- Recommended
The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge
Engaging Roman museum built around the remains of a town house. See mosaics, artefacts and displays that bring Roman Canterbury to life.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Bedford to Canterbury
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 02 Nov
- Cheapest price on 02 Nov
- £67
- Average ticket price on 02 Nov
- £77
- Fastest journey on 02 Nov
- 1 h 53 m
- Average journey duration on 02 Nov
- 1 h 53 m
- Trains on 02 Nov
- 21
- Distance
- 143 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bedford to Canterbury is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bedford to Canterbury will cost around £77 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £67.
Fast trains
To travel from Bedford to Canterbury you need to make at least one change.
6:40 1h54 Bedford 8:34 Canterbury £67 1 One-way 1 change7:40 1h54 Bedford 9:34 Canterbury £67 1 One-way 1 change8:39 1h55 Bedford 10:34 Canterbury £67 1 One-way 1 change9:41 1h53 Bedford 11:34 Canterbury £67 1 One-way 1 change10:40 1h54 Bedford 12:34 Canterbury £67 1 One-way 1 change
9:41 1h53 Bedford 11:34 Canterbury £67 1 One-way 1 change14:41 1h53 Bedford 16:34 Canterbury £67 1 One-way 1 change15:41 1h53 Bedford 17:34 Canterbury £67 1 One-way 1 change6:40 1h54 Bedford 8:34 Canterbury £67 1 One-way 1 change7:40 1h54 Bedford 9:34 Canterbury £67 1 One-way 1 change
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bedford to Canterbury
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bedford to Canterbury run on average 2 times per day, taking around 2h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £60 but you can travel from only £32 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 23:04. The fastest train covers the 143 km distance in 2h 22m.
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
Coach from £32
Distance 143 km |
Average train duration 2h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price £60 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 2h 22m |
First train 5:07 |
Last train 23:04 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Coach from £32
Frequently asked questions about your Bedford to Canterbury trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Bedford to Canterbury.
The cost of a train ticket from Bedford to Canterbury can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £60, while the average price tends to be around £64.
The train journey from Bedford to Canterbury covers a distance of 143 km and takes approximately 2h 22m. Trains run 2 per day.
The train distance from Bedford to Canterbury is 143 km.
The first train from Bedford to Canterbury leaves at 5:07.
The last train from Bedford to Canterbury departs at 23:04.
Trains from Bedford to Canterbury run approximately 2 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Bedford to Canterbury.
Live departures
Bedford to Canterbury train times
The table below shows live departures for Bedford to Canterbury trains for today, Sunday 1 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 11:29 Bedford | 2h33 | 14:02 Canterbury | 0 changesdirect | |
| Monday 2 November | |||||
 | 5:16 Bedford | 2h23 | 7:39 Canterbury | 1 change | |
| 6:33 Bedford | 2h49 | 9:22 Canterbury | 1 change | |
| 6:40 Bedford | 1h54 | 8:34 Canterbury | 1 change | |
| 7:16 Bedford | 3h04 | 10:20 Canterbury | 1 change | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Bedford to Canterbury trains with Omio?
Southeastern operates all trains services from Bedford to Canterbury.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bedford to Canterbury.
Why book with Omio vs Southeastern?
- 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.
Train companies: Southeastern from Bedford to Canterbury trainsSoutheastern trains will get you between Bedford and Canterbury from £32. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Southeastern
About
Southeastern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to Kent, Sussex, Surrey and parts of East Anglia. It runs services from early morning until late at night, seven days a week. Southeastern has a range of train types, including high-speed Javelin trains, commuter-friendly Metro services, and the classic InterCity services. Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southeastern are London to Kent, London to Eastbourne, and London to Hastings.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Southeastern Duration
2h 22m
Cheapest Southeastern Price
£60
Southeastern frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on most services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and ramps for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Family area
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Bedford and Canterbury
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Bedford to Canterbury.
There is no night train service from Bedford to Canterbury.
Complete guide to Canterbury
Things to do in Canterbury
Discover the best of Canterbury — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Canterbury trip today.
- Recommended
Canterbury Roman Museum
Interactive museum on the site of Roman Canterbury, with preserved pavement mosaics, finds and family-friendly interpretation underground.
