- Must visit
The Higgins Bedford
Bedford's main museum covers local history, archaeology and communities. A strong first stop for understanding the town and wider county.
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 Bristol to Bedford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 07 Oct
Cheapest price on 07 Oct
£50
Average ticket price on 07 Oct
£62
Fastest journey on 07 Oct
3 h 24 m
Average journey duration on 07 Oct
3 h 24 m
Trains on 07 Oct
3
Distance
165 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bristol to Bedford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bristol to Bedford will cost around £62 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £50.
Fast trains
On Wed 07 Oct, we found 3 trains from Bristol to Bedford, including 3 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 165 km distance in an average of 3 h 24 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 24 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 25 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.
8:303h24Bristol11:54Bedford£501One-way0 changes- 8:003h25Bristol11:25Bedford£661One-way0 changes
- 7:303h24Bristol10:54Bedford£691One-way0 changes
- 8:303h24Bristol11:54Bedford£501One-way0 changes
- 7:303h24Bristol10:54Bedford£691One-way0 changes
- 8:003h25Bristol11:25Bedford£661One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bristol to Bedford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bristol to Bedford run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £27 but you can travel from only £12 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 02:15, the last at 22:50. The fastest train covers the 165 km distance in 2h 19m.
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 £12
Distance 165 km |
Average train duration 2h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price £27 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 19m |
First train 2:15 |
Last train 22:50 |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 £12
Live departures
Bristol to Bedford train times
The table below shows live departures for Bristol to Bedford trains for tomorrow, Wednesday 7 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:30 Bristol | 3h24 | 10:54 Bedford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:00 Bristol | 3h25 | 11:25 Bedford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:30 Bristol | 3h24 | 11:54 Bedford | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Bristol to Bedford trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as West Midlands Trains or Great Western Railway offer trains services from Bristol to Bedford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bristol to Bedford.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains or Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Bristol 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bristol to Bedford.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains or Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Bristol to Bedford.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bristol to Bedford.
Train companies: Great Western Railway, West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry from Bristol to Bedford trainsGreat Western Railway, West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry trains will get you between Bristol and Bedford from £12. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
2h 19m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£27
Great Western Railway frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
West Midlands Trains
About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average West Midlands Trains Duration
3h 31m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
£62
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel 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 58m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£101
CrossCountry frequency
1 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
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
John Bunyan Museum
Compact museum inside John Bunyan Meeting telling the story of the Bedford writer and preacher. Useful for literary and religious history.
The Eagle Gallery
Small independent gallery showcasing changing contemporary exhibitions. Worth a visit for local creative talent and a quieter art stop in the town centre.
- Must visit
The Embankment
Tree-lined riverside promenade beside the Great Ouse. It is one of Bedford's classic walks, with bridges, memorials and broad views of the water.
- Recommended
Russell Park
Central urban park with lawns, play areas and riverside paths. A practical stop for relaxing between sights and enjoying the water's edge.
- Recommended
Priory Country Park
Spacious park with sports facilities, open grass and access to the river. Popular with locals and useful for a longer walk away from the busiest streets.
Bedford Clanger
A spiced puff pastry turnover filled with curried mutton or beef. Brought by Bedford’s Italian community, it is the town’s best-known speciality.
Sweet Bedford Clanger
The sweet version of the Bedford Clanger, usually filled with jam or apple. It reflects the town’s baking tradition and local lunchbox heritage.
Steak And Kidney Pudding
A rich steamed suet pudding with beef and kidney. A classic English comfort dish long associated with traditional pubs and family cooking in Bedfordshire.
Anatolia
Well-known Turkish restaurant with grilled meats, meze and a lively but polished atmosphere in Bedford town centre.
The River Room
Stylish riverside restaurant and bar serving modern British and European dishes in a relaxed setting by the Great Ouse.
