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Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa train times and prices
Plan your journey from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.
Price*
From €12.80
Departure station
Arrival station
Journey time
11m
Distance
11 miles (17km)
First/last train
05:01 / 23:45
Frequency
72
Train operators
* Note: Lowest prices are based on an analysis of recent historical pricing data. Live fares fluctuate based on demand and how far in advance you book.
7-day train ticket price trend
Travelling from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa by train? Find fares from as low as €12.80. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest
€12.80
On Wed 11
Live timetable and departures
Travelling from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa, the fastest train takes 11m with an average travel time of 13m. 72 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 05:01 and the last at 23:45. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
22:50 Bristol Temple Meads | 12m, Direct | 23:02 Bath Spa | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
23:06 Bristol Temple Meads | 16m, Direct | 23:22 Bath Spa | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
23:45 Bristol Temple Meads | 17m, Direct | 00:02 Bath Spa | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
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Travelling with Great Western Railway from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa
Great Western Railway (GWR) serves the West of England and South Wales from its central hub at London Paddington. In addition to intercity, commuter and regional services, it also offers one of the UK’s two sleeper services, the Night Riviera. The Pullman Dining car brings a must-try culinary experience to GWR’s First Class experience for a truly unique train ride.
Standard
Firm, thinly cushioned seating
Guaranteed seat reservations on Advance tickets or longer routes
Free onboard WiFi on most trains
Air conditioning available, less reliable on local lines
Luggage
Pet
Food & Drink
Bike
Seat Facilities
First Class
Ideal for luxury leisure travellers, rail enthusiasts, foodies
Wider, reclining seats with adjustable armrests
More legroom with solo, two- and four-table seats
Guaranteed seat reservations on Advance tickets or longer routes
Air conditioning available - less reliable on local lines
Option to upgrade to Pullman Dining experience
Luggage
Lounge Access
Food & Drink
Seat Types
Pet
Onboard facilities
Bike
Seat Facilities
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Commuter times and weekend trains can be quite overcrowded on GWR trains (especially on trains to/from London Paddington), mainly due to the fact they tend to opt for 5-carriage trains instead of 9. I’d recommend booking a seat if travelling at these times to save you battling for one. "
"The Pullman Dining experience really is something everyone should try at least once. You can opt for 2 or 3 course meals prepared by chefs Monday–Friday with produce sourced from regions across GWR’s network. First Class passengers can book 2 weeks in advance (not included in the ticket), and Standard passengers can enquire with staff about availability on the day."
Essential onboard policies
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Luggage
- Most UK train operators allow passengers to bring a reasonable amount of luggage free of charge.
- This is commonly considered three items per passenger, typically 2 larger bags and 1 smaller bag. Larger items cover suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
- Bags go in overhead racks, under seats, or in designated floor-level luggage stacks.
- Occasionally, some providers have stricter policies, such as Lumo, which enforces a limit of 1 medium suitcase and 1 small under-seat bag per person.
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Bicycle
- Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed.
- Bike reservations are required on some services and are usually free.
- Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes.
- Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted.
- We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.
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Children
- Children under 5 usually travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger.
- Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
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Pets
- Each provider generally allows up to two animals per passenger free of charge, but individual operators can have additional restrictions.
- Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier.
- Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
- Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange free assistance with their train operator.
- This includes help at the station, boarding and leaving the train, and making connections. Assistance can also include ramps for wheelchair users and help finding accessible facilities or the correct platform.
- Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets are available on many trains, although facilities vary by service.
- To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
Departing from Bristol Temple Meads
Address:
Station Approach, off Bath Road, Bristol, BS1 6QF, United Kingdom
Public Transport Links:
Bus: Routes 1, 2, 8, 70, 71 and 72 stop directly outside. Route 1 from Temple Gate runs to the city centre every 5 minutes. The A1 Airport Flyer runs 24/7 from the station forecourt.
Ferry: Bristol Ferry Boats run from the Temple Back East landing stage, reached via the Friary exit – a scenic alternative to reach the Harbourside and city centre.
Taxi: There is a licensed taxi rank on the station forecourt. Exit the barriers, turn left and walk through the main doors. Both drop-off and pick-up at the station entrance.
Platforms:
The station is fully gated with 13 platforms in use. Platforms are numbered 1-15, but platforms 2 and 14 are omitted. Platforms 3, 13 and 15 are the main departure platforms for GWR long-distance services to London Paddington.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Bristol Temple Meads is one of the six most important stations in the UK – a Grade I listed Gothic masterpiece designed by Brunel with fascinating architectural details at every turn. Look out for his statue in the forecourt. For the city centre and Cabot Circus, you’ll want the Friary exit. Just follow the signs for Temple Quay. Feeling peckish? Hart's Bakery outside does exceptional pastries and coffee. Turn left out of the main entrance and look for Arch 35."
