- Must visit
The British Museum
World-class collection spanning ancient civilisations, the Rosetta Stone and global treasures with free permanent galleries.
Cheapest price on 01 Oct
£40
Average ticket price on 01 Oct
£68
Fastest journey on 01 Oct
1 h 49 m
Average journey duration on 01 Oct
1 h 52 m
Trains on 01 Oct
32
Distance
142 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cheltenham to London is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cheltenham to London will cost around £68 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £40.
On Thu 01 Oct, we found 32 trains from Cheltenham to London, including 16 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 142 km distance in an average of 1 h 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 49 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 55 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.
G15055
W35242
W35247
Y41556 · W34530
W35241
G01148+
G15048
W29884+
W35194
G01154+
W35200
W29873+
W35187
G15054The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to London trains for today, Wednesday 30 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G15044+ G01138 | Delayed 10:25 10:29Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2h20 | 12:49 London Paddington (PAD) | 1 change | |
W35227 | On time 11:03 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1h56 | 12:59 London Paddington (PAD) | 0 changesdirect | |
W35182+ G01144 | Delayed 11:25 11:29Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2h16 | 13:45 London Paddington (PAD) | 1 change | |
W35229 | On time 12:03 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1h56 | 13:59 London Paddington (PAD) | 0 changesdirect | |
G15047+ W29866 | Delayed 12:27 12:35Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2h09 | 14:44 London Paddington (PAD) | 1 change | |
W35231 | On time 13:03 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1h56 | 14:59 London Paddington (PAD) | 0 changesdirect | |
W35187+ W29873 | Delayed 13:27 13:52Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1h52 | 15:44 London Paddington (PAD) | 1 change | |
G15054 | On time 14:03 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1h55 | 15:58 London Paddington (PAD) | 0 changesdirect | |
G15048+ G01148 | Delayed 14:27 14:52Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1h49 | 16:41 London Paddington (PAD) | 1 change | |
W35236 | On time 15:03 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1h57 | 17:00 London Paddington (PAD) | 0 changesdirect | |
W35194+ W29884 | Delayed 15:28 15:52Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1h52 | 17:44 London Paddington (PAD) | 1 change | |
W35237 | On time 16:03 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1h56 | 17:59 London Paddington (PAD) | 0 changesdirect | |
W35196+ G01150 | Delayed 16:27 16:31Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2h14 | 18:45 London Paddington (PAD) | 1 change | |
W35239 | On time 17:03 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1h58 | 19:01 London Paddington (PAD) | 0 changesdirect | |
C48918 · G15443 · G14910 | On time 17:25 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2h12 | 19:37 London Paddington (PAD) | 2 changes | |
W35200+ G01154 | Delayed 17:27 17:52Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1h52 | 19:44 London Paddington (PAD) | 1 change | |
W35241 | On time 18:03 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1h56 | 19:59 London Paddington (PAD) | 0 changesdirect | |
W35242 | On time 19:02 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1h59 | 21:01 London Paddington (PAD) | 0 changesdirect | |
G15055 | On time 20:02 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2h05 | 22:07 London Paddington (PAD) | 0 changesdirect | |
W35247 | On time 21:02 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2h00 | 23:02 London Paddington (PAD) | 0 changesdirect | |
Y41556 · W34530 | On time 22:16 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2h23 | 0:39 London Paddington (PAD) | 1 change | |
| Thursday 1 October | |||||
C48130 · W34456+ AW971400 | 4:40 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2h17 | 6:57 London Paddington (PAD) | 2 changes | |
W35217 | 5:53 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2h04 | 7:57 London Paddington (PAD) | 0 changesdirect | |
G15469 · W35166 | 6:14 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2h37 | 8:51 London Paddington (PAD) | 1 change | |
G15053 | 6:48 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2h07 | 8:55 London Paddington (PAD) | 0 changesdirect | |
W35169+ G01130 | 7:29 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2h15 | 9:44 London Paddington (PAD) | 1 change | |
W35221 | 7:55 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2h04 | 9:59 London Paddington (PAD) | 0 changesdirect | |
G15041+ G01131 | 8:01 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2h13 | 10:14 London Paddington (PAD) | 1 change | |
G15042+ W29847 | 8:29 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2h07 | 10:36 London Paddington (PAD) | 1 change | |
W35223 | 9:03 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1h56 | 10:59 London Paddington (PAD) | 0 changesdirect | |
G15043+ W29851 | 9:32 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2h14 | 11:46 London Paddington (PAD) | 1 change | |
W35225 | 10:03 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1h56 | 11:59 London Paddington (PAD) | 0 changesdirect | |
G15044+ G01138 | 10:29 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2h20 | 12:49 London Paddington (PAD) | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train and coach 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.
Trains from Cheltenham to London run on average 23 times per day, taking around 1h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £24 but you can travel from only £5 by coach.
There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:17, the last at 22:33. The fastest train covers the 142 km distance in 1h 42m.
