- Must visit
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
Major city museum with natural history, archaeology, art, and local collections in a grand building. A top all-round introduction to Bristol.
Cheapest price
$34
Average price
$97
Fastest journey
3 h 4 m
Average duration
3 h 5 m
Trains per day
27
Distance
227 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Bristol is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Bristol will cost around $97 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $34.
Of the 27 trains that leave Manchester for Bristol on Tue, Aug 25, 10 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 25 the direct trains cover the 227 km distance in an average of 3 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 4 m .
On Tue, Aug 25 the slowest trains will take 3 h 6 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.
G01144
W29866
W29871
W29877
W29882
G01144
G01138
W29871
G01005 · G01140
W29882Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Bristol among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $11. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 13m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $11, and a train costs an average of $23.
Distance: 141 miles (227 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$59 Average price | $20 Average price Cheapest | $75 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 43m Average total duration Fastest 3h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 42m Average total duration 4h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 17m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Bristol:
A bus is $26 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Bristol costing on average $45.
Other travel options to Bristol take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 11m.
The journey is about 4m faster (3h 13m by train vs 3h 17m by car) and roughly $31 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($45 vs $76). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Bristol trains for today, Monday, August 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G01144 | On time 9:03 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h04 | 12:07 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01009 · W29862 | On time 9:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h07 | 12:32 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 transfer | |
G38873+ G15012 | On time 9:30 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h47 | 1:17 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 transfer | |
W29866 | On time 10:03 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h18 | 1:21 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01013 · W29868 | On time 10:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h07 | 1:32 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 transfer | |
W29871 | On time 11:03 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h05 | 2:08 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01018 · W29873 | On time 11:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h08 | 2:33 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 transfer | |
W29877 | On time 12:03 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h10 | 3:13 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01022 · G01148 | On time 12:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h08 | 3:33 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 transfer | |
W29882 | On time 1:03 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h06 | 4:09 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01024 · W29884 | On time 1:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h06 | 4:31 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 transfer | |
G38880+ G15019 | On time 1:30 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h45 | 5:15 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 transfer | |
G01150 | On time 2:03 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h06 | 5:09 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01027 · G01153 | On time 2:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h06 | 5:31 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 transfer | |
W29895 | On time 3:03 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h06 | 6:09 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01032 · G01154 | On time 3:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h12 | 6:37 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 transfer | |
G01159 | On time 4:03 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h10 | 7:13 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01035 · G01161_G66477 | On time 4:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h20 | 7:45 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 transfer | |
W29908 | On time 5:03 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h06 | 8:09 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, August 25 | |||||
G01138 | 8:03 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h04 | 11:07 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01005 · G01140 | 8:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h06 | 11:31 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Manchester to Bristol run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 but you can travel from only $11 by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:48, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 141 miles (227 km) distance in 3h 1m.
Distance 141 miles (227 km) |
Average train duration 3h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $22 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 3h 1m |
First train 4:48 AM |
Last train 11:36 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
Discover the best of Bristol — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bristol trip today.
Major city museum with natural history, archaeology, art, and local collections in a grand building. A top all-round introduction to Bristol.
Historic passenger ship designed by Brunel. Explore decks, cabins, and dockside museum displays on one of Bristol’s most famous heritage attractions.
Purpose-built city history museum beside the floating harbour. It tells Bristol’s story through people, trade, protest, and everyday life.
Historic waterfront district with museums, boats, walks, and lively public spaces. Ideal for first-time visitors wanting Bristol’s signature atmosphere.
Elegant Georgian neighborhood of terraces, crescents, and village-like streets. A classic base for architecture, walks, and access to the bridge.
Panoramic viewpoint above the Avon Gorge near the suspension bridge. One of Bristol’s best free spots for dramatic landscapes and sunset photos.
A split-top white roll filled with roast beef, onions and gravy. A Bristol classic tied to the city’s old market and dockside workers.