Prego
Established Spanish tapas restaurant known for small plates, sangria and a warm, bustling atmosphere near the centre.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England: stays and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals remain fairly manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included in restaurants; otherwise tip around 10% for good service. Taxi tips are optional, often rounding up. Cafés usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city centre
Bedford Railway Station -> Bedford Bus Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Most local bus singles in England are capped at £3.00 where participating operators apply the national fare cap; check the operator before travel.
- Stagecoach sells Bedfordshire DayRider day tickets on its official app. Contactless payment is commonly available on buses, but check with the operator before boarding.
Best day trips from Bedford by train
The most popular day trips by train from Bedford are London, Cambridge, Brighton, St Albans and Luton. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Bedford on Omio.
Day trip from Bedford to London by train
Why visit London for the day?
London blends royal history with modern city life, known for its museums, theatre and global food scene. Along the Thames, grand landmarks sit beside diverse neighbourhoods shaped by finance, fashion and contemporary culture.
How to get from Bedford to London by train?
There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 73 km distance in 34m.
Day trip from Bedford to Cambridge by train
Why visit Cambridge for the day?
Cambridge is a historic university city on the River Cam, known for its colleges and punting. Its compact centre, museums and green spaces give it an academic yet lively feel.
How to get from Bedford to Cambridge by train?
The earliest train runs at 00:40, the last at 23:53. The fastest train covers the 40 km distance in 1h 24m.
Day trip from Bedford to Brighton by train
Why visit Brighton for the day?
Brighton is a lively seaside city known for its pebble beach, Victorian pier and the Royal Pavilion. Its bohemian lanes, independent shops and strong arts scene give it a relaxed but energetic character.
How to get from Bedford to Brighton by train?
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 147 km distance in 1h 56m.
Day trip from Bedford to St Albans by train
Why visit St Albans for the day?
St Albans is a historic Hertfordshire city known for Roman Verulamium and its prominent cathedral. Its compact centre mixes ancient streets, markets and green spaces with an easy, well-kept feel.
How to get from Bedford to St Albans by train?
There are 25 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 44 km distance in 25m.
Day trip from Bedford to Luton by train
Why visit Luton for the day?
Luton is a large Bedfordshire town known for London Luton Airport and a diverse, practical urban character. Its past in hat making and car manufacturing still shapes the town, alongside parks, museums and a strong multicultural identity.
How to get from Bedford to Luton by train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 29 km distance in 14m.
FAQs: Bristol to Bedford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bristol 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.
The cost of a train ticket from Bristol to Bedford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £27, while the average price tends to be around £81.
The train journey from Bristol to Bedford covers a distance of 165 km and takes approximately 2h 19m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Bristol to Bedford is 165 km.
The first train from Bristol to Bedford leaves at 2:15.
The last train from Bristol to Bedford departs at 22:50.
Trains from Bristol to Bedford run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Bristol to Bedford.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Bristol to Bedford.
There is no night train service from Bristol to Bedford.
The train station in Bristol that goes to Bedford is Bristol Temple Meads (BRI), and it arrives at Bedford station (BDM).
Booking trains from Bristol to Bedford in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Bristol to Bedford offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, showcasing the rolling countryside, quaint villages, and historical sites along the way.
Yes, you can take the train from Bristol to Bedford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bristol and Bedford
Most Bristol to Bedford trains use the Bristol Temple Meads to Bedford station pair, with some services arriving at Bedford St Johns. Use this guide to compare Bristol and Bedford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bristol
Arrival train stations in Bedford
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 · £4 · every ~12 min
X39, 16, 39, 522 · 8m · £4 · every ~49 min
512 · 14m
9 · 15m · £4 · 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.
Which Bedford station do trains from Bristol arrive at?
Trains from Bristol to Bedford most often arrive at Bedford. Some services arrive at Luton DART Parkway, 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 Bristol
More options for your journey from Bristol to Bedford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bedford and Bristol
Most popular train connections to Bedford
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.
