Great Western Coffee Shop

Hi all

I'm planning a trip to Reading to do some trainspotting, does anybody know the best platforms for spotting and filming?

Thanks GWR 158

Actually, Trainspotting - and its 2017 sequel T2 Trainspotting - was filmed at Corrour station rather than Reading - see https://almostginger.com/corrour-station-scotland/

In terms of platform choice, there are nominally two - It has a passing loop around an island platform with a siding on the east side. However, since November 1985, all passenger trains have used the original “down” platform. The "up" loop remains and is serviceable but it is no longer used by passenger trains.

Thanks for the reply, I didn't mean the tv series Trainspotting I meant actually watching the trains arrive and depart the station.

There is no 'best' place for filming/photting as the station is so wide, but probably the western end of P7 of the eastern end of P10 for 'spotting' purposes.

If you are going to spend time at the end of any platform, make yourself known to platform staff.

Thanks. I always let the gateline staff know.

It does depend if the multiple units that terminate have your interest. All through traffic can be seen from the western end of any of the main platforms, the up main line probably the best. Give both ends of the main platforms a go then maybe have a look at West station for the container trains. Enjoy.

Most ‘spotters’ at Reading hang around on the benches at the east end of Platform 10/11. Have a good view of everything there, with the exception of the west facing bays for Basingstoke and Newbury trains.