- Must visit
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
Major city museum with natural history, archaeology, art, and local collections in a grand building. A top all-round introduction to Bristol.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bedford to Bristol
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$68
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$68
Fastest journey on Sep 20
3 h 9 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
4 h
Trains on Sep 20
3
Distance
165 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bedford to Bristol is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bedford to Bristol will cost around $68 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $68.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 3 trains from Bedford to Bristol, including 3 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 165 km distance in an average of 4 h but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 9 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 4 h 47 m 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.
5:56 AM4h47Bedford10:43 AMBristol$681One-way0 transfers- 9:46 AM3h09Bedford12:55 PMBristol$681One-way0 transfers
12:00 PM4h05Bedford4:05 PMBristol$691One-way0 transfers
- 9:46 AM3h09Bedford12:55 PMBristol$681One-way0 transfers
- 12:00 PM4h05Bedford4:05 PMBristol$691One-way0 transfers
- 5:56 AM4h47Bedford10:43 AMBristol$681One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Bedford to Bristol
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bedford to Bristol among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $27 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 12m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $27, while a train costs an average of $77.
Distance: 102 miles (165 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$77 Average price | $27 Average price Cheapest | $57 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 12m Average total duration Fastest 2h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 3m Average total duration 3h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 50m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bedford to Bristol is a bus with an average price of $27 (€22).
This is compared to other travel options from Bedford to Bristol:
A bus is $50 (€41) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bedford to Bristol costing on average $77 (€63).
The fastest way to travel from Bedford to Bristol is by train with an average journey time of 2h 42m.
Other travel options to Bristol take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 33m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bedford and Bristol including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bedford to Bristol among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 8m sooner (2h 42m by train vs 2h 50m by car). Tickets start at around $77 (€63) compared to roughly $57 (€47) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Bedford to Bristol train times
The table below shows live departures for Bedford to Bristol trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:56 AM Bedford | 4h47 | 10:43 AM Bristol | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:46 AM Bedford | 3h09 | 12:55 PM Bristol | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:00 PM Bedford | 4h05 | 4:05 PM Bristol | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bedford to Bristol by train or bus
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.
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Sep 20
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Why should you book Bedford to Bristol trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway offer trains services from Bedford to Bristol.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bedford to Bristol.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Bedford to Bristol.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bedford to Bristol.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Bedford to Bristol.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bedford to Bristol.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bedford to Bristol
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bedford to Bristol run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $37 (€31) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:15, the last at 22:50. The fastest train covers the 102 miles (165 km) distance in 2h 21m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $17 (€14)
Distance 102 miles (165 km) |
Average train duration 2h 42m |
Cheapest ticket price $37 (€31) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 21m |
First train 2:15 AM |
Last train 10:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 21 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $17 (€14)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry from Bedford to Bristol trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Bedford and Bristol from $17 (€14). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
2h 21m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$37 (€31)
Great Western Railway frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
3h 0m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$140 (€115)
CrossCountry frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Bristol
Things to do in Bristol
Discover the best of Bristol — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bristol trip today.
- Must visit
SS Great Britain
Historic passenger ship designed by Brunel. Explore decks, cabins, and dockside museum displays on one of Bristol’s most famous heritage attractions.
- Must visit
M Shed
Purpose-built city history museum beside the floating harbour. It tells Bristol’s story through people, trade, protest, and everyday life.
- Must visit
Bristol Harbour
Historic waterfront district with museums, boats, walks, and lively public spaces. Ideal for first-time visitors wanting Bristol’s signature atmosphere.
- Must visit
Clifton
Elegant Georgian neighborhood of terraces, crescents, and village-like streets. A classic base for architecture, walks, and access to the bridge.
- Must visit
Clifton Down
Panoramic viewpoint above the Avon Gorge near the suspension bridge. One of Bristol’s best free spots for dramatic landscapes and sunset photos.
Bristol Beef Sandwich
A split-top white roll filled with roast beef, onions and gravy. A Bristol classic tied to the city’s old market and dockside workers.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Bristol Blue Cheese
Bristol’s own blue cheese, made in Somerset and long associated with the city. Rich, creamy and pungent, it reflects the region’s historic cheese trade.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
West Country Cider
Dry, still or sparkling cider made from West Country apples. Bristol’s pubs and cider houses make it a defining local drink with deep regional roots.
Box-E
Historic harbourside restaurant in a converted shipping container. Celebrated for local seafood, oysters and relaxed waterside dining.
