
Avg Price	£55 - £95	£40 - £65 in fuel
Operator	Greater Anglia and Great Western Railway	Personal Vehicle
Route	Great Yarmouth to Norwich, Norwich to London Liverpool Street, London Paddington to Reading.	A47, A11, M11, M25, M4.
Tip	The Elizabeth Line is the fastest way to cross London from Liverpool Street to Paddington.	The M4 is often congested near Reading; check for smart motorway speed restrictions.

Travel Tips

Rail Transfers
Allow at least 45 minutes for your transfer across London between Liverpool Street and Paddington.
Traffic
The M4 motorway has variable speed limits; watch for overhead gantries.
Parking
Use the Reading Station car park for easy access to the town center.
Booking
Use the Trainline app to monitor for delays on the Greater Anglia line.
Navigation
Use Waze or Google Maps to navigate around M25 traffic jams in real-time.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
The M4 is a high-speed road; maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front.
Station Security
Reading station is very busy; keep your luggage in sight at all times.
Emergency
Dial 999 for any urgent assistance required during your journey.
Night Travel
If driving at night, ensure your headlights are clean and functioning properly.