- Must visit
Hopetown Darlington
Major railway museum on the original Stockton and Darlington Railway route. Exhibits, locomotives, and restored buildings explain Darlington's rail legacy.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bristol to Darlington
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
€157
Average ticket price on Sep 18
€157
Fastest journey on Sep 18
4 h 53 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
4 h 57 m
Trains on Sep 18
2
Distance
348 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bristol to Darlington is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bristol to Darlington will cost around €157 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €157.
Fast trains
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 2 trains from Bristol to Darlington, including 2 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 348 km distance in an average of 4 h 57 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 53 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 5 h 1 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.
9:00 AM5h01Bristol2:01 PMDarlington€1571One-way0 transfers- 8:00 AM4h53Bristol12:53 PMDarlington€1571One-way0 transfers
- 8:00 AM4h53Bristol12:53 PMDarlington€1571One-way0 transfers
- 9:00 AM5h01Bristol2:01 PMDarlington€1571One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Bristol to Darlington
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bristol to Darlington among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €39 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 6m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €39, while a train costs an average of €161.
Distance: 216 miles (348 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€161 Average price | €113 Average price | €39 Average price Cheapest | €87 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 51m Average total duration 4h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 6m Average total duration Fastest 1h 6m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 12m Average total duration 7h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bristol to Darlington is a bus with an average price of €39.
This is compared to other travel options from Bristol to Darlington:
A bus is €74 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bristol to Darlington costing on average €113.
A bus is €122 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bristol to Darlington costing on average €161.
The fastest way to travel from Bristol to Darlington is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 6m.
Other travel options to Darlington take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 21m.
Bus takes on average 7h 42m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bristol and Darlington including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bristol to Darlington 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 4m sooner (4h 21m by train vs 4h 25m by car). Tickets start at around €161 compared to roughly €87 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 Darlington train times
The table below shows live departures for Bristol to Darlington trains for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM Bristol | 4h53 | 12:53 PM Darlington | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:00 AM Bristol | 5h01 | 2:01 PM Darlington | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bristol to Darlington by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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 18
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Why should you book Bristol to Darlington trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Cross Country offer trains services from Bristol to Darlington.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bristol to Darlington.
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 Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Bristol to Darlington.
- 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bristol to Darlington.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Bristol to Darlington.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bristol to Darlington
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bristol to Darlington run on average 9 times per day, taking around 4h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €77 but you can travel from only €17 by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:45, the last at 19:35. The fastest train covers the 216 miles (348 km) distance in 3h 58m.
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
Distance 216 miles (348 km) |
Average train duration 4h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price €77 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 3h 58m |
First train 4:45 AM |
Last train 7:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 6 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
Train companies: CrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway from Bristol to Darlington trainsCrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway trains will get you between Bristol and Darlington from €17. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 58m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
€77
CrossCountry frequency
6 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
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
4h 14m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
€133
London North Eastern Railway frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Darlington
Things to do in Darlington
Discover the best of Darlington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Darlington trip today.
- Recommended
MIMA School of Art Gallery
University arts venue nearby with contemporary exhibitions, installations, and events. A good choice for modern art in the wider Darlington area.
- Recommended
Piercebridge Roman Fort Museum
Roman fort and archaeology museum a short trip from Darlington. Finds, reconstructions, and river views make it a strong regional heritage visit.
- Recommended
High Row
Historic town centre street lined with shops and civic buildings. It is central to exploring Darlington's market character and Victorian urban fabric.
- Recommended
Market Place
Traditional covered market area with surrounding lanes and street life. It is ideal for soaking up local atmosphere in a compact historic setting.
- Recommended
South Park
Large town park with formal gardens, a café building, aviary area, and bandstand. It is one of Darlington's best-loved green spaces for a stroll.
Parmo
A Teesside takeaway classic: chicken in a creamy béchamel-style sauce with chips. It is strongly associated with nearby Middlesbrough and the wider area.
Pan Haggerty Broth
A rich North East beef and vegetable broth, slowly cooked with pearl barley or split peas. It is a traditional working-class staple in County Durham homes.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Pan Haggerty
Layered potatoes, onions and cheese baked until golden. A beloved North East comfort dish, often served in pubs and homes across Durham and Teesside.
The Old Yard Tapas Bar
Well-known traditional pub venue serving cask ales and hearty British favourites in a historic, characterful atmosphere.
Estabulo Rodizio Bar & Grill
Established town-centre restaurant known for polished British and European cooking in a smart yet relaxed setting.
Akbar The Great
Popular Indian restaurant with a strong local reputation for classic curries, attentive service and a comfortable modern dining room.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and trains are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis; cafes usually do not expect tips.
Arriva UK Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Darlington Station -> Darlington Town Centre
- Distance
- 1.3 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Arriva buses in Darlington. Buy tickets in the app for faster boarding.
- Most local bus tickets are operator-specific, so check your bus company before boarding. Darlington town centre is walkable from the rail station.
FAQs: Trains from Bristol to Darlington
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bristol to Darlington 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 Darlington, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Bristol to Darlington can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €77, while the average price is around €161.
The train from Bristol to Darlington takes 3h 58m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Bristol to Darlington is 216 miles (348 km).
The first train from Bristol to Darlington leaves at 4:45 AM.
The last train from Bristol to Darlington leaves at 7:35 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bristol to Darlington.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bristol to Darlington. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bristol to Darlington.
The train station in Bristol that goes to Darlington is Bristol Temple Meads (BRI), which connects to Darlington station (DAR).
The cheapest way to get from Bristol to Darlington is by bus, with a cost of around €17.
The train journey from Bristol to Darlington offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through the picturesque landscapes of the Cotswolds, historic cities like Birmingham, and the rolling hills of the North Yorkshire countryside, providing a diverse visual experience.
A day trip from Bristol to Darlington is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 58m. Trains run 5 times per day and the distance is 216 miles (348 km).
For a fulfilling visit to Darlington, spending 2 to 3 days should be sufficient to explore its main attractions, such as the Head of Steam Railway Museum, South Park, and the Darlington Hippodrome, while also enjoying local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Bristol to Darlington.
Since neither Bristol nor Darlington 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 Darlington include Newcastle, Middlesbrough, Leeds, York, Thornaby.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bristol to Darlington 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 Darlington, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and train stations. Be wary of unofficial taxi services to avoid overcharging. It's also advisable to keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night. Always use licensed transportation and stay informed about local safety updates.
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 Darlington
Most Bristol to Darlington trains use the Bristol Temple Meads to Darlington station pair. Use this guide to compare Bristol and Darlington 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 Darlington
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 · €4 · every ~12 min
X39, 16, 39, 522 · 8m · €4 · every ~49 min
512 · 14m
9 · 15m · €4 · 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.
Which Darlington station do trains from Bristol arrive at?
Trains from Bristol to Darlington arrive at Darlington. Darlington is from Darlington city centre.
DarlingtonDarlington station, Bank Top, Darlington, County Durham, DL1 4AA
City-centre transport
Getting to Darlington from Darlington city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement coach services depart from the station entrance
Darlington train station facilities and services
Darlington has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Darlington.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Darlington.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Darlington.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Darlington: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Darlington: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Darlington: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: text phones are available and staff are on hand to assist as required due to no low level phones, Accessible taxis: Generally available but advance booking recommended, 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.
More options for your journey from Bristol to Darlington
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Darlington and Bristol
Most popular train connections to Darlington
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