- Recommended
The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge
Local museum and gallery with art, ceramics, natural history and changing displays. Good for a broad introduction to the city and region.
- Recommended
The King's Mile
Historic pedestrian street lined with timber-framed buildings, shops and cafés. A classic place to experience Canterbury’s medieval townscape.
- Recommended
Westgate Gardens
A landscaped public garden beside the old city walls. Popular for riverside walks, flower displays and a relaxing break near the centre.
Dane John Gardens
A peaceful green beside the River Stour and cathedral precinct. Ideal for a short scenic walk, picnic or photographs of the city’s historic core.
- Vegetarian
Kentish Huffkin
Kentish Huffkin is a traditional Kent bread roll, often served filled with ham, cheese or fruit. It is a long-standing local bakery staple across East Kent.
- Vegetarian
Canterbury Tart
Canterbury Tart is a local jam tart linked with the city, typically made with shortcrust pastry and apple or berry jam. It is a classic Kent teatime bake.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Kentish Cobnuts
Kentish Cobnuts are cultivated hazelnuts from Kent, prized for their sweet flavour and strong county identity. They are eaten fresh, roasted or in desserts.
The Corner House
Popular city-centre bistro serving modern British dishes in a relaxed, stylish setting. Well regarded for brunch, lunch and seasonal dinners.
Chapman's Seafood Bar & Brasserie
Elegant restaurant focused on seafood and modern British cooking. A refined but welcoming choice for a special meal near the city centre.
The Parrot
Historic pub with traditional interiors, local ales and hearty British food. A good place to try Kentish beer in a characterful setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England: hotels and dining are pricier than smaller UK towns, but local buses and casual meals stay manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafes: rounding up is enough. Taxis: round up or add about 10% for good service.
Stagecoach Bus App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3
- Day pass
- £4.90
To the city centre
Canterbury West -> Canterbury Bus Station, Canterbury
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Stagecoach says Canterbury single bus fares are capped at £3, and DayRider tickets are sold in the Stagecoach Bus App.
- Canterbury City Council says Park and Ride tickets can be bought on board. Contactless card payment is commonly available on Stagecoach buses, but check when boarding.
Plan your visit to Canterbury
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Canterbury.
The train journey from Bedford to Canterbury offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, showcasing the picturesque English countryside. Passengers can enjoy views of rolling hills, quaint villages, and lush fields as the train travels through the heart of England.
FAQs: Bedford to Canterbury train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bedford to Canterbury 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 Canterbury, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Booking trains from Bedford to Canterbury in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Bedford to Canterbury.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bedford and Canterbury
Most Bedford to Canterbury trains use the Bedford St Johns to Canterbury West station pair, with some services arriving at Canterbury East. Use this guide to compare Bedford and Canterbury train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bedford
Arrival train stations in Canterbury
Which Bedford station do trains to Canterbury leave from?
Trains from Bedford to Canterbury leave from Bedford St Johns. The station is 1 km from Bedford city centre at Bedford St Johns station, Melbourne Street, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK42 9AN.
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.
Which Canterbury station do trains from Bedford arrive at?
Trains from Bedford to Canterbury most often arrive at Canterbury West. Some services arrive at Canterbury East, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Canterbury arrival station.
Canterbury WestCanterbury West station, Station Road West, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 8AN+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury West from Canterbury city centre
Bus21, 400, 401, Uni1, Uni2 · 14m · £3 · every ~22 min
Canterbury West train station facilities and services
Canterbury West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Canterbury West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Canterbury West. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Canterbury West: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Canterbury West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: two within concourse, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Canterbury EastCanterbury East station, Station Road East, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2RB+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury East from Canterbury city centre
Bus649 · 9m
Canterbury East train station facilities and services
Canterbury East has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Canterbury East.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Canterbury East.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Canterbury East. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Canterbury East: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Canterbury East: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury East: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The Ticket Vending Machines's can only be accessed when the station building is open as they are in the booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Train stations for Bedford to Canterbury
Check train stations information for Bedford and Canterbury, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Bedford that goes to Canterbury is Bedford St Johns, and it arrives at Canterbury West.
Most popular train connections from Bedford
More options for your journey from Bedford to Canterbury
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Canterbury and Bedford
Most popular train connections to Canterbury
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