FAQs about Bristol Temple Meads Station
Are there any hotels close to Bristol Temple Meads?
Yes, there is a selection of three- and four-star hotels within walking distance of the station, including Holiday Inn, Ibis, Novotel and Hilton Garden Inn.
Is Bristol Temple Meads in the city centre?
Not quite, the station sits about a mile southeast of Bristol city centre, roughly a 15-minute walk away. Turn right out of the main entrance and follow the Brunel Mile signs towards Cabot Circus.
How far is Bristol Temple Meads from the shops at Cabot Circus?
Cabot Circus, Bristol’s main shopping centre with over 100 stores, is approximately a 15-minute walk from the station. Take the Friary exit and follow the Temple Quay signs. It’s a straightforward, well-signposted route.
Is there a car park at Bristol Temple Meads?
Yes, there is an APCOA-operated car park with 309 spaces on Station Approach, open 24/7. Note that Bristol operates a Clean Air Zone – check whether your vehicle is affected before driving into the city.
Arriving at Bath Spa
Address:
Dorchester Street, Bath Spa, Somerset, BA1 1SU
Onward Transit Options:
Bus: Bath bus station is directly adjacent to the railway station on Dorchester Street, offering local services across Bath as well as regional services to Bristol, Wales and surrounding Somerset towns. The A4 Airport Flyer to Bristol Airport also departs from here.
Taxi: A licensed taxi rank is located directly outside the main station entrance on Dorchester Street.
Car: 78 spaces are available in the station car park, while there is more parking available in the SouthGate car park on Dorchester Street, a short walk from the station. Note that Bath operates a clean air zone – check whether your vehicle is affected before driving into the city.
Top Things to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Roman baths (10-minute walk)
Thermae Bath Spa (15-minute walk)
Royal Crescent and the Circus (20-minute walk)
Pulteney Bridge and Great Pulteney Street (15-minute walk)
Bath Abbey (10-minute walk)
Airport Transfers:
For flights, Bristol Airport is the most convenient option. The A4 Airport Flyer runs from Bath bus station, directly adjacent to the railway station, to Bristol Airport in approximately 50 minutes. Services run throughout the day and into the night.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Franco Manca pizzeria is right next door to the station – a great option for a quick meal before or after your train, with their signature sourdough pizza at very reasonable prices.
For coffee, Café au Lait is a short walk from the station and one of Bath's most popular independent cafes. If you have a few minutes to spare, you can wander the city centre close by, spotting the city’s iconic red telephone boxes dotted across the city, now repurposed for a variety of uses."
FAQs: Bath Spa Station
Is Bath Spa the same as Bath train station?
Yes, Bath Spa is the official name for Bath's main railway station, located on Dorchester Street. It is sometimes referred to simply as Bath station, but Bath Spa is its correct National Rail name.
How far is Bath Spa from the train station?
While Bath Spa is the name of the train station, the Roman Baths, which are Bath's most famous attraction, are approximately a 10-minute walk from the station through the city centre. The city itself is extremely walkable, with most major sites within 15-20 minutes by foot.
Are there two stations in Bath?
Bath has two railway stations – Bath Spa on Dorchester Street is the main station for intercity services and is the one most visitors use. Oldfield Park is a smaller suburban station to the west of the city, served by local GWR services.
Is Bath walkable from the station?
Yes, Bath is one of the most walkable cities in the UK. The Roman Baths are a 10-minute walk, the Royal Crescent is around 20 minutes, and the Thermae Bath Spa is around 15 minutes. The entire compact city centre is accessible on foot from the station.
Onboard experience with Great Western Railway: Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa
Enjoy a comfortable journey on a direct route from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa with Great Western Railway (GWR). Below you’ll find our top tips for a pleasant and stylish connection, whether you want a practical, budget-friendly trip in Standard Class or a luxurious First Class travel experience.
How far is the trip from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath?
Bath is only 11 minutes from Bristol using public transport. With a direct Great Western Railway train, cover the 11-mile distance in the time it takes you to sip a coffee.
What’s it like on board Great Western Railway trains?
Spacious seats, optional seat reservations, and fast, free Wi-Fi make the experience in Standard Class comfortable and practical. To get online, search for ‘GWR WiFi’ and select connect, then open your device's internet browser and register with your details.
Does Great Western Railway offer plenty of luggage space?
Yes, GWR has plenty of storage options on its trains. Bring up to three bags onboard and store them safely in overhead racks. With GWR, transport cabin-style hand luggage, or bigger suitcases. Every case has its place!
