- Must visit
The Fitzwilliam Museum
The University of Cambridge’s principal museum, known for antiquities, paintings, manuscripts, and decorative arts. A major cultural highlight with strong collections and a grand historic building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bedford to Cambridge
Showing times and prices for May 17
Cheapest price
$32
Average price
$56
Fastest journey
2 h 34 m
Average duration
2 h 45 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
40 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bedford to Cambridge is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bedford to Cambridge will cost around $56 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $32.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Bedford for Cambridge on Sun, May 17, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 17 the direct trains cover the 40 km distance in an average of 2 h 45 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 34 m .
On Sun, May 17 the slowest trains will take 3 h 14 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.
8:15 AM2h35Bedford10:50 AMCambridge$321One-way0 transfers- 7:15 AM2h35Bedford9:50 AMCambridge$491One-way0 transfers
9:13 AM2h34Bedford11:47 AMCambridge$701One-way0 transfers- 5:56 AM3h14Bedford9:10 AMCambridge$721One-way0 transfers
- 9:13 AM2h34Bedford11:47 AMCambridge$701One-way0 transfers
- 8:15 AM2h35Bedford10:50 AMCambridge$321One-way0 transfers
- 7:15 AM2h35Bedford9:50 AMCambridge$491One-way0 transfers
- 5:56 AM3h14Bedford9:10 AMCambridge$721One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Bedford to Cambridge
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bedford to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $48. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 42m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $48, and a train costs an average of $30.
Distance: 24 miles (40 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$87 Average price | $61 Average price Cheapest | $12 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 12m Average total duration Fastest 1h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 35m Average total duration 4h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 55m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Bedford to Cambridge is a bus with an average price of $61 (€50).
This is compared to other travel options from Bedford to Cambridge:
A bus is $26 (€21) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bedford to Cambridge costing on average $87 (€70).
The fastest way to travel from Bedford to Cambridge is by train with an average journey time of 1h 42m.
Other travel options to Cambridge take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bedford and Cambridge including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bedford to Cambridge 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 $87 (€70) compared to roughly $12 (€10) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-74.92 (€-60.53). The journey takes 1h 42m versus 55m 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 Cambridge train times
The table below shows live departures for Bedford to Cambridge trains for today, Saturday, May 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 G81624+ Y12317 | Delayed 8:24 AM 8:10 AMBedford station (BDM) | 2h04 | 10:14 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 1 transfer | |
| G84460+Y12317 | Delayed 8:31 AM 8:10 AMBedford station (BDM) | 2h29 | 10:39 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 1 transfer | |
| G84465+Y12318 | Delayed 9:01 AM 8:40 AMBedford station (BDM) | 2h29 | 11:09 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 1 transfer | |
| G81630+Y12318 | Delayed 8:54 AM 8:40 AMBedford station (BDM) | 2h03 | 10:43 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 1 transfer | |
| G84469+Y12319 | Delayed 9:31 AM 9:10 AMBedford station (BDM) | 2h29 | 11:39 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 1 transfer | |
| G81634+Y12319 | Delayed 9:24 AM 9:10 AMBedford station (BDM) | 2h04 | 11:14 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bedford to Cambridge by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Sun
May 17
May 17
Mon
May 18
May 18
Tue
May 19
May 19
Wed
May 20
May 20
Thu
May 21
May 21
Fri
May 22
May 22
Sat
May 23
May 23
Why should you book Bedford to Cambridge trains with Omio?
Thameslink as well as Great Northern or east_midlands_trains offer trains services from Bedford to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bedford to Cambridge.
Why book with Omio vs Thameslink?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Thameslink, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Northern or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Bedford to Cambridge.
- 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 Thameslink with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bedford to Cambridge.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Northern or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Bedford to Cambridge.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Bedford to Cambridge.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bedford to Cambridge
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bedford to Cambridge run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $30 (€24) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:40, the last at 23:53. The fastest train covers the 24 miles (40 km) distance in 2h 3m.
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
Distance 24 miles (40 km) |
Average train duration 1h 42m |
Cheapest ticket price $30 (€24) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 3m |
First train 12:40 AM |
Last train 11:53 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 2 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
Train companies: Thameslink, Great Northern, east_midlands_trains from Bedford to Cambridge trainsThameslink, Great Northern, east_midlands_trains trains will get you between Bedford and Cambridge from $30 (€24). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
2h 29m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€26)
Thameslink frequency
2 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
Family area
Great Northern
About
Great Northern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It offers a wide range of services, including high-speed trains, regional trains, and sleeper services. The high-speed trains are called InterCity Express Trains and they offer a fast and comfortable journey between major cities. The regional trains are called Regional Express Trains and they provide a slower but more frequent service to smaller towns and villages. The sleeper services are called Caledonian Sleeper Trains and they offer overnight journeys with comfortable sleeping compartments. Great Northern offers a variety of ticket types, including single, return, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Great Northern are London to Cambridge, London to Peterborough, and London to Norwich. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 3m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€24)
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
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free, maximum two dogs per passenger, must be on lead
Quiet zone
east_midlands_trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 58m
Cheapest Price
$100 (€81)
east_midlands_trains frequency
14 a day
Complete guide to Cambridge
Things to do in Cambridge
Discover the best of Cambridge — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cambridge trip today.
