- Must visit
Poole Museum
Harbourside museum of Poole's maritime, social, and pottery history in restored quayside buildings. A strong introduction to the town's past and port identity.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cheltenham to Poole
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€164
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€172
Fastest journey on Sep 20
3 h 48 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
3 h 50 m
Trains on Sep 20
22
Distance
132 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cheltenham to Poole is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cheltenham to Poole will cost around €172 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €164.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cheltenham to Poole without transferring at least 3 times.
10:10 AM4h21Cheltenham2:31 PMPoole€1641One-way2 transfers- 11:10 AM4h21Cheltenham3:31 PMPoole€1641One-way2 transfers
- 12:10 PM4h21Cheltenham4:31 PMPoole€1641One-way2 transfers
- 12:52 PM4h39Cheltenham5:31 PMPoole€1641One-way2 transfers
- 2:29 PM4h04Cheltenham6:33 PMPoole€1641One-way2 transfers
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4:02 PM3h48Cheltenham7:50 PMPoole€1821One-way3 transfers- 1:00 PM3h50Cheltenham4:50 PMPoole€1821One-way3 transfers
- 2:00 PM3h50Cheltenham5:50 PMPoole€1821One-way3 transfers
- 3:00 PM3h50Cheltenham6:50 PMPoole€1821One-way3 transfers
- 5:00 PM3h50Cheltenham8:50 PMPoole€1821One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cheltenham to Poole
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cheltenham to Poole among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €50 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 43m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €50, while a train costs an average of €85.
Distance: 82 miles (132 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€85 Average price | €50 Average price Cheapest | €30 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 43m Average total duration Fastest 3h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 46m Average total duration 5h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 36m 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 Poole is a bus with an average price of €50.
This is compared to other travel options from Cheltenham to Poole:
A bus is €35 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cheltenham to Poole costing on average €85.
The fastest way to travel from Cheltenham to Poole is by train with an average journey time of 3h 13m.
Other travel options to Poole take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 16m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cheltenham and Poole including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cheltenham to Poole among Omio's users.
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 €85 compared to roughly €30 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-54.80. The journey takes 3h 13m versus 2h 36m 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 Poole train times
The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Poole trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:52 AM Cheltenham | 4h14 | 1:06 PM Poole | 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 Poole 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.
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Sep 20
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Why should you book Cheltenham to Poole trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway operates all trains services from Cheltenham to Poole.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cheltenham to Poole.
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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cheltenham to Poole.
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 Cheltenham to Poole.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cheltenham to Poole
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cheltenham to Poole run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €75 but you can travel from only €21 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:00, the last at 20:28. The fastest train covers the 82 miles (132 km) distance in 3h 5m.
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 €21
Distance 82 miles (132 km) |
Average train duration 3h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price €75 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 5m |
First train 5:00 AM |
Last train 8:28 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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 €21
Train companies: Great Western Railway from Cheltenham to Poole trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Cheltenham and Poole from €21. 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
3h 5m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
€75
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
Complete guide to Poole
Things to do in Poole
Discover the best of Poole — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Poole trip today.
- Recommended
The Gallery at Lighthouse
Contemporary art centre with changing exhibitions, a respected gallery programme, and cultural events. Worth visiting for modern visual art in central Poole.
- Recommended
Poole Old Lifeboat Museum
Volunteer-run museum preserving Poole's RNLI history, lifeboats, and rescue stories. A compact stop for maritime heritage near the quay.
- Must visit
Poole Quay
Historic waterfront lined with boats, heritage buildings, and harbour views. A must for atmosphere, walks, and seeing Poole's maritime character up close.
- Must visit
Brownsea Island
National Trust island of heath, lagoon, and woodland in Poole Harbour. Famous for red squirrels, birdlife, and memorable coastal walking.
- Must visit
Sandbanks
Sandy peninsula with sweeping harbour and bay views, beach access, and an easy walking route. Popular for sunsets, watersports scenery, and open space.
- Gluten-free
Poole Crab
Fresh shellfish long landed on Poole Quay. Locally served crab highlights the harbour’s fishing heritage and is prized for sweet, delicate meat.
