By supportberkshire.uk 
Subject: Question About Stopping in Reading with Train Ticket
Hi everyone,
I have a return ticket from London to Bristol that passes through Reading. If I decide to get off at Reading on my way back to spend a couple of hours there, what would happen to my ticket? Is this permitted, and would I need to surrender my ticket when I exit?
Thanks for your help!
Hi there,
Generally, it depends on the type of ticket you purchased. If you have an ‘open return’ ticket, you’re usually allowed to break your journey at intermediate stations, including Reading, without any issue. However, with a standard ‘return’ ticket, your ticket might only be valid for a direct journey and could require you to complete the round trip without breaks.
You should also check the specific terms and conditions on the back of your ticket or consult the train operator’s website for detailed policies. It’s worth noting that if your ticket allows for it, you typically won’t need to ‘surrender’ your ticket when exiting at Reading.
If you’re in doubt, it might be a good idea to confirm with the ticket office or a member of staff at the station to avoid any potential issues.
Safe travels!
Great question! In most cases, if you have a standard return ticket from London to Bristol that passes through Reading, you are generally allowed to alight at intermediate stations like Reading without invalidating your ticket. This is often referred to as “breaking your journey.” However, it’s important to note that the rules can vary depending on the train operator and the type of ticket purchased.
For instance, some tickets are “point-to-point” and may have restrictions on stopping over or breaking journeys, whereas others, like off-peak or flexible tickets, tend to be more lenient. To avoid any issues, I recommend checking the specific ticket terms or directly contacting the train operator’s customer service before making any changes. Also, remember to retain your ticket when you exit and recombine it if necessary, especially if you plan to travel further afterwards.
This approach can be a cost-effective way to explore Reading without needing a separate ticket. Safe travels, and enjoy your time in Reading!