- 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
Journey information
Overview: Train from Swanley to Bedford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Swanley to Bedford run on average 18 times per day, taking around 1h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £17 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 01:15, the last at 19:18. The fastest train covers the 93 km distance in 1h 32m.
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
Distance 93 km |
Average train duration 1h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price £17 |
Trains per day 18 |
Fastest train 1h 32m |
First train 1:15 |
Last train 19:18 |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Why should you book Swanley to Bedford trains with Omio?
Thameslink as well as Southeastern offer trains services from Swanley to Bedford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Swanley to Bedford.
Why book with Omio vs Thameslink?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Thameslink, but also compare tickets for the likes of Southeastern to find the best option for your trip from Swanley 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Southeastern to find the best option for your trip from Swanley to Bedford.
Train companies: Thameslink, Southeastern from Swanley to Bedford trainsThameslink, Southeastern trains will get you between Swanley and Bedford from £17. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Thameslink
About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Thameslink Duration
1h 37m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
£17
Thameslink frequency
12 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Family area
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
1h 32m
Cheapest Southeastern Price
£18
Southeastern frequency
6 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
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 22 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 9 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: Swanley to Bedford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Swanley 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 Swanley to Bedford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £17, while the average price tends to be around £17.
The train journey from Swanley to Bedford covers a distance of 93 km and takes approximately 1h 32m. Trains run 18 per day.
The train distance from Swanley to Bedford is 93 km.
The first train from Swanley to Bedford leaves at 1:15.
The last train from Swanley to Bedford departs at 19:18.
Trains from Swanley to Bedford run approximately 18 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Swanley to Bedford.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Swanley to Bedford.
There is no night train service from Swanley to Bedford.
The train station in Swanley that goes to Bedford is Swanley station (SAY), and it arrives at Bedford station (BDM).
Booking trains from Swanley to Bedford 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 Swanley to Bedford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Swanley and Bedford
Most Swanley to Bedford trains use the Swanley to Bedford station pair. Use this guide to compare Swanley and Bedford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Swanley
Arrival train stations in Bedford
Which Swanley station do trains to Bedford leave from?
Trains from Swanley to Bedford leave from Swanley. The station is 1 km from Swanley city centre at Swanley BR8 8JD, UK.
SwanleySwanley BR8 8JD, UK+44 345 322 7021
City-centre transport
Getting to Swanley from Swanley city centre
BusD29, D30, 429, 477 · 6m · every ~5 min
Swanley train station facilities and services
Swanley has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Swanley.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Swanley.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Swanley: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Swanley: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Swanley.
Which Bedford station do trains from Swanley arrive at?
Trains from Swanley to Bedford arrive at Bedford. Bedford is 1 km from Bedford city centre.
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.
Most popular train connections from Swanley
More options for your journey from Swanley to Bedford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bedford and Swanley
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.
