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London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads train times and prices
* 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
£24.70
On Sun 1
Live timetable and departures
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
00:01 London Paddington | 6h 57m, 1 change | 06:58 Bristol Temple Meads | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
03:35 London Paddington | 3h 23m, 1 change | 06:58 Bristol Temple Meads | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
05:05 London Paddington | 1h 53m, 1 change | 06:58 Bristol Temple Meads | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
05:18 London Paddington | 2h 17m, 1 change | 07:35 Bristol Temple Meads | Elizabeth line | Find tickets |
05:23 London Paddington | 1h 35m, Direct | 06:58 Bristol Temple Meads | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
Compare train operators from London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads
- Great Western Railway
- South Western Railway
- Elizabeth line
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.
First Class
Standard
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 London Paddington
Address:
Praed Street, London, W2 1HQ, United Kingdom
Public Transport Links:
London Underground: Paddington has two Tube stations, one served by the Bakerloo, Circle and District lines, and the other by eastbound Circle and Hammersmith & City line trains. The station is in Fare Zone 1.
Elizabeth line: Access to/from the speedy Elizabeth line is near platform 1.
Bus: Many TfL routes (including night buses) stop by the entrances on Praed Street (stops F, H and P), Eastbourne Terrace (stops D and E) and the Paddington Basin and Bishops Bridge Road (stops J, K, R and T). Destinations include Camden, Victoria, Piccadilly Circus and New Cross.
Taxi pick-up and drop-off: Licensed black cabs use the taxi rank on the upper level by the Paddington Basin and Bishops Bridge Road entrance (accessible via a ramp, stairs and lift).
Platforms:
17 in total - 13 National Rail platforms (numbered 1–12 and 14), two Tube platforms (15 and 16 for the Circle and Hammersmith & City line), plus two Elizabeth line platforms (named A and B). Great Western Railway (GWR) and Heathrow Express trains depart from the main concourse, while the Elizabeth line is underground.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Grab a coffee on the quieter mezzanine level above the main concourse, and allow plenty of time for the busy station. For a memorable photo opportunity, find the life-sized Paddington Bear statue beneath the station clock on platform 1. Platforms 12 and 14, outside the main train shed, are usually used for local services rather than long-distance GWR trains."
FAQs about London Paddington Station
How do I get to Paddington station?
London Paddington is accessible by Tube (Bakerloo, Circle, District and Hammersmith & City lines), Elizabeth line, National Rail routes (operated by Great Western Railway (GWR) and Heathrow Express) and local buses.
Where are the entrances to the Elizabeth Line station at Paddington?
The Elizabeth line has a street-level entrance on Eastbourne Terrace as well as the western side of the London Paddington station concourse (near platform 1).
How early do you need to get to Paddington station?
Get to London Paddington about 15–20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart so you have enough time to navigate the crowds. The platform will likely be announced 10–15 minutes before, and you’ll need to board the train at least two minutes before the train leaves.
Can you get food at Paddington station?
There’s an array of food and drink options within the station building. Choose from pub classics at The Mad Bishop & Bear, order a pick-me-up from Caffè Nero or grab a quick bite or meal deal from Sainsbury’s, Barburrito or Wasabi.
Is there luggage storage at Paddington station?
Yes, London Paddington station has a staffed left luggage office rather than self-service coin lockers. The office is by platform 12 and open from 07:00 to 23:00.
Arriving at Bristol Temple Meads
Address:
Station Approach, off Bath Road, Bristol, BS1 6QF, United Kingdom
Onward Transit Options:
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.
Top Things to Do & Nearby Attractions:
SS Great Britain (20-minute walk)
Bristol Harbourside and Wapping Wharf (20-minute walk)
St Mary Redcliffe (5-minute walk)
Cabot Circus (15-minute walk)
Clifton Suspension Bridge (15 minutes by bus or taxi)
Airport Transfers:
The A1 Airport Flyer runs 24/7 from the station forecourt to Bristol Airport in approximately 25 minutes, with buses every 8-12 minutes at peak times. Return tickets cost approximately £16.
Bristol Temple Meads Travel Guides:
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: 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.
Great Western Railway trains from London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads
First Class vs Standard — What to choose?
- Standard Class includes free Wi-Fi, power sockets and access to the onboard café. From snacks and sweet treats to sandwiches and wraps, plus soft drinks, beers and wines.
