- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Bristol
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
kr444
Average ticket price on Sep 18
kr669
Fastest journey on Sep 18
3 h 50 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
3 h 58 m
Trains on Sep 18
5
Distance
257 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Bristol is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Bristol will cost around kr669 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr444.
Fast trains
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 5 trains from Preston to Bristol, including 5 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 257 km distance in an average of 3 h 58 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 50 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 4 h 16 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.
8:17 AM3h50Preston12:07 PMBristolkr4441One-way0 transfers- 9:19 AM4h02Preston1:21 PMBristolkr5771One-way0 transfers
- 7:17 AM3h50Preston11:07 AMBristolkr7711One-way0 transfers
- 10:18 AM3h50Preston2:08 PMBristolkr7751One-way0 transfers
4:20 PM4h16Preston8:36 PMBristolkr7761One-way0 transfers
- 8:17 AM3h50Preston12:07 PMBristolkr4441One-way0 transfers
- 10:18 AM3h50Preston2:08 PMBristolkr7751One-way0 transfers
- 7:17 AM3h50Preston11:07 AMBristolkr7711One-way0 transfers
- 9:19 AM4h02Preston1:21 PMBristolkr5771One-way0 transfers
- 4:20 PM4h16Preston8:36 PMBristolkr7761One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Preston to Bristol
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Bristol among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of kr276 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 0m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of kr276, while a train costs an average of kr721.
Distance: 159 miles (257 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
kr721 Average price | kr276 Average price Cheapest | kr537 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 0m Average total duration Fastest 3h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 18m Average total duration 5h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 31m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Preston to Bristol is a bus with an average price of kr276.
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Bristol:
A bus is kr444 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Preston to Bristol costing on average kr721.
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Bristol is by train with an average journey time of 3h 30m.
Other travel options to Bristol take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 48m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Bristol including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Bristol 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 1m sooner (3h 30m by train vs 3h 31m by car). Tickets start at around kr721 compared to roughly kr537 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.
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
Preston to Bristol train times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Bristol trains for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:17 AM Preston | 3h50 | 11:07 AM Bristol | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:17 AM Preston | 3h50 | 12:07 PM Bristol | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:19 AM Preston | 4h02 | 1:21 PM Bristol | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:18 AM Preston | 3h50 | 2:08 PM Bristol | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:20 PM Preston | 4h16 | 8:36 PM Bristol | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Bristol 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.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
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Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Why should you book Preston to Bristol trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Caledonian Sleeper and more offer trains services from Preston to Bristol.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Bristol.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Transport for Wales or Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Bristol.
- 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Bristol.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Transport for Wales or Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Bristol.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Bristol.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Bristol
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Bristol run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at kr347 but you can travel from only kr171 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:53, the last at 20:33. The fastest train covers the 159 miles (257 km) distance in 2h 54m.
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 kr171
Distance 159 miles (257 km) |
Average train duration 3h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price kr347 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 54m |
First train 4:53 AM |
Last train 8:33 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 42 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 kr171
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales from Preston to Bristol trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Preston and Bristol from kr171. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
3h 6m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
kr347
Avanti West Coast frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
2h 54m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
kr588
CrossCountry frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Transport for Wales
About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
3h 33m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
kr530
Transport for Wales frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Bristol
Things to do in Bristol
Discover the best of Bristol — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bristol trip today.
- Must visit
SS Great Britain
Historic passenger ship designed by Brunel. Explore decks, cabins, and dockside museum displays on one of Bristol’s most famous heritage attractions.
- Must visit
M Shed
Purpose-built city history museum beside the floating harbour. It tells Bristol’s story through people, trade, protest, and everyday life.
- Must visit
Bristol Harbour
Historic waterfront district with museums, boats, walks, and lively public spaces. Ideal for first-time visitors wanting Bristol’s signature atmosphere.
- Must visit
Clifton
Elegant Georgian neighborhood of terraces, crescents, and village-like streets. A classic base for architecture, walks, and access to the bridge.
- Must visit
Clifton Down
Panoramic viewpoint above the Avon Gorge near the suspension bridge. One of Bristol’s best free spots for dramatic landscapes and sunset photos.
Bristol Beef Sandwich
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.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Bristol Blue Cheese
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.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
West Country Cider
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.
Box-E
Historic harbourside restaurant in a converted shipping container. Celebrated for local seafood, oysters and relaxed waterside dining.
Bulrush
Michelin-starred fine dining known for modern British tasting menus, polished service and an intimate, special-occasion atmosphere.
