- Must visit
National Science and Media Museum
National museum for film, television and photography, with major galleries and cinema screens. Ideal for interactive displays and visual culture.
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Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Watford to Bradford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Watford to Bradford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £106 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 43m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £106, while a flight costs an average of £363.
Distance: 255 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£106 Average Price Cheapest | £363 Average Price | £49 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 43m Average total duration Fastest 3h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 46m Average total duration 1h 46m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 27m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Watford to Bradford is a train with an average price of £106.
This is compared to other travel options from Watford to Bradford:
A train is £256 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Watford to Bradford costing on average £363.
The fastest way to travel from Watford to Bradford is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 46m.
Other travel options to Bradford take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 13m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Watford and Bradford including taking a coach and train.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 14m sooner (3h 13m by train vs 3h 27m by car). Tickets start at around £106 compared to roughly £49 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Watford to Bradford by coach or train
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.
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Why should you book Watford to Bradford trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as London North Eastern Railway or Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Watford to Bradford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Watford to Bradford.
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 London North Eastern Railway or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Watford to Bradford.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Watford to Bradford.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Watford to Bradford.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Watford to Bradford.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Watford to Bradford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Watford to Bradford run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £56 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:26, the last at 20:34. The fastest train covers the 255 km distance in 2h 52m.
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 255 km |
Average train duration 3h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price £56 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 2h 52m |
First train 0:26 |
Last train 20:34 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Train companies: CrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway, Avanti West Coast from Watford to Bradford trainsCrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Watford and Bradford from £56. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
3h 17m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£140
CrossCountry frequency
2 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
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
2h 52m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£56
London North Eastern Railway frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
3h 25m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£88
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Bradford
Things to do in Bradford
Discover the best of Bradford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bradford trip today.
- Must visit
Hockney Gallery at Salts Mill
Arts centre and gallery in Saltaire showing works by David Hockney and changing exhibitions. Worth visiting for both the art and the riverside setting.
- Recommended
Impressions Gallery
Compact city-centre gallery with changing exhibitions of contemporary art and community projects. A useful stop for Bradford’s current creative scene.
- Must visit
Saltaire
Planned Victorian village of stone terraces, mill buildings and riverside paths. Excellent for architecture, walking and a feel for Bradford’s industrial heritage.
- Recommended
Little Germany
Historic quarter of grand nineteenth-century warehouses and cobbled streets. Best explored on foot for architecture, details and quieter city-centre views.
- Recommended
Centenary Square
Central public square beside City Hall and the museum, used for events and framed by key civic buildings. A practical starting point for sightseeing.
Curry and Chips
A long-standing Bradford takeaway staple: curried lamb or chicken served with chips. It reflects the city’s South Asian heritage and late-night food culture.
Bradford-Style Curry
Slow-cooked meat curry, often lamb or chicken, served with roti or naan. Bradford is famous for Kashmiri and Pakistani styles shaped by its communities.
- Gluten-free
Seekh Kebab
Minced lamb or chicken grilled on skewers in tandoori spices. A classic at Bradford curry houses and a favourite for its smoky flavour.
Salt's Diner
Stylish restaurant in Saltaire serving polished British cooking with seasonal ingredients in a smart yet relaxed dining room.
International Restaurant
Long-established local favourite for Punjabi and Kashmiri curries, kebabs and tandoori dishes in a relaxed, no-frills setting.
MyLahore Bradford
Popular Bradford curry house known for Kashmiri-influenced dishes, grilled meats and a busy, welcoming atmosphere near the city centre.
Pound sterling (£)
Bradford is cheaper than many UK city breaks, with lower hotel, dining and local transport costs than London, Manchester or Edinburgh.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £6-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-28 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up taxi fares. Cafés usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city centre
Bradford Interchange -> Bradford City Centre
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- First Bus states adult tickets can be bought with contactless payment on board or in the First Bus app.
- Bradford Interchange sits on the edge of Bradford City Centre, so many central places are walkable from the station.
FAQs: Watford to Bradford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Watford to Bradford 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 Bradford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Watford to Bradford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £56, while the average price tends to be around £106.
The train journey from Watford to Bradford covers a distance of 255 km and takes approximately 2h 52m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Watford to Bradford is 255 km.
The first train from Watford to Bradford leaves at 0:26.
The last train from Watford to Bradford departs at 20:34.
Trains from Watford to Bradford run approximately 8 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Watford to Bradford.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Watford to Bradford.
To get from Watford to Bradford, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Watford to Bradford.
The train station in Watford that goes to Bradford is Watford Junction (WFJ), and it arrives at Bradford Interchange (BDI).
