- Must visit
North Hertfordshire Museum
Local museum covering Hitchin's archaeology, social history and market town life, with family-friendly displays in the centre.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bristol to Hitchin among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £39 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 55m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £39, while a train costs an average of £141.
Distance: 170 km
| Coach | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£39 Average Price Cheapest | £141 Average Price | £33 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 0m Average total duration 4h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 55m Average total duration Fastest 2h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Bristol to Hitchin:
A coach is £102 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bristol to Hitchin costing on average £141.
Other travel options to Hitchin take longer:
Coach takes on average 4h 30m.
Tickets start at around £39 compared to roughly £33 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-5.79. The journey takes 4h 30m versus 2h 36m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Compare coach 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.
Buses from Bristol to Hitchin run on average 10 times per day, taking around 4h 30m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £39 if you book in advance.
The earliest coach runs at 03:20, the last at 21:15. The fastest coach covers the 170 km distance in 3h 53m.
Distance 170 km |
Average bus duration 4h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price £39 |
Buses per day 10 |
Fastest bus 3h 53m |
First bus 3:20 |
Last bus 21:15 |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 14 days |
Discover the best of Hitchin — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Hitchin trip today.
Local museum covering Hitchin's archaeology, social history and market town life, with family-friendly displays in the centre.
Community art space and gallery in the old town, presenting changing exhibitions and a strong focus on local artists.
Contemporary gallery in nearby Letchworth showing modern and regional art in a calm setting suitable for a short cultural visit.
Traditional market-centre street and square area with independent shops, historic buildings and a lively town atmosphere.
Linear green park with paths, open grass and play areas, popular for walks and easy access from the town centre.
Large public common with mature trees, sports space and room to stroll, giving a relaxed local contrast to the old town.
A traditional Hertfordshire soup made with cucumbers, herbs and stock, linked to the county’s historic market gardens and often served warm or chilled.
Classic English sausages in Yorkshire pudding batter, a familiar pub staple in Hertfordshire and a reliable local comfort dish.
Roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes and gravy is a classic Sunday meal widely eaten in Hitchin pubs and homes.
Popular Turkish and Mediterranean restaurant serving grilled meats, meze and warm hospitality in a lively dining room.
Smart restaurant in Hitchin centre serving modern British dishes and seasonal tasting menus in a relaxed, polished setting.
Well-known Hitchin café and brunch spot for hearty breakfasts, coffee and homemade cakes in a busy, friendly setting.
Moderate for southern England. Hotels and dining cost more than in smaller UK towns, but local buses and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafés: rounding up is optional. Taxis: round up or add about 10% for good service.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bristol to Hitchin by coach. 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 coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Hitchin, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Bristol to Hitchin buses use the Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) to Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney) station pair. Use this guide to compare Bristol and Hitchin bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
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