Croydon to Bedford train with Thameslink

Sun, Jun 21
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Thameslink
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Thameslink
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare train for Croydon to Bedford

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Croydon to Bedford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 19m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $28, and a train costs an average of $28.

Distance: 54 miles (87 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Driving

$44

Average price

Cheapest

$23

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 49m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 16m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Thameslink

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Croydon to Bedford is a train with an average price of $44 (€36).
The fastest way to travel from Croydon to Bedford is by train with an average journey time of 1h 19m.
Yes, you can take a train between Croydon and Bedford.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Croydon to Bedford 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 57m sooner (1h 19m by train vs 2h 16m by car). Tickets start at around $44 (€36) compared to roughly $23 (€19) 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 Thameslink.

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.

Compare prices and tickets Croydon to Bedford 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.

Sun
Jun 21
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Jun 22
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Jun 23
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Jun 25
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Jun 26
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Jun 27

Why should you book Croydon to Bedford trains with Omio?

Thameslink operates all 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?

  • 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Croydon to Bedford

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Croydon to Bedford run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $28 (€23) if you book in advance.

There are 5 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 17m.

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 19m
Cheapest ticket price
$28 (€23)
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
5
Fastest train
1h 17m
First train
12:14 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
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

Train companies: Thameslink from Croydon to Bedford trainsThameslink trains will get you between Croydon and Bedford from $28 (€23). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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 Duration
1h 33m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€23)
Thameslink frequency
51 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
Family area

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Croydon to Bedford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $28 (€23), while the average price is around $44 (€36).
The train from Croydon to Bedford takes 1h 17m and runs 6 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.
There is no high speed train available from Croydon to Bedford.
Yes, there is a direct train from Croydon to Bedford. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Thameslink.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Croydon to Bedford.
The train station in Croydon that goes to Bedford is East Croydon (ECR), which connects to Bedford station (BDM).
The cheapest way to get from Croydon to Bedford is by train, with a cost of around $28 (€23).
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.
Yes, a day trip from Croydon to Bedford is feasible. The journey takes 1h 17m and the distance is 54 miles (87 km). Trains run frequently, with 5 trips per day.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Croydon to Bedford.
Since neither Croydon 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.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Croydon to Bedford 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 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 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 1LFWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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 · $2 · 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 2APWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
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 · $2 · every ~9 min
Bus407, N68 · 19m · $2 · every ~21 min
60 · 20m · $2 · every ~24 min
439 · 22m · $2 · every ~6 min
289 · 47m · $2 · 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.

West CroydonWest Croydon station, London Road, Croydon, Greater London, CR0 2TAWifiShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to West Croydon from Croydon city centre

Bus289 · 4m · $2 · every ~20 min
450 · 5m · $2 · every ~22 min
157 · 7m · $2 · every ~20 min

West Croydon train station facilities and services

West Croydon has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at West Croydon.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at West Croydon.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at West Croydon.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at West Croydon: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at West Croydon: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at West Croydon: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: B2 station category. Step free access available for platform 1 and 3 using the London Road car park entrance . This side gate is kept locked but has help buttons to request use. Step-free access via separate entrance to platform 4 (to Sutton), Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

More options for your journey from Croydon to Bedford

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