Getting from London to Bristol (and return)
Bristol ranks fourth in the top destinations in England , having a long maritime history and offering a variety of activities. During the summer, the city comes to life thanks to the many festivals taking place here.
Although the city is served by Bristol Airport (BRS), the ninth busiest airport in the UK, and a major base for both Ryanair and EasyJet, there aren’t any flights to/from London due to the short distance between the two cities. Actually, London’s airports are very good alternatives for those who need to travel to Bristol. Heathrow (LHR) is just 2 hours by car from Bristol via M4, while Gatwick and Stansted are 3 hours by car.
Quick summary
The cheapest way to travel from London to Bristol is by coach. Fares start at £5.50 one way and the journey takes between 2h 20 min and 3 h, depending on the traffic.
Trains from London to Bristol
Trains depart London Paddington Station and arrive at Bristol Temple Meads Railway Station, which is located 15 min from the city center and is the oldest, continuously and still operating train station in the world.
The service from London is run by First Great Western and there are trains departing London every 15 min. The journey takes between 1 ½ h and 2 hours, depending on the number of stops along the way. The cheapest standard single ticket is £17.50 and is valid on the specified train only. The off peak single ticket is £37.00 and is valid on any off peak train; while the anytime single ticket is £84.50 and is valid any time of the day.
>>read more about the Railway Stations in London
Buses from London to Bristol
There are two companies which offer bus services between London and Bristol:
- National Express : departs from London Victoria Coach Station and arrive at Marlborough St Coach station , near the city center. Buses depart every hour from London and the travel time is between 2h 21 min and 3 h. Single fares start at £5.50 and depend on the day and hour of departure.
- Mega Bus : departs from London Victoria Coach Station every hour , in the morning, and every 2 ½ h during the day. The journey time is 2h 30 min and the single ticket is £7.00.
Driving from London to Bristol
Bristol is located 118 miles west of London and can be reached by car in about 2 h 10 min via M4.