The cheapest way to get from Watford to Bradford is by train, costing approximately £56.
Booking trains from Watford to Bradford in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Watford to Bradford offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the English countryside, small towns, and rolling hills, particularly as you travel through the Pennines.
A day trip from Watford to Bradford is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 52m and the distance is 255 km. Trains run 12 times per day.
To fully explore Bradford's cultural sites, museums, and nearby attractions, plan for a stay of 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Watford to Bradford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Watford and Bradford
Most Watford to Bradford trains use the Watford Junction to Bradford Interchange station pair, with some services arriving at Bradford Forster Square. Use this guide to compare Watford and Bradford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Watford
Arrival train stations in Bradford
Which Watford station do trains to Bradford leave from?
Trains from Watford to Bradford leave from Watford Junction. The station is 1 km from Watford city centre at Watford Junction station, Station Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 1EU.
Watford JunctionWatford Junction station, Station Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 1EU+44 3301235247
City-centre transport
Getting to Watford Junction from Watford city centre
TrainLondon Euston - Watford Junction, Kilburn High Road - Watford Junction, Willesden Junction Low Level - Watford Junction · 5m · £0.90 · every ~9 min
BusW20 · 5m · £2 · every ~1 min
635 · 7m · £4 · every ~2 min
322 · 20m · £2 · every ~6 min
Watford Junction train station facilities and services
Watford Junction has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, 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 Watford Junction.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Watford Junction.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Watford Junction. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Watford Junction: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Watford Junction: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Watford Junction: Staff help available: Yes, 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 accessible on platform 6, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Ticket Vending Machines are located in the Booking Hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Watford High StreetWatford High Street station, 182 Watford High Street, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 2NW+44 343 222 1234
City-centre transport
Getting to Watford High Street from Watford city centre
Bus321 · 3m · £4 · every ~10 min
306 · 6m · every ~4 min
Watford High Street train station facilities and services
Watford High Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Watford High Street.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Watford High Street. ATMs are available at Watford High Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Watford High Street.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Watford High Street: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Watford High Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Watford High Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Level access to ticket office from street. Single island platform, accessible from entrance by staircase only, Accessible taxis: Contact taxi operator directly, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
BusheyBushey station, Pinner Road, Watford, Greater London, WD19 4EA+44 343 222 1234
City-centre transport
Getting to Bushey from Watford city centre
Bushey is 1 km from Watford city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainWatford Junction - London Euston, Watford Junction - Willesden Junction Low Level, Watford Junction - Kilburn High Road · 2m · £0.90 · every ~9 min
Bus306, 832 · 9m · £4 · every ~4 min
602 · 11m · £2 · every ~5 min
885 · 14m
Bushey train station facilities and services
Bushey has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bushey.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bushey.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bushey. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bushey: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Bushey: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bushey: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Accessibility category C. This station does not have step-free access, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: contact taxi operator directly, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Bradford station do trains from Watford arrive at?
Trains from Watford to Bradford most often arrive at Bradford Interchange. Some services arrive at Bradford Forster Square, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Bradford arrival station.
Bradford InterchangeBradford Interchange station, Bridge Street, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD1 1TU+44 800 200 6060
City-centre transport
Getting to Bradford Interchange from Bradford city centre
Bus662, 820, 864 · 6m · £3 · every ~13 min
Bradford Interchange train station facilities and services
Bradford Interchange has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bradford Interchange.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Bradford Interchange.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bradford Interchange.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bradford Interchange: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bradford Interchange: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bradford Interchange: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A Station, Scooter Friendly Station - There is level access to all the platforms and a wheelchair is available if pre-booked via 0800 138 5560, or by asking for help at the Station Supervisors office next to platform 1. There are also escalators and lifts available from the bus station below up to the rail station. Please note that escalators and lifts are not operated by Northern or Network Rail, Accessible public telephones: in the interchange, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: As per ticket office opening hours, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Bradford Forster SquareBradford Forster Square station, Forster Square, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD1 4HY+44 8002006060
City-centre transport
Getting to Bradford Forster Square from Bradford city centre
Bus622, 626, 680 · 2m · £0.90 · every ~12 min
Bradford Forster Square train station facilities and services
Bradford Forster Square has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bradford Forster Square.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Bradford Forster Square.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bradford Forster Square.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bradford Forster Square: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bradford Forster Square: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bradford Forster Square: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A Station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station Scooter Friendly Station - There is level access to all the platforms and ramps are available. Lift available 06:00 - 19:00 Monday to Saturday, 09:00 - 18:00 Sunday, however there is an alternative accessible route without having to use lift, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
More options for your journey from Watford to Bradford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bradford and Watford
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