The Bristolian
Beloved casual eatery serving mezze and Middle Eastern plates. Lively, affordable and one of Bristol’s longest-established independent favourites.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for UK city breaks. Hotels and dining are cheaper than London, but central stays, attractions, and transport can still add up for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual eats.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add 10%. Cafes: tipping is optional, small change appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Bristol Temple Meads -> Bristol City Centre
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless and card payment are accepted on most First Bus services in Bristol. You can also use the First Bus app for mobile tickets.
- Bristol has no tram or metro system. Most visitors use buses, and fares can vary by operator outside First Bus routes.
FAQs: Trains from Preston to Bristol
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston 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.
Train ticket prices from Preston to Bristol can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at kr347, while the average price is around kr721.
The train from Preston to Bristol takes 2h 54m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Preston to Bristol leaves at 4:53 AM.
The distance by train from Preston to Bristol is 159 miles (257 km).
The last train from Preston to Bristol leaves at 8:33 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Preston to Bristol.
There is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Bristol.
Yes, there is a night train from Preston to Bristol.
The train station in Preston that goes to Bristol is Preston station (PRE), which connects to Bristol Temple Meads (BRI).
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Bristol is by bus, with a cost of around kr171.
The train journey from Preston to Bristol offers a mix of urban and countryside views, including glimpses of the scenic Cotswolds and the rolling landscapes of the English countryside, making it a pleasant experience for travelers.
A day trip from Preston to Bristol is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 54m. There are 5 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 159 miles (257 km).
In Bristol, you can visit the Bristol Zoo Gardens for diverse animal exhibits and take a boat tour along the River Avon for unique city views. Explore vibrant street art in the Stokes Croft area and visit the Arnolfini for contemporary arts exhibitions. Enjoy Brandon Hill Park, home to the historic Cabot Tower. Don't miss the Clifton Suspension Bridge for panoramic views of the Avon Gorge and the Bristol Cathedral with its stunning Gothic architecture. Explore the SS Great Britain, a restored passenger steamship and museum, and the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery for diverse collections. St Nicholas Market offers a vibrant experience with food stalls and local crafts.
To fully experience Bristol, including its historic sites, vibrant arts scene, and nearby attractions, plan for a stay of 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Bristol.
Since neither Preston nor Bristol 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 Bristol include Bath, Cardiff, Oxford, Gloucester, Cheltenham.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Bristol 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 Bristol, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and on public transport. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers and counterfeit event tickets. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and buy tickets only from official vendors to avoid these issues. Additionally, travelers should stay aware of their surroundings at night, particularly in less busy areas.
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 Preston to Bristol
Most Preston to Bristol trains use the Preston to Bristol Temple Meads station pair, with some services arriving at Parson Street. Use this guide to compare Preston and Bristol train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Preston
Arrival train stations in Bristol
Which Preston station do trains to Bristol leave from?
Trains from Preston to Bristol leave from Preston. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Preston city centre at Fishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom.
PrestonFishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston from Preston city centre
Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3, 2, 2A, 111, 111C · 13m · kr72 · every ~36 min
Preston train station facilities and services
Preston has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.
Bristol Temple MeadsStation Approach, Bristol, BS1 6QF, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Bristol Temple Meads from Bristol city centre
Bus16 · 7m · kr32 · every ~12 min
X39, 16, 39, 522 · 8m · kr32 · every ~49 min
512 · 14m
9 · 15m · kr32 · every ~22 min
Bristol Temple Meads train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: The Pasty Shop, Starbucks, Upper Crust, Pumpkin Café, Hart's Bakery
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located near Platform 3.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:30 - 21:30, Sun: 06:45 - 21:30. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol Temple Meads: Wheelchair access, elevators, escalators. .
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Bristol City Center, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bristol City Center, Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City Center.
Parson StreetParson Street station, Parson Street, Bedminster, Bristol, City of, BS3 5PU
City-centre transport
Getting to Parson Street from Bristol city centre
Parson Street is 2 km from Bristol city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainBristol Temple Meads - Exeter St Davids, Bristol Temple Meads - Weston-super-Mare, Severn Beach - Weston-super-Mare, Severn Beach - Exeter St Davids, Cardiff Central - Taunton, Cardiff Central - Exeter St Davids, Bristol Temple Meads - Plymouth, Bristol Temple Meads - Taunton, Gloucester - Exeter St Davids, Cardiff Central - Plymouth, Avonmouth - Weston-super-Mare, Cardiff Central - Penzance, Bristol Parkway - Weston-super-Mare, Bristol Temple Meads - Penzance · 9m · kr8 · every ~2 min
Bus75 · 15m · kr32 · every ~27 min
Parson Street train station facilities and services
Parson Street has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Parson Street.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Parson Street: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Parson Street: Bike Parking.
Most popular train connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Bristol
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bristol and Preston
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