Luton to Bedford train with East Midlands Railway

Fri, Jun 19
+ Add return
East Midlands Railway
Thameslink
east_midlands_trains
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
East Midlands Railway
Thameslink
east_midlands_trains
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Luton to Bedford

Showing times and prices for Jun 19

Cheapest price

$16

Average price

$16

Fastest journey

15 m

Average duration

22 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

29 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Luton to Bedford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Luton to Bedford will cost around $16 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $16.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Luton for Bedford on Fri, Jun 19, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jun 19 the direct trains cover the 29 km distance in an average of 22 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 15 m .

On Fri, Jun 19 the slowest trains will take 27 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.

  • ThameslinkW45438
    5:58 PM0h26
    Luton station (LUT)
    6:24 PMBedford station (BDM)
    $161One-way
    0 transfers
  • East Midlands RailwayC41916
    5:12 PM0h15
    Luton station (LUT)
    5:27 PMBedford station (BDM)
    $161One-way
    0 transfers
  • ThameslinkW45419
    5:28 PM0h26
    Luton station (LUT)
    5:54 PMBedford station (BDM)
    $161One-way
    0 transfers
  • ThameslinkW32963
    5:42 PM0h27
    Luton station (LUT)
    6:09 PMBedford station (BDM)
    $161One-way
    0 transfers
  • ThameslinkW32959
    5:12 PM0h27
    Luton station (LUT)
    5:39 PMBedford station (BDM)
    $161One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Luton to Bedford

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Luton to Bedford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 20m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $15, and a train costs an average of $8.

Distance: 18 miles (29 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$15

Average price

$15

Average price

Cheapest

$8

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

50m

Average total duration

Fastest

20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 15m

Average total duration

45m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

40m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Luton to Bedford is a bus with an average price of $15 (€12).

This is compared to other travel options from Luton to Bedford:

A bus is $0.32 (€0.26) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Luton to Bedford costing on average $15 (€12).

The fastest way to travel from Luton to Bedford is by train with an average journey time of 20m.

Other travel options to Bedford take longer:

Bus takes on average 45m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Luton and Bedford including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Luton 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 20m sooner (20m by train vs 40m by car). Tickets start at around $15 (€12) compared to roughly $8 (€6) 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 East Midlands Railway, Thameslink, east_midlands_trains.

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.

Live departures

Luton to Bedford train times

The table below shows live departures for Luton to Bedford trains for today, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
ThameslinkC02767
On time
8:13 AM Luton station (LUT)
0h26
8:39 AM Bedford station (BDM)
0 transfersDirect
East Midlands RailwayC41862
On time
8:14 AM Luton station (LUT)
0h15
8:29 AM Bedford station (BDM)
0 transfersDirect
ThameslinkW45605
On time
8:20 AM Luton station (LUT)
0h24
8:44 AM Bedford station (BDM)
0 transfersDirect
ThameslinkW45395
On time
8:32 AM Luton station (LUT)
0h27
8:59 AM Bedford station (BDM)
0 transfersDirect
East Midlands RailwayC41863
On time
8:41 AM Luton station (LUT)
0h15
8:56 AM Bedford station (BDM)
0 transfersDirect
ThameslinkC02774
On time
8:42 AM Luton station (LUT)
0h27
9:09 AM Bedford station (BDM)
0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Luton 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.

Fri
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25

Why should you book Luton to Bedford trains with Omio?

East Midlands Railway as well as Thameslink or east_midlands_trains offer trains services from Luton to Bedford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Luton to Bedford.

Why book with Omio vs East Midlands Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for East Midlands Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Luton 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.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare East Midlands Railway with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Luton to Bedford.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Luton to Bedford.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Luton to Bedford.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Luton to Bedford

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Luton to Bedford run on average 10 times per day, taking around 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $8 (€7) if you book in advance.

There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 18 miles (29 km) distance in 15m.

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
18 miles (29 km)
Average train duration
20m
Cheapest ticket price
$8 (€7)
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
9
Fastest train
15m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
14 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: East Midlands Railway, Thameslink, east_midlands_trains from Luton to Bedford trainsEast Midlands Railway, Thameslink, east_midlands_trains trains will get you between Luton and Bedford from $8 (€7). 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 Duration
15m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
East Midlands Railway frequency
3 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 Duration
19m
Cheapest Price
$8 (€7)
Thameslink frequency
6 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

east_midlands_trains

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14m
Cheapest Price
$12 (€10)
east_midlands_trains frequency
7 a day

FAQs: Trains from Luton to Bedford

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Luton 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 Luton to Bedford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $8 (€7), while the average price is around $15 (€12).
The train from Luton to Bedford takes 15m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Luton to Bedford is 18 miles (29 km).
The first train from Luton to Bedford leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Luton to Bedford leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Luton to Bedford.
Yes, there is a direct train from Luton to Bedford. This service operates 9 times per day, provided by East Midlands Railway, Thameslink, east_midlands_trains.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Luton to Bedford.
The train station in Luton that goes to Bedford is Luton station (LUT), which connects to Bedford station (BDM).
The cheapest way to get from Luton to Bedford is by train, with a cost of around $8 (€7).
The train journey from Luton to Bedford primarily passes through urban and suburban areas with some views of the English countryside, but it is not typically known for being particularly scenic.
Yes, a day trip from Luton to Bedford is feasible as the journey takes only 15m. The distance is 18 miles (29 km) and there are 9 trains 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 Luton to Bedford.
Since neither Luton 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, Leicester, Wellingborough, Harpenden, Kettering.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Luton 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 Luton to Bedford

Luton
Bedford
The major train station for departures in Luton is Luton. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Luton for your trip from Luton to Bedford.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:45 - 21:45 Saturday 05:45 - 22:00 Sunday 06:45 - 21:45
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Road Car Park
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: YES
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: This is a Category B3 station: Step free access via lift to platform 5 only (some trains to Bedford/ the East Midlands) only. Steps to all other platforms. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office. This station doesn't have tactile surfaces along all platform edges. Please pay attention to where the platform surface changes from smooth to paved or contact us for assistance
  • 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
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Available during staffing hours
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: No
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: There are heated waiting areas on platforms 1 to 4
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Front and rear entrances
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:00 - 00:30 Saturday 06:30 - 00:00 Sunday 07:30 - 00:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: Coffee shops
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: YES
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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 the Ticket Office
  • 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
WC
WC
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: There is a heated waiting area on platforms 2 and 3 and also adjacent to platform 4
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Front of station and Kimpton Road
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:00 - 19:30 Saturday 06:00 - 19:20 Sunday 07:45 - 17:45
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
4 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: YES
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: This is a Category B3 station. Step free access to southbound platform 1 and northbound platform 4 (via a separate entrance). No step free access to northbound platform 2 or southbound platform 3. Most services call at platforms 1 and 2. The assistance meeting point is Platform 4 next to ticket office
  • 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
WC
WC
  • National key toilets: No
  • Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Platform 4
  • Storage CCTV: Yes

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