Bedford to Bristol train with Great Western Railway

Mon, Jun 22
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Great Western Railway
Thameslink
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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Great Western Railway
Thameslink
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Deutsche Bahn
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bedford to Bristol

Showing times and prices for Jun 22

Cheapest price

$68

Average price

$77

Fastest journey

3 h 19 m

Average duration

3 h 22 m

Trains per day

2

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 $77 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $68.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Bedford for Bristol on Mon, Jun 22, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Jun 22 the direct trains cover the 165 km distance in an average of 3 h 22 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 19 m .

On Mon, Jun 22 the slowest trains will take 3 h 25 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.

  • Great Western Railway
    8:16 AM3h19
    Bedford
    11:35 AMBristol
    $681One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western Railway
    8:10 AM3h25
    Bedford
    11:35 AMBristol
    $871One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Bedford to Bristol

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bedford to Bristol among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 50m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $14, and a train costs an average of $38.

Distance: 102 miles (165 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$78

Average price

$18

Average price

Cheapest

$57

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 20m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 52m

Average total duration

3h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 50m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Great Western Railway

Most popular train company

FlixBus

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 $18 (€15).

This is compared to other travel options from Bedford to Bristol:

A bus is $60 (€49) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bedford to Bristol costing on average $78 (€64).

The fastest way to travel from Bedford to Bristol is by train with an average journey time of 2h 50m.

Other travel options to Bristol take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 22m.

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 the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $78 (€64) compared to roughly $57 (€47) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-20.93 (€-17.13). The journey takes 2h 50m versus 2h 50m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Bedford to Bristol train times

The table below shows live departures for Bedford to Bristol trains for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
ThameslinkTL177800 · TL507500 · X64119+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington
On time
7:27 AM Bedford station (BDM)
4h35
12:02 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
4 transfers
ThameslinkTL174700 · TL504800 · X64118+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington
On time
8:12 AM Bedford station (BDM)
4h53
1:05 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
4 transfers
East Midlands RailwayEM805600+ThameslinkX64117+Great Western RailwayC01223+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington9:45 AM Bedford station (BDM)
4h17
2:02 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)3 transfers
East Midlands RailwayEM805500+Great Western RailwayC50047 · C48139+Great NorthernC1040210:00 AM Bedford station (BDM)
4h28
2:28 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)4 transfers
East Midlands RailwayEM805200+ThameslinkX64116+Great Western RailwayW34700+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Paddington10:45 AM Bedford station (BDM)
4h20
3:05 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)3 transfers

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.

Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28

Why should you book Bedford to Bristol trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as Thameslink 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 Great Western Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink 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 Great Western Railway 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 Thameslink 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
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Bedford to Bristol run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 (€31) but you can travel from only $14 (€12) 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 3h 2m.

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 $14 (€12)
Distance
102 miles (165 km)
Average train duration
2h 50m
Cheapest ticket price
$38 (€31)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 2m
First train
2:15 AM
Last train
10:50 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
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 $14 (€12)

Train companies: Great Western Railway, Thameslink from Bedford to Bristol trainsGreat Western Railway, Thameslink trains will get you between Bedford and Bristol from $14 (€12). 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 Duration
3h 2m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€31)
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

Thameslink

About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 5m
Cheapest Price
$69 (€57)
Thameslink frequency
16 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
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

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Major civic museum with art, archaeology, natural history, and Egyptian collections near the University.

  • Must visit

SS Great Britain

Museum ship and dockyard telling the story of Brunel’s pioneering steamship in immersive exhibits.

  • Recommended

M Shed

City museum on Bristol’s history, people, and harbor heritage with engaging modern displays.

Pound Sterling

Moderate by UK standards. Food and coffee are manageable, but hotels and central dining can be pricey on weekends.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway or casual lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 18-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.

Tipping culture

Service charge may be added in restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up for taxis. Tipping is not expected in pubs or for takeaway.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Bedford to Bristol can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $38 (€31), while the average price is around $78 (€64).
The train from Bedford to Bristol takes 3h 2m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Bedford to Bristol leaves at 2:15 AM.
The distance by train from Bedford to Bristol is 102 miles (165 km).
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 $14 (€12).
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 3h 2m, 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

Bedford
Bristol
The major train station for departures in Bedford is Bedford. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bedford for your trip from Bedford to Bristol.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:45 - 21:00 Saturday 05:45 - 21:00 Sunday 07:15 - 21:15
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: Yes
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Available during staffing hours
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: Heated waiting areas are available
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Front right hand side and station front
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Bedford St Johns (Council Managed)
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from help point
  • Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997
  • Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Bedford St Johns
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: In 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.

More options for your journey from Bedford to Bristol

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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