Bulrush
Michelin-starred fine dining known for modern British tasting menus, polished service and an intimate, special-occasion atmosphere.
The Bristolian
Beloved casual eatery serving mezze and Middle Eastern plates. Lively, affordable and one of Bristol’s longest-established independent favourites.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for UK city breaks. Hotels and dining are cheaper than London, but central stays, attractions, and transport can still add up for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual eats.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add 10%. Cafes: tipping is optional, small change appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Bristol Temple Meads -> Bristol City Centre
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless and card payment are accepted on most First Bus services in Bristol. You can also use the First Bus app for mobile tickets.
- Bristol has no tram or metro system. Most visitors use buses, and fares can vary by operator outside First Bus routes.
FAQs: Trains from Bedford to Bristol
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bedford to Bristol by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Bristol, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Bedford to Bristol can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $37 (€31), while the average price is around $77 (€63).
The train from Bedford to Bristol takes 2h 21m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Bedford to Bristol is 102 miles (165 km).
The first train from Bedford to Bristol leaves at 2:15 AM.
The last train from Bedford to Bristol leaves at 10:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bedford to Bristol.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bedford to Bristol.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bedford to Bristol.
The train station in Bedford that goes to Bristol is Bedford station (BDM), which connects to Bristol Temple Meads (BRI).
The cheapest way to get from Bedford to Bristol is by bus, with a cost of around $17 (€14).
The train journey from Bedford to Bristol offers some scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque English countryside, including rolling hills and charming rural landscapes.
A day trip from Bedford to Bristol is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 21m, and trains run 6 times per day.
In Bristol, you can visit the Bristol Zoo Gardens for diverse animal exhibits and take a boat tour along the River Avon for unique city views. Explore vibrant street art in the Stokes Croft area and visit the Arnolfini for contemporary arts exhibitions. Enjoy Brandon Hill Park, home to the historic Cabot Tower. Don't miss the Clifton Suspension Bridge for panoramic views of the Avon Gorge and the Bristol Cathedral with its stunning Gothic architecture. Explore the SS Great Britain, a restored passenger steamship and museum, and the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery for diverse collections. St Nicholas Market offers a vibrant experience with food stalls and local crafts.
To fully experience Bristol, including its historic sites, vibrant arts scene, and nearby attractions, plan for a stay of 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Bedford to Bristol.
Since neither Bedford nor Bristol are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Bristol include Bath, Cardiff, Oxford, Gloucester, Cheltenham.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bedford to Bristol among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Bristol, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and on public transport. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers and counterfeit event tickets. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and buy tickets only from official vendors to avoid these issues. Additionally, travelers should stay aware of their surroundings at night, particularly in less busy areas.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Bedford to Bristol
Most Bedford to Bristol trains use the Bedford to Bristol Temple Meads station pair. Use this guide to compare Bedford and Bristol train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bedford
Arrival train stations in Bristol
Which Bedford station do trains to Bristol leave from?
Trains from Bedford to Bristol leave from Bedford. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Bedford city centre at Bedford station, Ashburnham Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK40 1DS.
BedfordBedford station, Ashburnham Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK40 1DS
Bedford train station facilities and services
Bedford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bedford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bedford. ATMs are available at Bedford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bedford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bedford: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bedford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bedford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms via lifts. Assistance Meeting Point is adjacent to the taxi rank at the front of the station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Bedford St JohnsBedford St Johns station, Melbourne Street, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK42 9AN
City-centre transport
Getting to Bedford St Johns from Bedford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesIn the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from the Medbourne Road car park, by the path leading to the platform. Please check the direction of travel before boarding.
Bedford St Johns train station facilities and services
Bedford St Johns has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bedford St Johns.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bedford St Johns: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Bedford St Johns: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bedford St Johns: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Bristol Temple MeadsStation Approach, Bristol, BS1 6QF, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Bristol Temple Meads from Bristol city centre
Bus16 · 7m · $5 · every ~12 min
X39, 16, 39, 522 · 8m · $5 · every ~49 min
512 · 14m
9 · 15m · $5 · every ~22 min
Bristol Temple Meads train station facilities and services
Bristol Temple Meads has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Pasty Shop, Starbucks, Upper Crust, Pumpkin Café, Hart's Bakery
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located near Platform 3.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:30 - 21:30, Sun: 06:45 - 21:30. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol Temple Meads: Wheelchair access, elevators, escalators. .
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Bristol City Center, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bristol City Center, Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City Center.
Most popular train connections from Bedford
More options for your journey from Bedford to Bristol
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bristol and Bedford
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