- Must visit
Dorset Museum & Art Gallery
Modern county museum showcasing Dorset archaeology, geology, literature, and local history through well-curated galleries and family displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cheltenham to Dorchester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 02
Cheapest price on Oct 02
$54
Average ticket price on Oct 02
$54
Fastest journey on Oct 02
3 h 16 m
Average journey duration on Oct 02
3 h 16 m
Trains on Oct 02
1
Distance
134 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cheltenham to Dorchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cheltenham to Dorchester will cost around $54 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $54.
Fast trains
On Fri, Oct 02, we found 1 trains from Cheltenham to Dorchester, including 1 direct services.
On Fri, Oct 02 the direct trains cover the 134 km distance in an average of 3 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 16 m .
On Fri, Oct 02 the slowest trains will take 3 h 16 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.
7:52 AM3h16Cheltenham11:08 AMDorchester$541One-way0 transfers
- 7:52 AM3h16Cheltenham11:08 AMDorchester$541One-way0 transfers
Live departures
Cheltenham to Dorchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Dorchester trains for today, Thursday, October 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:52 PM Cheltenham | 3h02 | 9:54 PM Dorchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cheltenham to Dorchester by train
Compare 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Cheltenham to Dorchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Take a train from Cheltenham to Dorchester and enjoy the approximately 83 miles (134 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 05:52, the last at 20:24.
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 83 miles (134 km) |
First train 5:52 AM |
Last train 8:24 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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
Complete guide to Dorchester
Things to do in Dorchester
Discover the best of Dorchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Dorchester trip today.
- Recommended
Shire Hall Museum
Museum in the old courthouse exploring justice, prisons, and civil rights, including the Tolpuddle Martyrs story and historic cells.
- Recommended
Max Gate
National Trust house designed by Thomas Hardy, preserved with original interiors and personal objects reflecting his life and work.
- Recommended
Cornhill
Main civic square with markets, events, and historic buildings; a practical starting point for exploring central Dorchester on foot.
- Recommended
Borough Gardens
Attractive riverside park with open lawns, play areas, and gentle walks, popular for a relaxing break near the town center.
- Recommended
Brewery Square
Major new development with broad public spaces, modern architecture, and useful access to shops, cinema, and walking routes.
Dorset Apple Cake?
A flaky Dorset pastry filled with apple, onion and cured pork. It is a county classic linked to farm workers and old West Country baking traditions.
- Vegetarian
Dorset Knob
A soft yeasted tea bread from Dorset, often eaten sliced with butter. It is a beloved regional bake with links to village bakeries and county fairs.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Dorset Knob Biscuit
A hard, twice-baked bread roll from Dorset, traditionally paired with cheese or ale. It is one of the county’s best-known historic bakery products.
The Dining Room at Summer Lodge
Refined modern British dining in a smart setting, known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service. A leading fine dining choice near Dorchester.
Al Molo Dorchester
Popular bistro-style restaurant with modern British cooking and a friendly town-centre feel. Known for well-prepared seasonal dishes.
The Brewers Arms
Traditional pub in central Dorchester serving local ales and hearty British dishes. Relaxed atmosphere and a reliable stop for classic comfort food.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for southern England. Hotels and dining cost more than many UK towns, but buses are affordable and budget meals are easy to find.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Cafes do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5
To the city center
Dorchester South -> South Street, Dorchester
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on First Bus services in Dorchester. Ask the driver for the best fare if you are making more than one trip.
- Dorchester town centre is walkable from Dorchester South, but local buses are useful for onward travel. Check live departures in the First Bus app before boarding.
FAQs: Trains from Cheltenham to Dorchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cheltenham to Dorchester 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 Dorchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The distance by train from Cheltenham to Dorchester is 83 miles (134 km).
The first train from Cheltenham to Dorchester leaves at 5:52 AM.
The last train from Cheltenham to Dorchester leaves at 8:24 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cheltenham to Dorchester.
The train station in Cheltenham that goes to Dorchester is Cheltenham Spa (CNM), which connects to Dorchester West (DCW).
The train journey from Cheltenham to Dorchester offers scenic views of the English countryside, rolling hills, and charming villages, particularly as it passes through the Cotswolds and along parts of the Jurassic Coast.
No, you cannot take the train from Cheltenham to Dorchester.
Popular day trips by train from Dorchester include Bournemouth, Weymouth, Wareham, Branksome, Christchurch.
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 Dorchester, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and distractions used to steal personal belongings. It's advisable to use licensed transportation, keep valuables secure, and stay aware of surroundings to 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 Cheltenham to Dorchester
Most Cheltenham to Dorchester trains use the Cheltenham Spa to Dorchester West station pair. Use this guide to compare Cheltenham and Dorchester 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 Dorchester
Which Cheltenham station do trains to Dorchester leave from?
Trains from Cheltenham to Dorchester 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 Dorchester station do trains from Cheltenham arrive at?
Trains from Cheltenham to Dorchester arrive at Dorchester West. Dorchester West is 0 miles (1 km) from Dorchester city centre.
Dorchester WestDorchester West station, Damers Road, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 2LB
City-centre transport
Getting to Dorchester West from Dorchester city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesFront of the station
Dorchester West train station facilities and services
Dorchester West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Dorchester West.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dorchester West: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Dorchester West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dorchester West: Staff help available: No, Step free access note: Step-free category B2 station - “Some step-free access to all platforms.”- This station has a degree of step free access to the platforms. Access between platforms is via a stepped footbridge. 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 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 Dorchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Dorchester and Cheltenham
Most popular train connections to Dorchester
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