- Must visit
The Higgins Bedford
Bedford’s main museum explores local history, archaeology, and the Panacea story, making it the essential first stop for understanding the town.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cheltenham to Bedford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08
Cheapest price on Sep 08
$211
Average ticket price on Sep 08
$211
Fastest journey on Sep 08
3 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 08
3 h 34 m
Trains on Sep 08
2
Distance
114 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cheltenham to Bedford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cheltenham to Bedford will cost around $211 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $211.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cheltenham to Bedford without transferring at least 2 times.
G15053+
C41873+
Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International6:48 AM3h37Cheltenham Spa (CNM)10:25 AMBedford station (BDM)$2111One-way2 transfers- W35221+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+C418797:55 AM3h30Cheltenham Spa (CNM)11:25 AMBedford station (BDM)$2111One-way2 transfers
- W35221+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+C418797:55 AM3h30Cheltenham Spa (CNM)11:25 AMBedford station (BDM)$2111One-way2 transfers
- G15053+C41873+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International6:48 AM3h37Cheltenham Spa (CNM)10:25 AMBedford station (BDM)$2111One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cheltenham to Bedford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cheltenham to Bedford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $26 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 16m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $26, while a train costs an average of $107.
Distance: 70 miles (114 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$107 Average price | $26 Average price Cheapest | $31 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 16m Average total duration Fastest 2h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 28m Average total duration 3h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 27m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cheltenham to Bedford is a bus with an average price of $26 (€21).
This is compared to other travel options from Cheltenham to Bedford:
A bus is $80 (€65) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cheltenham to Bedford costing on average $107 (€86).
The fastest way to travel from Cheltenham to Bedford is by train with an average journey time of 2h 46m.
Other travel options to Bedford take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 58m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cheltenham and Bedford including taking a bus and train.
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 $107 (€86) compared to roughly $31 (€25) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-76.00 (€-61.40). The journey takes 2h 46m versus 2h 27m 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
Cheltenham to Bedford train times
The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Bedford trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G15053+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+C41873 | 6:48 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 3h37 | 10:25 AM Bedford station (BDM) | 2 transfers | |
| W35221+C41879+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International | 7:55 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 3h30 | 11:25 AM Bedford station (BDM) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cheltenham to Bedford 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.
Tue
Sep 08
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Sep 09
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Sep 10
Sep 10
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Sep 11
Sep 11
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Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14
Sep 14
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cheltenham to Bedford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cheltenham to Bedford run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $44 (€36) but you can travel from only $20 (€16) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:15, the last at 20:40. The fastest train covers the 70 miles (114 km) distance in 2h 19m.
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 $20 (€16)
Distance 70 miles (114 km) |
Average train duration 2h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $44 (€36) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 2h 19m |
First train 2:15 AM |
Last train 8:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 28 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 $20 (€16)
Complete guide to Bedford
Things to do in Bedford
Discover the best of Bedford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bedford trip today.
- Recommended
The John Bunyan Museum
Museum inside John Bunyan’s former church site, focused on The Pilgrim’s Progress, Bunyan’s life, and Bedford’s nonconformist heritage.
- Recommended
Panacea Museum
Small museum telling the story of the Panacea Society, a unique Bedford religious community, through preserved rooms and archives.
- Must visit
The Embankment
Bedford’s signature riverside promenade, ideal for walking, boating views, and seeing why the town is closely tied to the Great Ouse.
- Recommended
High Street
Historic central street lined with shops and civic landmarks, useful for exploring Bedford’s commercial heart on foot.
- Recommended
Castle Quarter
Characterful historic quarter with independent businesses, old buildings, and easy access to museums, churches, and the river.
Bedfordshire Clanger
A Bedfordshire classic with suet pastry and layers of bacon, onion, and potato. It is a long-standing county comfort food still linked to local home cooking.
- Vegetarian
Apple Clanger
A local suet pastry pudding filled with chopped apples, sugar, and spice. It is a traditional Bedfordshire dessert once made to use orchard fruit.
- Vegetarian
Bedfordshire Lardy Cake
A rich yeasted fruit loaf with dried fruit and spice, associated with Bedfordshire baking traditions. Often served sliced with butter at tea time.
