Bristol to Cambridge train with Great Western Railway

Wed, Sep 02
+ Add return
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Bristol to Cambridge

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 02

Cheapest price on Sep 02

$95

Average ticket price on Sep 02

$187

Fastest journey on Sep 02

3 h 9 m

Average journey duration on Sep 02

3 h 19 m

Trains on Sep 02

5

Distance

204 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bristol to Cambridge is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Bristol to Cambridge will cost around $187 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $95.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Bristol to Cambridge without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Great Western RailwayG14898+Great NorthernC93366+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross
    8:30 AM3h09
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    11:39 AMCambridge South
    $951One-way
    2 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01062+Great Western RailwayG15041+TubeTube from London Paddington to Farringdon+ThameslinkW45428
    8:33 AM3h32
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    12:05 PMCambridge South
    $1911One-way
    3 transfers
  • CrossCountryG00854+Great Western RailwayG15042+Great NorthernG27007+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross
    9:00 AM3h09
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    12:09 PMCambridge South
    $1911One-way
    3 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayG14897+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+Great NorthernG27006
    8:00 AM3h09
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    11:09 AMCambridge South
    $2291One-way
    2 transfers
  • CrossCountryG66721+Great Western RailwayW35169+ThameslinkW45479+TubeTube from London Paddington to Farringdon
    8:01 AM3h34
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    11:35 AMCambridge South
    $2291One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Bristol to Cambridge

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bristol to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $53 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 17m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $53, while a train costs an average of $113.

Distance: 126 miles (204 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$113

Average price

$53

Average price

Cheapest

$68

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 17m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 47m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 19m

Average total duration

4h 49m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 12m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Great Western Railway

Most popular train company

National Express

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 Bristol to Cambridge is a bus with an average price of $53.

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

A bus is $60 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bristol to Cambridge costing on average $113.

The fastest way to travel from Bristol to Cambridge is by train with an average journey time of 2h 47m.

Other travel options to Cambridge take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 49m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bristol and Cambridge including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bristol to Cambridge 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 25m sooner (2h 47m by train vs 3h 12m by car). Tickets start at around $113 compared to roughly $68 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.

Direct services run with Cross Country.

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

Bristol to Cambridge train times

The table below shows live departures for Bristol to Cambridge trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, September 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western RailwayG14897+Great NorthernG27006+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross8:00 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
3h09
11:09 AM Cambridge South2 transfers
CrossCountryG66721+Great Western RailwayW35169+TubeTube from London Paddington to Farringdon+ThameslinkW454798:01 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
3h34
11:35 AM Cambridge South3 transfers
Great Western RailwayG14898+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+Great NorthernC933668:30 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
3h09
11:39 AM Cambridge South2 transfers
CrossCountryG01062+Great Western RailwayG15041+TubeTube from London Paddington to Farringdon+ThameslinkW454288:33 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
3h32
12:05 PM Cambridge South3 transfers
CrossCountryG00854+Great Western RailwayG15042+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+Great NorthernG270079:00 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
3h09
12:09 PM Cambridge South3 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bristol to Cambridge 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.

Wed
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sat
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08

Why should you book Bristol to Cambridge trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Bristol to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bristol to Cambridge.

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 Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Bristol 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bristol to Cambridge.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bristol to Cambridge.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bristol to Cambridge

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Bristol to Cambridge run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 but you can travel from only $15 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:34, the last at 22:30. The fastest train covers the 126 miles (204 km) distance in 2h 26m.

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 $15
Distance
126 miles (204 km)
Average train duration
2h 47m
Cheapest ticket price
$38
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
2h 26m
First train
12:34 AM
Last train
10:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
1 day
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 $15

Train companies: Great Western Railway, Greater Anglia, CrossCountry, Great Northern from Bristol to Cambridge trainsGreat Western Railway, Greater Anglia, CrossCountry, Great Northern trains will get you between Bristol and Cambridge from $15. 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 26m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$38
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

Greater Anglia

About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greater Anglia Duration
2h 47m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
$138
Greater Anglia frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
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
4h 10m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$71
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

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 Great Northern Duration
3h 7m
Cheapest Great Northern Price
$139
Great Northern 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
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

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

The Fitzwilliam Museum

Major university museum with masterpieces, antiquities and decorative arts in a grand building. A leading cultural highlight in Cambridge.

  • Recommended

Scott Polar Research Institute Museum

Compact museum of polar exploration with artifacts, sledges and expedition stories. Excellent for understanding Arctic and Antarctic history.

  • Recommended

Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

Acclaimed anthropology museum displaying world cultures through remarkable objects and thoughtful interpretation. Rich, memorable and family friendly.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost more in peak season, but dining and local buses are manageable for most tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included; if not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Bristol to Cambridge

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bristol 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Bristol to Cambridge can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $38, while the average price is around $113.
The train from Bristol to Cambridge takes 2h 26m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Bristol to Cambridge is 126 miles (204 km).
The first train from Bristol to Cambridge leaves at 12:34 AM.
The last train from Bristol to Cambridge leaves at 10:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bristol to Cambridge.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bristol to Cambridge. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bristol to Cambridge.
The train station in Bristol that goes to Cambridge is Bristol Temple Meads (BRI), which connects to Cambridge station (CBG).
The cheapest way to get from Bristol to Cambridge is by bus, with a cost of around $15.
The train journey from Bristol to Cambridge is not typically considered scenic, as it primarily passes through urban and suburban areas, with limited views of the countryside.
A day trip from Bristol to Cambridge is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 26m. Trains run 6 times per day over a distance of 126 miles (204 km).
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 Bristol to Cambridge.
Since neither Bristol 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 Bristol 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 Bristol to Cambridge

Most Bristol to Cambridge trains use the Bristol Temple Meads to Cambridge station pair, with some services arriving at Cambridge South. Use this guide to compare Bristol and Cambridge train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Bristol
Arrival train stations in Cambridge
Bristol Temple MeadsStation Approach, Bristol, BS1 6QF, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

RedlandRedland station, South Road, Redland, Bristol, City of, BS6 6QPParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Redland from Bristol city centre

Redland is 1 km from Bristol city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainBristol Temple Meads - Severn Beach, Bristol Temple Meads - Avonmouth, Weston-super-Mare - Severn Beach, Weston-super-Mare - Avonmouth, Taunton - Severn Beach, Weston-super-Mare - Clifton Down · 11m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus72 · 6m · $5 · every ~8 min
72 · 12m · $5 · every ~8 min

Redland train station facilities and services

Redland has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Redland.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Redland: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Redland: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Redland: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free - Category A Station - This station has step free access to the platform. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Bristol, AirportLulsgate Bottom, North Somerset, Bristol BS48 3DY, United Kingdom+44 371 334 4444WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Bristol, Airport from Bristol city centre

Bristol, Airport is 11 km from Bristol city centre. Public transport options include:

BusFal · 19m · $14 · every ~4 min
A1 · 29m · $5 · every ~30 min
A1 · 32m · $5 · every ~30 min
A1 · 39m · $5 · every ~30 min

Bristol, Airport train station facilities and services

Bristol, Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Dexters, Brunel Bar & Kitchen

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the airport terminal.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Bristol, Airport. Information desks are located in the main terminal.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Bristol, Airport. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bristol, Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Bristol, Airport: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol, Airport: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hampton by Hilton Bristol Airport, Holiday Inn Bristol Airport, Winford Manor Hotel.

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone