- 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 Croydon to Bedford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- $48
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- $65
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 1 h 19 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 1 h 21 m
- Trains on Nov 04
- 51
- Distance
- 87 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Croydon to Bedford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Croydon to Bedford will cost around $65 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $48.
Fast trains
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 51 trains from Croydon to Bedford, including 35 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 87 km distance in an average of 1 h 21 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 19 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 1 h 22 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.
12:03 PM 1h22 Croydon 1:25 PM Bedford $48 1 One-way 1 transfer12:33 PM 1h22 Croydon 1:55 PM Bedford $48 1 One-way 1 transfer1:03 PM 1h22 Croydon 2:25 PM Bedford $48 1 One-way 1 transfer1:33 PM 1h22 Croydon 2:55 PM Bedford $48 1 One-way 1 transfer2:03 PM 1h22 Croydon 3:25 PM Bedford $48 1 One-way 1 transfer
5:10 PM 1h19 Croydon 6:29 PM Bedford $48 1 One-way 1 transfer5:40 PM 1h19 Croydon 6:59 PM Bedford $48 1 One-way 1 transfer12:03 PM 1h22 Croydon 1:25 PM Bedford $48 1 One-way 1 transfer12:33 PM 1h22 Croydon 1:55 PM Bedford $48 1 One-way 1 transfer1:03 PM 1h22 Croydon 2:25 PM Bedford $48 1 One-way 1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Croydon to Bedford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Croydon to Bedford run on average 11 times per day, taking around 1h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $28 if you book in advance.
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:14, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 54 miles (87 km) distance in 1h 9m.
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 54 miles (87 km) |
Average train duration 1h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $28 |
Trains per day 11 |
Direct trains 10 |
Fastest train 1h 9m |
First train 12:14 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 2 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
Frequently asked questions about your Croydon to Bedford trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Croydon to Bedford.
Train ticket prices from Croydon to Bedford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $28, while the average price is around $41.
The train from Croydon to Bedford takes 1h 9m and runs 11 per day.
The distance by train from Croydon to Bedford is 54 miles (87 km).
The first train from Croydon to Bedford leaves at 12:14 AM.
The last train from Croydon to Bedford leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Croydon to Bedford. This service operates 10 times per day, provided by Thameslink.
Why should you book Croydon to Bedford trains with Omio?
Thameslink as well as East Midlands Railway offer trains services from Croydon to Bedford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Croydon to Bedford.
Why book with Omio vs Thameslink?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Thameslink, but also compare tickets for the likes of East Midlands Railway to find the best option for your trip from Croydon to Bedford.
- 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of East Midlands Railway to find the best option for your trip from Croydon to Bedford.
Train companies: Thameslink, East Midlands Railway from Croydon to Bedford trainsThameslink, East Midlands Railway trains will get you between Croydon and Bedford from $28. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
East Midlands Railway
About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average East Midlands Railway Duration
1h 9m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
$30
East Midlands Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the 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
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
Quiet zone
Thameslink
About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Thameslink Duration
1h 23m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
$28
Thameslink frequency
10 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Croydon and Bedford
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Croydon to Bedford.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Croydon to Bedford.
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.
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.
Plan your visit to Bedford
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Bedford.
The train journey from Croydon to Bedford offers a mix of urban and countryside views, including glimpses of the scenic English countryside and picturesque villages, making parts of the trip quite pleasant visually.
Popular day trips by train from Bedford include London, Luton, Leicester, Wellingborough, Harpenden.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Croydon to Bedford
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Croydon 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Croydon to Bedford.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Croydon to Bedford
Most Croydon to Bedford trains use the East Croydon to Bedford station pair, with some services arriving at Bedford St Johns. Use this guide to compare Croydon and Bedford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Croydon
Arrival train stations in Bedford
Which Croydon station do trains to Bedford leave from?
Trains from Croydon to Bedford leave from East Croydon. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Croydon city centre at East Croydon station, Station Approach, Croydon, Greater London, CR0 1LF.
East CroydonEast Croydon station, Station Approach, Croydon, Greater London, CR0 1LF
City-centre transport
Getting to East Croydon from Croydon city centre
East Croydon is 1 km from Croydon city centre. Public transport options include:
BusN68 · 11m · $3 · every ~2 min
East Croydon train station facilities and services
East Croydon 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, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at East Croydon.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at East Croydon. ATMs are available at East Croydon.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at East Croydon.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at East Croydon: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at East Croydon: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at East Croydon: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free access to all platforms. Lifts to overbridge from all platforms and side entrance. Long steep ramps to platforms from main entrance. (over 1:10 gradient). Assistance Meeting Point is the Information Point on station concourse, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Southern 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.
PurleyPurley station, Station Approach, Whytecliffe Road, Purley, London, CR2 2AP
City-centre transport
Getting to Purley from Croydon city centre
Purley is 5 km from Croydon city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Bridge - Caterham, London Victoria - Reigate, Tulse Hill - Caterham, London Bridge - Tattenham Corner, London Victoria - Brighton, London Victoria - Three Bridges, London Victoria - Ore, London Victoria - Horsham, London Bridge - Purley, London Victoria - Redhill, East Croydon - Caterham, London Victoria - Bognor Regis, London Victoria - Portsmouth Harbour · 8m · $3 · every ~9 min
Bus407, N68 · 19m · $3 · every ~21 min
60 · 20m · $3 · every ~24 min
439 · 22m · $3 · every ~6 min
289 · 47m · $3 · every ~20 min
Purley train station facilities and services
Purley has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Purley.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Purley. ATMs are available at Purley.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Purley.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Purley: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Purley: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Purley: 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. Assistance Meeting Point is on platform 6 above the waiting room, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Southern 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.
Which Bedford station do trains from Croydon arrive at?
Trains from Croydon 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.
Train stations for Croydon to Bedford
Check train stations information for Croydon and Bedford, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Croydon that goes to Bedford is East Croydon, which connects to Bedford.
Most popular train connections from Croydon
More options for your journey from Croydon to Bedford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bedford and Croydon
Most popular train connections to Bedford
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