Toad In The Hole
A Dorset staple of local sausages baked in Yorkshire pudding batter. It is a comforting pub classic widely eaten across Poole and the county.
- Vegetarian
Dorset Apple Cake
Traditional Dorset fruit cake made with dried fruit, spice and tea. It is closely associated with county baking and often served sliced with tea.
The Guildhall Tavern
Elegant harbourside seafood restaurant known for refined local fish dishes, tasting menus and polished service in a special-occasion setting.
Storm Fish Restaurant
Popular waterside restaurant on Poole Quay serving fresh seafood, grilled fish and shellfish in a relaxed, lively harbour atmosphere.
Poole Arms
Well-known traditional fish and chip restaurant near the quay, valued for sustainably sourced seafood and a casual family-friendly setting.
British pound sterling (£)
Poole is moderate for UK seaside towns: lodging rises in summer, dining is mid-priced, and local buses are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4.20 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes may use tip jars, but small change only.
More Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.50
- Day pass
- £4.90
To the city center
Poole Railway Station -> Poole Quay, Poole
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Contactless card and mobile payments are accepted on Morebus services in Poole. Ask the driver for the best value ticket if making multiple trips.
- Poole town centre is compact, and Poole Quay is a short walk from Poole Railway Station. Check live bus times in the More Bus app before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Cheltenham to Poole
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cheltenham to Poole 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 Poole, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cheltenham to Poole can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €75, while the average price is around €85.
The train from Cheltenham to Poole takes 3h 5m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Cheltenham to Poole leaves at 5:00 AM.
The distance by train from Cheltenham to Poole is 82 miles (132 km).
The last train from Cheltenham to Poole leaves at 8:28 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cheltenham to Poole.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cheltenham to Poole.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cheltenham to Poole.
The train station in Cheltenham that goes to Poole is Cheltenham Spa (CNM), which connects to Poole station (POO).
The cheapest way to get from Cheltenham to Poole is by bus, with a cost of around €21.
The train journey from Cheltenham to Poole offers a mix of scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque countryside of the Cotswolds and the rolling hills of Dorset, providing glimpses of charming villages and lush landscapes along the route.
A day trip from Cheltenham to Poole is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 5m. Trains run 3 times per day and the distance is 82 miles (132 km).
For a fulfilling visit to Poole, plan to spend around 2 to 3 days. This allows enough time to explore its beautiful harbor, visit the nearby beaches, and enjoy local attractions such as Brownsea Island and the Poole Museum.
Yes, you can take the train from Cheltenham to Poole.
Since neither Cheltenham nor Poole 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 Poole include Southampton, Bournemouth, Hamworthy, Christchurch, New Milton.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cheltenham to Poole 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 Poole, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the harbor and popular beaches. Avoid unlicensed taxi services and be wary of overcharging. When using ATMs, ensure they are in secure locations to prevent card skimming. Always keep an eye on personal belongings in busy spots and follow local advice for safe travel around marine and coastal areas.
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 Poole
Most Cheltenham to Poole trains use the Cheltenham Spa to Poole station pair. Use this guide to compare Cheltenham and Poole 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 Poole
Which Cheltenham station do trains to Poole leave from?
Trains from Cheltenham to Poole 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 · €4 · 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 Poole station do trains from Cheltenham arrive at?
Trains from Cheltenham to Poole most often arrive at Poole. Some services arrive at Hamworthy, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Poole arrival station.
PoolePoole station, Serpentine Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 2BQ
City-centre transport
Getting to Poole from Poole city centre
Poole is 1 km from Poole city centre. Public transport options include:
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesStation forecourt, off Serpentine Road
Poole train station facilities and services
Poole has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Poole.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Poole. ATMs are available at Poole.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Poole.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Poole: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Poole: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Poole: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - There is level access to both sides of the station by ramps. Interchange between platforms is via a ramped underpass at the London end of the platforms. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Cheltenham
More options for your journey from Cheltenham to Poole
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Poole and Cheltenham
Most popular train connections to Poole
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