Bristol’s own blue cheese, made in Somerset and long associated with the city. Rich, creamy and pungent, it reflects the region’s historic cheese trade.
Dry, still or sparkling cider made from West Country apples. Bristol’s pubs and cider houses make it a defining local drink with deep regional roots.
Historic harbourside restaurant in a converted shipping container. Celebrated for local seafood, oysters and relaxed waterside dining.
Michelin-starred fine dining known for modern British tasting menus, polished service and an intimate, special-occasion atmosphere.
Beloved casual eatery serving mezze and Middle Eastern plates. Lively, affordable and one of Bristol’s longest-established independent favourites.
Moderate for UK city breaks. Hotels and dining are cheaper than London, but central stays, attractions, and transport can still add up for tourists.
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add 10%. Cafes: tipping is optional, small change appreciated.
Official public transport app
Bristol Temple Meads -> Bristol City Centre
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Bristol 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 Bristol, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Manchester to Bristol trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Bristol Temple Meads station pair, with some services arriving at Bristol, Airport. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Bristol train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Manchester Piccadilly has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Burger King, Caffè Nero, Carluccio’s, Hotel Chocolat, Starbucks, The Pasty Shop, Costa Coffee, Pret a Manger, Upper Crust, McDonald's, & more
Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi. ATMs are there are ATM machines on the main concourse, Platform 10 and on the mezzanine level.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30, Sun: 07:00 - 22:30. Information desks are located near the Fairfield Street entrance on the mezzanine level.
Luggage storage is operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Piccadilly: There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly, Premier Inn Manchester City, Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly.
Manchester Airport is 13 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
Manchester Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Airport.
Wi-Fi is available at Manchester Airport. ATMs are available at Manchester Airport.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Airport. Information desks are information available from staff: ,Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 107 2149, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Available at Manchester Airport: Parking, WC.
Available at Manchester Airport: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Airport: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: re Step free access is provided from the Ground Transport Interchange to all platforms via lifts or ramps. This station is staffed for all services. This station is Category A. Station staff can provide assistance from Meeting Point 1 (adjacent to the Station Booking Office) and throughout the railway station, and with boarding and alighting the train. Customers requiring assistance should make themselves known to station staff no less than 20 minutes prior to the departure time of their train. Customers requiring assistance to access other services or to connect with terminals should request this from their airline or Manchester Airport Group. Assistance can be requested in advance by contacting the TransPennine Express Assisted Travel Team on 0800 107 2149 (18001 prefix for TextRelay). Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible public telephones: In the station cafe on platforms 2 and 3, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Manchester Victoria has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Victoria.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Victoria.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Manchester Victoria: Parking, WC.
Available at Manchester Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Victoria: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station, Scooter Friendly Station - Step free access around the whole station via use of lifts between platforms 3-6, connection with Manchester Metrolink using ramps, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards Located near the ticket office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: As per ticket office opening hours, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Bristol Temple Meads 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, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: The Pasty Shop, Starbucks, Upper Crust, Pumpkin Café, Hart's Bakery
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located near Platform 3.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:30 - 21:30, Sun: 06:45 - 21:30. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol Temple Meads: Wheelchair access, elevators, escalators. .
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Bristol City Center, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bristol City Center, Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City Center.
Bristol, Airport is 11 km from Bristol city centre. Public transport options include:
Bristol, Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Dexters, Brunel Bar & Kitchen
Free. ATMs are available in the airport terminal.
Ticket office support is available at Bristol, Airport. Information desks are located in the main terminal.
Luggage storage is available at Bristol, Airport. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Bristol, Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bristol, Airport: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol, Airport: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hampton by Hilton Bristol Airport, Holiday Inn Bristol Airport, Winford Manor Hotel.
Montpelier is 1 km from Bristol city centre. Public transport options include:
Montpelier has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Montpelier.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Montpelier: Parking.
Available at Montpelier: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Montpelier: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to the platform, Accessible taxis: No, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need