- 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 Oxford to Bedford
Showing times and prices for Aug 06
Cheapest price
$61
Average price
$61
Fastest journey
2 h 25 m
Average duration
2 h 25 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
69 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Oxford to Bedford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Oxford to Bedford will cost around $61 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $61.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Oxford for Bedford on Thu, Aug 06, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 06 the direct trains cover the 69 km distance in an average of 2 h 25 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 25 m .
On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 2 h 26 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.
10:00 AM2h25Oxford12:25 PMBedford$611One-way0 transfers- 8:59 AM2h26Oxford11:25 AMBedford$611One-way0 transfers
- 11:00 AM2h25Oxford1:25 PMBedford$611One-way0 transfers
- 11:00 AM2h25Oxford1:25 PMBedford$611One-way0 transfers
- 10:00 AM2h25Oxford12:25 PMBedford$611One-way0 transfers
- 8:59 AM2h26Oxford11:25 AMBedford$611One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Oxford to Bedford
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Oxford to Bedford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 8m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $16, and a train costs an average of $32.
Distance: 42 miles (69 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$59 Average price | $17 Average price Cheapest | $20 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 38m Average total duration Fastest 2h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 1m Average total duration 2h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 33m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Oxford to Bedford is a bus with an average price of $17.
This is compared to other travel options from Oxford to Bedford:
A bus is $42 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Oxford to Bedford costing on average $59.
The fastest way to travel from Oxford to Bedford is by train with an average journey time of 2h 8m.
Other travel options to Bedford take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 31m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Oxford and Bedford including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Oxford to Bedford 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 $59 compared to roughly $20 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-38.75. The journey takes 2h 8m versus 1h 33m 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
Oxford to Bedford train times
The table below shows live departures for Oxford to Bedford trains for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
W34851+W45605+ Tube from London Paddington to Farringdon | On time 6:00 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 2h44 | 8:44 AM Bedford station (BDM) | 2 transfers | |
W34851 · W34456+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+ C41862 | On time 6:00 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 2h29 | 8:29 AM Bedford station (BDM) | 3 transfers | |
| W35354+C41863+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International | On time 6:31 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 2h25 | 8:56 AM Bedford station (BDM) | 2 transfers | |
| W34853+W45396+Tube from London Paddington to Farringdon | On time 6:48 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 2h41 | 9:29 AM Bedford station (BDM) | 2 transfers | |
| G15119+C41869+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International | On time 7:30 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 2h25 | 9:55 AM Bedford station (BDM) | 2 transfers | |
| W35357+C41873+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International | On time 7:53 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 2h32 | 10:25 AM Bedford station (BDM) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Oxford to Bedford 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.
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Aug 10
Tue
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Aug 11
Wed
Aug 12
Aug 12
Why should you book Oxford to Bedford trains with Omio?
Thameslink as well as Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Oxford to Bedford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Oxford 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 Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Oxford 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 Thameslink with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Oxford to Bedford.
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 Oxford to Bedford.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Oxford to Bedford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Oxford to Bedford run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $32 but you can travel from only $16 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:10, the last at 23:07. The fastest train covers the 42 miles (69 km) distance in 2h 23m.
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 $16
Distance 42 miles (69 km) |
Average train duration 2h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price $32 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 23m |
First train 12:10 AM |
Last train 11:07 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $16
Train companies: Thameslink, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Oxford to Bedford trainsThameslink, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Oxford and Bedford from $16. 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
2h 41m
Cheapest Price
$59
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 11m
Cheapest Price
$156
Cross Country frequency
14 a day
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 13m
Cheapest Price
$135
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
36 a day
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.
FAQs: Trains from Oxford to Bedford
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Oxford 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.
Train ticket prices from Oxford to Bedford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $32, while the average price is around $59.
The train from Oxford to Bedford takes 2h 23m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Oxford to Bedford leaves at 12:10 AM.
The distance by train from Oxford to Bedford is 42 miles (69 km).
The last train from Oxford to Bedford leaves at 11:07 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Oxford to Bedford.
There is no direct train service currently available from Oxford to Bedford.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Oxford to Bedford.
The train station in Oxford that goes to Bedford is Oxford station (OXF), which connects to Bedford station (BDM).
The cheapest way to get from Oxford to Bedford is by bus, with a cost of around $16.
The train journey from Oxford to Bedford offers a pleasant experience with views of the English countryside, including rolling hills and charming villages, though it is not widely recognized for being particularly scenic.
A day trip from Oxford to Bedford is not feasible due to a travel duration of 2h 23m. However, there are 6 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 42 miles (69 km).
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 Oxford to Bedford.
Since neither Oxford 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Oxford 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 Oxford to Bedford
Most Oxford to Bedford trains use the Oxford to Bedford station pair, with some services arriving at Bedford St Johns. Use this guide to compare Oxford and Bedford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Oxford
Arrival train stations in Bedford
Which Oxford station do trains to Bedford leave from?
Trains from Oxford to Bedford leave from Oxford. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Oxford city centre at Oxford station, Park End Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 1HS.
OxfordOxford station, Park End Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 1HS+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Oxford from Oxford city centre
BusS1, Ns1 · 6m · $1 · every ~12 min
5, 3, 3A, 400, N3, N400 · 9m · $2 · every ~66 min
X1, X15, 600 · 9m · $2 · every ~14 min
X20, 120 · 10m · every ~10 min
Oxford train station facilities and services
Oxford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Oxford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Oxford. ATMs are available at Oxford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Oxford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Oxford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Oxford: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Oxford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to all platforms via lifts and an overbridge to access platform 4. Safety warning - Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Accessible Taxis available at this station Please request staff assistance or call our free help line for, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Situated by the ticket office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Oxford ParkwayOxford Parkway station, Water Eaton Park & Ride, Banbury Road, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX2 8HA
City-centre transport
Getting to Oxford Parkway from Oxford city centre
Oxford Parkway is 5 km from Oxford city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainOxford - London Marylebone, Oxford - High Wycombe, Oxford - Bicester Village, Oxford - Gerrards Cross · 8m · $2 · every ~4 min
BusS4, 2, 2A, N2, S5, Ns5, S7, X4, 800 · 20m · $5 · every ~51 min
700 · 22m · $5 · every ~9 min
Oxford Parkway train station facilities and services
Oxford Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Oxford Parkway.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Oxford Parkway. ATMs are available at Oxford Parkway.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Oxford Parkway. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 03456 005 165, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Oxford Parkway: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Oxford Parkway: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Oxford Parkway: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Access Category A. Step free access to platforms via lifts, Accessible taxis: If you would like us to assist you in booking an accessible taxi for your onward journey please contact 03456 005 165, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Bedford station do trains from Oxford arrive at?
Trains from Oxford 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.
Most popular train connections from Oxford
More options for your journey from Oxford to Bedford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bedford and Oxford
Most popular train connections to Bedford
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