- Must visit
Kettle's Yard
A celebrated house museum and modern art gallery with a distinctive domestic setting and contemporary exhibitions. One of Cambridge’s most stylish and photogenic cultural stops.
- Recommended
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Compact but highly regarded university museum with world cultures, archaeology, and ethnographic collections. Especially good for thoughtful, lesser-known visits in central Cambridge.
- Must visit
King's Parade
One of Cambridge’s signature streets, lined with famous college views and always busy with visitors. It is among the most recognizable and photogenic stretches in the city.
- Must visit
Grantchester Meadows
Scenic walking area along the river leading out from Cambridge toward Grantchester. Very popular for peaceful walks, picnics, and social-media-friendly countryside views.
- Recommended
Market Square
Historic central square with daily market activity, surrounded by university landmarks and city shopping streets. A practical and lively starting point for exploring Cambridge.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cambridge Burnt Cream
Cambridge’s version of crème brûlée, linked to Trinity College and traditionally topped with a caramelised sugar crust branded with the college crest.
- Vegetarian
Chelsea Bun
A sticky spiced currant bun long associated with Fitzbillies in Cambridge, famous locally as a classic sweet treat with tea or coffee.
Afternoon Tea
A classic English ritual of tea served with finger sandwiches, scones, and cakes, widely enjoyed in Cambridge tearooms and hotels.
Midsummer House
Refined riverside restaurant known for modern British fine dining, tasting menus, and polished service in an elegant setting.
The Eagle
Historic Cambridge pub famous for classic British dishes, real ale, and its strong links to the city’s academic and wartime history.
Fitzbillies
Iconic Cambridge café and bakery best known for Chelsea buns, brunch, cakes, and a long-standing local reputation.
Pound Sterling
Cambridge is pricier than many UK cities, with high hotel and dining costs, but casual meals and buses are manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple meal.
- 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 is sometimes included; if not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Round up in taxis. No tip needed for pubs, cafés, or counter service.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Cambridge Railway Station -> Cambridge City Centre
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Tap in with a contactless card or mobile wallet on most Stagecoach buses in Cambridge; fares are capped automatically.
- Walking and cycling are often faster in central Cambridge due to congestion and limited parking, so combine buses with short walks when possible.
FAQs: Trains from Bedford to Cambridge
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bedford to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Bedford to Cambridge can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $30 (€24), while the average price is around $87 (€70).
The train from Bedford to Cambridge takes 2h 3m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Bedford to Cambridge leaves at 12:40 AM.
The distance by train from Bedford to Cambridge is 24 miles (40 km).
The last train from Bedford to Cambridge leaves at 11:53 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bedford to Cambridge.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bedford to Cambridge.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bedford to Cambridge.
The train station in Bedford that goes to Cambridge is Bedford station (BDM), which connects to Cambridge station (CBG).
The cheapest way to get from Bedford to Cambridge is by train, with a cost of around $30 (€24).
The train journey from Bedford to Cambridge offers scenic views of the English countryside, featuring rolling fields, charming villages, and lush greenery, making it a pleasant and picturesque experience.
A day trip from Bedford to Cambridge is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 3m. Trains run 6 times per day.
In Cambridge, you can enjoy punting on the River Cam for scenic views, visit the interactive Cambridge Science Centre, explore the historic Market Square, or attend a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre. Discover the city's rich history on a guided walking tour. Don't miss the stunning King's College Chapel, the art-filled Fitzwilliam Museum, the picturesque Backs, the historic Trinity College, and the tranquil Cambridge University Botanic Garden.
For a fulfilling experience in Cambridge, spending two to three days is ideal to explore its historic colleges, museums, and the picturesque River Cam.
Yes, you can take the train from Bedford to Cambridge.
Since neither Bedford nor Cambridge 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 Cambridge include London, Stevenage, Hitchin, Peterborough, Letchworth Garden City.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bedford to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as market squares and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides offering services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official tour operators. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction scams near popular landmarks. Staying alert and securing personal belongings can help ensure a safe visit.
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 Cambridge
Bedford
Cambridge
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 Cambridge.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:45 - 21:00 Saturday 05:45 - 21:00 Sunday 07:15 - 21:15
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Taxis
- Taxi: Yes
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
- Toilets Location: Available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Heated waiting areas are available
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Front right hand side and station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelBike Parking
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Parking
- Car Park: Bedford St Johns (Council Managed)
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 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.
The major train station for arrivals in Cambridge is Cambridge. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cambridge for your journey to Cambridge from Bedford.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:10 - 23:00 Saturday 05:10 - 23:00 Sunday 07:00 - 22:55
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: Premium Bay
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The accessible toilets are on platform 4
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Platforms 1, 4 and 7
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Cycle point is by the Car Park
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cambridge
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement buses depart from the front of the station
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible taxis: Details of the nearest taxi will be supplied by station staff
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: Station foyer
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Waiting rooms are available on each platform
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Adjacent station building.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point
- Helpline Contact: 0800 028 2878
Public transit options for Cambridge North
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: From bus stop on station forecourt.
Most popular train connections from Bedford
More options for your journey from Bedford to Cambridge
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cambridge and Bedford
Most popular train connections to Cambridge
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