Anatolia
Popular Turkish and Mediterranean restaurant with generous grilled dishes, meze, and a smart casual atmosphere.
The Higgins Pantry
Well-regarded independent restaurant serving modern British and European dishes in a polished but relaxed town-centre setting.
The Embankment
Established riverside venue known for grilled meats, classic British dishes, and a lively pub atmosphere with broad appeal.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly manageable for tourists.
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
- £50+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. Restaurants may add a 10-12.5% service charge; otherwise 10% is common. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Cafes usually do not expect tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.40
- Day pass
- £4.60
To the city center
Bedford Railway Station -> Bedford Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Bedford, and mobile tickets can be bought in the Stagecoach Bus app.
- Bedford has no tram or metro. For local travel, buses are the main public transport option.
FAQs: Trains from Cheltenham to Bedford
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cheltenham to Bedford 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 Bedford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cheltenham to Bedford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $44 (€36), while the average price is around $107 (€86).
The train from Cheltenham to Bedford takes 2h 19m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Cheltenham to Bedford is 70 miles (114 km).
The first train from Cheltenham to Bedford leaves at 2:15 AM.
The last train from Cheltenham to Bedford leaves at 8:40 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cheltenham to Bedford.
The train station in Cheltenham that goes to Bedford is Cheltenham Spa (CNM), which connects to Bedford station (BDM).
The cheapest way to get from Cheltenham to Bedford is by bus, with a cost of around $20 (€16).
The train journey from Cheltenham to Bedford offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through the picturesque Cotswolds and charming countryside before reaching more urban landscapes closer to Bedford.
A day trip from Cheltenham to Bedford is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 19m. Trains operate 3 times per day over a distance of 70 miles (114 km).
Typically, spending 1-2 days in Bedford allows you to explore its key attractions, such as the Higgins Bedford Museum, Bedford Park, and the historic Embankment area.
No, you cannot take the train from Cheltenham to Bedford.
Since neither Cheltenham nor Bedford 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 Bedford include London, Luton, Leicester, Wellingborough, Harpenden.
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 Bedford, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and near transportation hubs. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers and fraudulent ticket sellers. It's advisable to use licensed transportation services and verify ticket purchases through official channels to avoid these issues.
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 Cheltenham to Bedford
Most Cheltenham to Bedford trains use the Cheltenham Spa to Bedford station pair, with some services arriving at Bedford St Johns. Use this guide to compare Cheltenham and Bedford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cheltenham
Arrival train stations in Bedford
Which Cheltenham station do trains to Bedford leave from?
Trains from Cheltenham to Bedford leave from Cheltenham Spa. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cheltenham city centre at Cheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom.
Cheltenham SpaCheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom+44 345 165 2030
City-centre transport
Getting to Cheltenham Spa from Cheltenham city centre
Cheltenham Spa is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD, E, G · 7m · $5 · every ~25 min
M1 · 8m
Cheltenham Spa train station facilities and services
Cheltenham Spa has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Railway Inn, The Coconut Tree
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham Spa. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Cheltenham Spa. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham Spa: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Queens Hotel Cheltenham, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cheltenham, Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cheltenham.
Which Bedford station do trains from Cheltenham arrive at?
Trains from Cheltenham to Bedford most often arrive at Bedford. Some services arrive at Bedford St Johns, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Bedford arrival station.
BedfordBedford station, Ashburnham Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK40 1DS
Bedford train station facilities and services
Bedford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bedford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bedford. ATMs are available at Bedford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bedford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bedford: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bedford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bedford: 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.
Bedford St JohnsBedford St Johns station, Melbourne Street, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK42 9AN
City-centre transport
Getting to Bedford St Johns from Bedford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesIn 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.
Bedford St Johns train station facilities and services
Bedford St Johns has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bedford St Johns.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bedford St Johns: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Bedford St Johns: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bedford St Johns: 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.
Most popular train connections from Cheltenham
More options for your journey from Cheltenham to Bedford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bedford and Cheltenham
Most popular train connections to Bedford
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