Is GWR First Class worth it?
It depends on your budget and travel priorities, but passengers enjoy GWR’s First Class tickets for its personalised service, complimentary drinks, and quieter travel environment. Enjoy snacks like biscuits and cakes throughout the journey.
Train travel from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa
Travel from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa by train on direct GWR services. Using our local station secrets, you’ll complete your short journey across the South West in style.
Bristol Temple Meads: Getting to the Platform
Bristol Temple Meads is the South West’s major transport hub. Where can you travel from Bristol Temple Meads? Routes take passengers to Devon, the Midlands, Wales, as well as to local stops like Bath Spa.
- Bus to Bristol Temple Meads: To get the train to Bath, board First Bus services from across the city to reach Bristol Temple Meads station. If you’re coming from Clifton Suspension Bridge, you’ll need the number 8, which goes direct to Temple Meads via Cabot Circus.
- Refreshments before you board: Bristol Temple Meads has excellent facilities for a convenient start to your journey. Although the route is only short, it’s still better to have enough snacks for your trip! On the main concourse, find big names like Costa Coffee and WH Smith, or buy a coffee from Cafe Local between platforms 4 and 5.
Onboard trains from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa
From Bristol to Bath, your journey east will only last 11 miles. Even so, there will still be time to see some interesting attractions and landscapes.
- Key Landmarks: You’ll see Conham River Park, Avon Valley Adventure Park, and Kelston Park on the Left-Hand Side of the train. Once out of Bristol, the Right is dominated by green fields and farmland.
- The View Alert: For the best views as you track the River Avon towards Bath, choose a seat on the Left-Hand Side (facing East).
Arriving at Bath Spa
And before you know it, you’ll be in Bath! This charming city is filled with inspiring attractions guaranteed to stimulate your creativity and passions. Here are our top tips for getting out of the station and completing your onward travel.
- Let the sightseeing begin: Bath Spa Station is a Grade II listed building, built in the Tudor-style station by renowned engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Not a bad way to start your culture-seeking visit! To continue on foot, leave the station onto Brunel Square, then continue onto Dorchester Road; from there, you’ll be only a short walk from the heart of Bath’s Roman centre.
- Buses and taxis: If you’re continuing your journey from Bath Spa, board buses run by First for direct routes to the city centre, or further afield to attractions like Bath Abbey. Bath Spa also has a taxi rank directly outside the front of the station.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.
Delay Repay & Refund Policies from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa
Apply for Great Western Railway Delay Repay
If your Great Western Railway train is delayed, you can claim compensation depending on the length of your delay:
15–29 minutes: 25% of a single ticket, 12.5% of a return ticket or 25% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
30–59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket, 25% of a return ticket or 50% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
60–119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 50% of a return ticket or 100% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
Over 120 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 100% of a return ticket or 200% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey. (Note: Two separate Advance Single tickets do not count as a return; you can only claim for the specific delayed ticket).
FAQ
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How much is a train from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa?
Tickets from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa typically cost €12.98, but can be as cheap as €12.80 when booked in advance. Other factors that may affect the ticket price include time of day and ticket type, so be sure to research before purchasing.
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How long is the train from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa?
The journey should take, on average, 13m, though it can be as quick as 11m when booking specific services. Be sure to click the "Fastest" tab when searching your route to find out.
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Is there a direct train from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa?
Yes, there is a direct train between Bristol Temple Meads and Bath Spa. However, you will find indirect services listed too, including where you will have to make a changeover. Check each listing for either ‘direct’ or how many stops are required when purchasing your ticket.
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How far in advance can I book my train from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa?
You can typically book tickets from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa up to 12 weeks before departure.
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Do Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa trains offer Wi-Fi?
Yes, most trains on the route from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa are equipped with Wi-Fi, as well as power sockets at your seat. However, please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train compan.
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How far is Bristol Temple Meads from Bath Spa?
The distance between Bristol Temple Meads and Bath Spa is approximately 11 miles (17km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
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How frequent are trains from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa?
There is 72 train running from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa per day. Please note that trains run more regularly during peak hours.
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How can I buy the cheapest tickets from Bristol Temple Meads to Bath Spa?
To get the cheapest ticket, we recommend buying in advance, as early as 12 weeks before departure. We'd also strongly suggest travelling during off-peak hours where possible and getting a Railcard, which typically offers ⅓ off your ticket cost and is available to most travellers!
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How do I check if my train is delayed or cancelled?
Keep a close eye on your journey via the TrainPal app, which offers real-time information on train status and notifications of any train strikes that will impact you.
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Can my tickets be refunded or changed?
In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime and Off-Peak tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.
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* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.
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