- Must visit
STEAM Museum of the Great Western Railway
Major railway museum in the former works. Interactive displays, locomotives, and hands-on exhibits make it Swindon’s standout heritage attraction.
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$5
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$9
Fastest journey on Sep 18
50 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
55 m
Buses on Sep 18
4
Distance
43 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cheltenham to Swindon is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cheltenham to Swindon will cost around $9 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $5.
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 4 buses from Cheltenham to Swindon, including 4 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct buses cover the 43 km distance in an average of 55 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 50 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest buses will take 1 h and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.








Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cheltenham to Swindon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $7 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 1h 24m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $7, while a train costs an average of $28.
Distance: 26 miles (43 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$7 Average price Cheapest | $28 Average price | $12 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 24m Average total duration Fastest 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 31m Average total duration 1h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 50m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Cheltenham to Swindon:
A bus is $21 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cheltenham to Swindon costing on average $28.
Other travel options to Swindon take longer:
Train takes on average 1h 1m.
Tickets start at around $7 compared to roughly $12 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $6. The journey takes 54m versus 50m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by FlixBus, National Express.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:35AM | Arrival Time 04:25AM | Duration 0h50 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:20AM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 0h50 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:05AM | Arrival Time 07:55AM | Duration 0h50 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:05AM | Arrival Time 12:00PM | Duration 0h55 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:40PM | Arrival Time 02:40PM | Duration 1h00 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:40PM | Arrival Time 03:40PM | Duration 1h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:40PM | Arrival Time 04:40PM | Duration 1h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:55PM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 1h00 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 1h00 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 0h55 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $13 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:35PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 0h55 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $13 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 07:55PM | Duration 0h55 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $13 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:35PM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 0h55 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $13 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:45PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 0h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 10:35PM | Duration 0h50 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $5 |
The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Swindon buses for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 3:40 PM Cheltenham | 1h00 | 4:40 PM Swindon | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 6:35 PM Cheltenham | 0h55 | 7:30 PM Swindon | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 7:35 PM Cheltenham | 0h55 | 8:30 PM Swindon | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 8:45 PM Cheltenham | 0h50 | 9:35 PM Swindon | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Buses from Cheltenham to Swindon run on average 6 times per day, taking around 54m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $5 if you book in advance.
There are 6 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 04:30, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 26 miles (43 km) distance in 45m.
Distance 26 miles (43 km) |
Average bus duration 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $5 |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 6 |
Fastest bus 45m |
First bus 4:30 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 days |
Discover the best of Swindon — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Swindon trip today.
Major railway museum in the former works. Interactive displays, locomotives, and hands-on exhibits make it Swindon’s standout heritage attraction.
Museum in Lydiard House presenting the estate’s history, decorated rooms, and collections connected to one of Swindon’s grandest homes.
Volunteer-run railway heritage site with exhibits, restored stock, and a nostalgic station atmosphere on the edge of Swindon.
Large country park with lakes, woodland, and formal grounds around Lydiard House. A favorite for walks, picnics, and heritage scenery.
Historic district with independent shops, period buildings, and a lively atmosphere. Ideal for strolling and seeing Swindon beyond the outlet area.
Former railway village now known for heritage streets, murals, and easy access to STEAM, outlet shopping, and industrial history walks.
A Wiltshire classic of cured pork, usually sliced for sandwiches or breakfasts. It reflects the county's long pork-curing tradition.
A crumbly cow's milk cheese from Wiltshire with a fresh, tangy taste. It is a regional staple often served on cheese boards or in ploughman's lunches.
A traditional English dessert of stewed fruit topped with a baked crumb mixture. In Wiltshire it often features local apples or seasonal fruit.
Popular Indian restaurant known for classic curries, tandoori dishes, and friendly service in a smart casual setting.
Stylish steakhouse and grill with dry-aged beef, cocktails, and an upscale atmosphere for a higher-end meal.
Well-regarded modern British gastropub with steaks, seasonal dishes, and a polished but relaxed atmosphere.
Moderate for UK travel. Hotels are often cheaper than London, while dining and local transport are typical for southern England.
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, add 10-12.5% if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Official public transport app
Swindon Bus Station (New Bridge Close) -> Swindon Railway Station
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cheltenham to Swindon by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Swindon, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cheltenham to Swindon buses use the Cheltenham to Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2) station pair, with some services arriving at Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2). Use this guide to compare Cheltenham and Swindon bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Cheltenham has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Free WiFi available in the waiting area. ATMs are available at Cheltenham.
Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham.
Available at Cheltenham: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham: Wheelchair accessible with ramps.
Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Cafeteria Royal Well (in the station), The Coffee House (0.2 km), The Brewery Quarter (0.5 km).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station.
Available at Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.
Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Nearby eateries available in the city center.
Wi-Fi is available at Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2). ATMs are available at Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2).
Ticket office support is available at Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2).
Available at Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2): Accessible for standard wheelchairs.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need