Bristol to Canterbury train with Great Western Railway

Sun, Jun 14
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Great Western Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bristol to Canterbury

Showing times and prices for Jun 14

Cheapest price

$72

Average price

$97

Fastest journey

3 h 16 m

Average duration

3 h 36 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

256 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Bristol to Canterbury will cost around $97 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $72.

Fast trains

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

  • Great Western RailwayV91544+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+SoutheasternP85714
    5:20 PM3h16
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    8:36 PMCanterbury West (CBW)
    $721One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayV91543+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+SoutheasternP85729
    7:20 PM3h16
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    10:36 PMCanterbury West (CBW)
    $721One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayC05990+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+SoutheasternP85737
    7:30 PM4h06
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    11:36 PMCanterbury West (CBW)
    $721One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayC00847+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+SoutheasternP85720
    6:00 PM3h36
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    9:36 PMCanterbury West (CBW)
    $721One-way
    2 transfers
  • CrossCountryG00734+Great Western RailwayC00139+SoutheasternP85737+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International
    7:31 PM4h05
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    11:36 PMCanterbury West (CBW)
    $1461One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Bristol to Canterbury

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bristol to Canterbury among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 52m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a train costs an average of $39.

Distance: 159 miles (256 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$78

Average price

$24

Average price

Cheapest

$80

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 22m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 52m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 34m

Average total duration

5h 4m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 15m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.6kg

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 Canterbury is a bus with an average price of $24 (€20).

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

A bus is $54 (€44) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bristol to Canterbury costing on average $78 (€64).

The fastest way to travel from Bristol to Canterbury is by train with an average journey time of 2h 52m.

Other travel options to Canterbury take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 4m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bristol and Canterbury including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bristol to Canterbury among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 23m faster (2h 52m by train vs 3h 15m by car) and roughly $1 (€1) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($78 (€64) vs $80 (€65)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Compare prices and tickets Bristol to Canterbury 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
Jun 14
Mon
Jun 15
Tue
Jun 16
Wed
Jun 17
Thu
Jun 18
Fri
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20

Why should you book Bristol to Canterbury trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway operates all trains services from Bristol to Canterbury.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bristol to Canterbury.

Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?

  • 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bristol to Canterbury.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bristol to Canterbury

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Bristol to Canterbury run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $39 (€31) but you can travel from only $18 (€14) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:53, the last at 21:23. The fastest train covers the 159 miles (256 km) distance in 3h 16m.

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 $18 (€14)
Distance
159 miles (256 km)
Average train duration
2h 52m
Cheapest ticket price
$39 (€31)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 16m
First train
4:53 AM
Last train
9:23 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
35 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 $18 (€14)

Train companies: Great Western Railway from Bristol to Canterbury trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Bristol and Canterbury from $18 (€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 Duration
3h 16m
Cheapest Price
$39 (€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

FAQs: Trains from Bristol to Canterbury

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bristol to Canterbury 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 Canterbury, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Bristol to Canterbury can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $39 (€31), while the average price is around $78 (€64).
The train from Bristol to Canterbury takes 3h 16m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Bristol to Canterbury is 159 miles (256 km).
The first train from Bristol to Canterbury leaves at 4:53 AM.
The last train from Bristol to Canterbury leaves at 9:23 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bristol to Canterbury.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bristol to Canterbury.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bristol to Canterbury.
The train station in Bristol that goes to Canterbury is Bristol Temple Meads (BRI), which connects to Canterbury West (CBW).
The cheapest way to get from Bristol to Canterbury is by bus, with a cost of around $18 (€14).
The train journey from Bristol to Canterbury offers scenic views as it traverses the picturesque English countryside, including rolling hills and charming towns, providing a pleasant visual experience for travelers.
A day trip from Bristol to Canterbury is not feasible, as the journey takes 3h 16m. However, there are 6 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 159 miles (256 km).
In Canterbury, you can explore the historic streets on a guided walking tour, enjoy a punting tour on the River Stour, and visit the Canterbury Tales attraction. Attend a performance at The Marlowe Theatre or discover the local food scene with a culinary tour. Don't miss the Canterbury Cathedral, St. Augustine's Abbey, and the Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint. Additionally, explore the Canterbury Roman Museum and take a leisurely walk in Westgate Gardens.
To fully experience Canterbury, including its historic sites like Canterbury Cathedral, the Roman Museum, and the charming streets, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Bristol to Canterbury.
Since neither Bristol nor Canterbury 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 Canterbury include London, Chatham, Dover, Rochester, Ashford.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bristol to Canterbury 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 Canterbury, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and around popular tourist sites. Scams involving overcharging or unofficial taxi services can also occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed transportation. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps 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 Canterbury

Bristol
Canterbury
The major train station for departures in Bristol is Bristol Temple Meads. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bristol Temple Meads for your trip from Bristol to Canterbury.
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
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sat: 05:30 - 21:30
  • Sun: 06:45 - 21:30
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: WHS/M&S; Uppercrust; Pumpkin; Pasty Shop; Starbucks; Lily's Flowers
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Dining
Dining
  • The Pasty Shop
  • Starbucks
  • Upper Crust
  • Pumpkin Café
  • Hart's Bakery
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: The taxi rank is available on the station forecourt. If you require an accessible taxi please approach a member of staff for assistance. To reach the station forecourt; exit through the ticket barriers, turn left and exit through the main doors. You can find more information about local taxi services here.
  • Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair access, elevators, escalators.
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Ladies, Gents and Baby Change are located in the Passenger Subway. The Baby Change is located next to the Ladies Toilets. An additional Baby Change facility is also located in the Accessible Toilet on Platform 13/15. Accessible Toilets are located on Platform 3 by the Help Desk and on Platform 13/15.
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • National key toilets location: Radar Key available from station staff.
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
Hotel
  • Holiday Inn Express Bristol City Center
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bristol City Center
  • Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City Center
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: Waiting Rooms are located on Platform 5/7 and on Platform 13/15
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Sat: 05:30 - 21:30
  • Sun: 06:45 - 21:30
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: The main storage location for bikes is at The Friary at Temple Quay, just to the right of the ramped exit from the long stay car park. A limited bike storage location can be found on Station Approach by Queen Anne's Gate. There is no longer any bike storage inside the station.
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located near the main entrance.
Public transit options for Bristol Temple Meads
  • Bus lines: A1, 1, 2, 8, 39/349/X39, 70, 73, 178, 376
  • Train lines: CrossCountry, Great Western Main Line, Severn Beach Line
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Station front. Alternative: the lower approach road, outside the front of Bristol & Exeter House
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
phone
Phone Number
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: No
  • Step free access note: Step free Category B1 station - step free access available to both platforms via ramp and choice of drop off points, however adjacent car parks need to be used for full step free access. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station.
  • Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
  • Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Ramp for train access: No
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage location: Located on both platforms
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Clifton Down
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Bus stops on either side of Whiteladies Road outside Clifton Down Shopping Centre
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
  • Accessible taxis: No
  • Ramp for train access: No
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage location: platform
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Montpelier
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Bus stops on either side of Cheltenham Road

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