Distance 142 km |
Average train duration 1h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price £24 |
Trains per day 23 |
Direct trains 11 |
Fastest train 1h 42m |
First train 3:17 |
Last train 22:33 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 49 days |
Discover the best of London — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect London trip today.
World-class collection spanning ancient civilisations, the Rosetta Stone and global treasures with free permanent galleries.
National collection of European painting from Van Gogh to Turner in a landmark Trafalgar Square setting.
Vast museum of art, design and performance, loved for fashion, sculpture and major temporary exhibitions.
Lively pedestrian riverside route linking major sights, street performers, markets and excellent views across the Thames.
West End square famous for lions, fountains and events, surrounded by galleries and central to many first-time visits.
Grand royal park with Serpentine lake, broad paths and easy walks to Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace.
A classic breakfast of sausages, bacon, eggs, beans, mushrooms and toast. A staple of British cafés and weekend dining across London.
Pale ale battered fish with chips, usually served with mushy peas and tartare sauce. A long-standing favourite in London pubs and chippies.
Slow-cooked beef in rich gravy topped with mashed potato. This hearty pie is closely associated with East London working-class food culture.
Luxury hotel venue renowned for formal afternoon tea with fine pastries, sandwiches and impeccable service in grand surroundings.
Refined Indian restaurant with a Michelin star, celebrated for polished cooking and a landmark role in London’s modern dining scene.
Historic dining room famed for traditional British pies, roast meats and classic puddings in elegant, old-school surroundings.
Very costly by European standards; hotels, dining and transport are notably pricier than in most UK and EU city breaks.
Restaurants often add a 12.5% service charge; if not, tip 10-12%. Taxis: round up or 10%. Cafés: no obligation, small change optional.
Official public transport app
London Waterloo -> London Charing Cross, London
There are two sensible ways to travel between Cheltenham and London by train. The first is a direct stopping service operated by First Great Western, the second is a fast service with one change at Swindon aboard London Midland. Each route operates hourly and the journey time is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes for both (depending on connections). On weekday mornings, the first train departs Cheltenham Spa just before 06.00 a.m. arriving in London Paddington after just 08.00. Last trains are more complicated and will often involve waiting for connecting trains. One should anticipate departing Cheltenham before 09.00 p.m. if hoping to reach London on the same day. Weekend services are fewer but use the same routes and franchises. Advance tickets are available on trains from Cheltenham to London at a favourable price.
Cheltenham Spa station is just outside the town centre with good local transport links. It is within a short bus or taxi ride from the main attractions of town including the racecourse, ladies college and the famous literary festival.
When arriving at Paddington, day trippers or business travellers can quickly and easily transfer onto the District, Circle or Hammersmith & City lines of the London underground to reach any final destination in London. As a guide, it will take a further 25 minutes from the station to reach Theatre Land, and an hour for the Olympic Park in Stratford. There are also frequent buses serving Oxford Street, other London rail termini and the West End of London with its theatres, restaurants and shopping opportunities. These services operate throughout the night, albeit with reduced frequency. A black taxi rank is also situated above Paddington's platform 12 with lift and escalator access.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cheltenham to London 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 London, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cheltenham to London trains use the Cheltenham Spa to London Paddington station pair, with some services arriving at Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3. Use this guide to compare Cheltenham and London train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Cheltenham Spa is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre. Public transport options include:
Cheltenham Spa has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: The Railway Inn, The Coconut Tree
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham Spa. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Luggage storage is available at Cheltenham Spa. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham Spa: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Queens Hotel Cheltenham, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cheltenham, Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cheltenham.
London Paddington has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, 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 options include: Wasabi, The Beer House, Barburrito, Upper Crust, The Mad Bishop & Bear (Fullers), The Pasty Shop, Burger King, Pret a Manger, The Savanna, Soboro Bakery, & more
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located next to the ticket office.
The ticket office is open 24/7. Information desks are located near Platform 1.
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located near the taxi stand beside Platform 11. . Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at London Paddington: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at London Paddington: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at London Paddington: Wheelchair access, escalators, elevators.
Nearby hotels include Hilton London Paddington, Mercure London Paddington Hotel, The Pilgrm.
Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 is 23 km from London city centre. Public transport options include:
Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3. ATMs are available at Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3.
Ticket office support is available at Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3: Parking, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Level access to platforms, lifts to airport facilities. Ticket Office is step free. Wheelchair users can board trains with ease as the platforms are level with the trains, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Heathrow Terminal 5 is 25 km from London city centre. Public transport options include:
Heathrow Terminal 5 has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lounge, Lost and Found Office and Ticket Office.
Ticket office support is available at Heathrow Terminal 5.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Heathrow Terminal 5: Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Heathrow Terminal 5: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Level access to platforms, lifts to airport facilities. Ticket Office is step free. Wheelchair users can board trains with ease as the platforms are level with the trains, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
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