- First Class offers wider seats with extra legroom, tables with plug sockets and USB ports at your seat. A complimentary at-seat trolley service is also included, with drinks and snacks served directly to you. You can also relax before departure in a dedicated First Class lounge. Access to Pullman Dining — a private table on GWR's luxury onboard restaurant (reservation needed)
What is the luggage allowance?
Small bags can be kept under your seat, medium-sized cases go in the overhead racks, and larger items up to 25 x 40 x 70cm should be stored in the dedicated luggage areas. GWR does not permit more than 3 pieces of luggage, or anything larger than 30 x 70 x 90cm.
Is GWR First Class worth it?
Considering it is a 1h journey, First Class is not an essential upgrade, but still a nice-to-have if you’d like some extra comfort. The wider seats and extra legroom make a real difference if you're working on a laptop. In addition, for a special trip, the Pullman Dining car is hard to beat anywhere in the UK.
Train travel from London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads
London Paddington: Getting to the Platform
London Paddington today welcomes an estimated 60,000 passengers every day. The station is also famous for its connection to the beloved Paddington Bear children's book series.
It’s located in the northwestern part of central London, just north of Hyde Park and about 1km from Oxford Street. The station features a range of shops, including WHSmith, Oliver Bonas, and Boots, along with both fast and casual food options throughout the station.
GWR services to Bristol normally use the main line platforms (1-12). However, specific platform numbers for each departure are not fixed and vary by service (check the departure boards or information screens at London Paddington).
Onboard trains from London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads
The route heads east through the stunning Wiltshire and Somerset countryside, passing through Reading and Swindon before arriving in Bristol.
The Scenic side
Shortly after leaving London Paddington, the train passes through the rolling Thames Valley and Berkshire countryside. Sit on the LEFT-hand side (facing west/Bristol) to not miss the view over Windsor Castle and Uffington White Horse.
Key landmarks
Keep your camera ready around 45 minutes into the journey — on a clear day you can spot the white chalk figure of the Uffington White Horse carved into the hillside near Swindon, one of Britain's oldest landmarks dating back over 3,000 years. As you continue westward towards Bristol, the landscape transitions from the Thames Valley through Wiltshire's open countryside, with views of historic market towns like Chippenham and Bath.
Perfect! Now I have all the official information I need. Here's the H3 section for Arriving at Bristol Temple Meads:
Arriving at Bristol Temple Meads
Bristol Temple Meads is the main railway station in Bristol and one of the UK's oldest stations, opened in 1840. The station is situated about 15 minutes' walk from the city centre, with excellent connections to Bristol's attractions and surrounding areas.
The correct exit
Main Exit: Exit through the ticket barriers, turn left and exit through the main doors to reach the station forecourt. From here, you can reach Victoria Street and the city centre on foot in about 15 minutes.
Temple Gate Exit: Follow the footpath to the bottom of Station Approach, where bus stops are situated on both sides of Temple Gate.
The Friary Exit (Ferry Terminal): Exit through the side entrance marked for The Friary to access ferry services connecting Bristol city centre.
Onward Travel
The 8 and 9 bus services run frequently between Bristol Temple Meads Station and the city centre, Broadmead and Cabot Circus. Frequent connections include routes 70, 72 and 73 with departures roughly every ten minutes at peak time.
Bristol Ferry Company operates a ferry service from Temple Meads with a pier just 5 minutes' walk from the station, connecting to the Harbourside and city centre attractions.
A taxi rank is located on the station forecourt.
Walkability
Bristol Temple Meads is a short walk from the city centre – it's a 12–25 minute walk depending on your destination. Bristol Cathedral, the vibrant Harbourside area, and the historical SS Great Britain are close to the station. Bristol Bus Station is situated on Marlborough Street, near Broadmead shopping centre, to continue your journey across Bristol and beyond.
Delay Repay & Refund Policies from London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads
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).
Apply for South Western Railway Delay Repay
If your SWR 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 12.5% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
30-59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket, 25% of a return ticket or 25% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
60-119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 50% of a return ticket or 50% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
Over 120 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 100% of a return ticket or 100% 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 London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads?
Tickets from London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads typically cost £55.89, but can be as cheap as £24.70 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 London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads?
The journey should take, on average, 1h 57m, though it can be as quick as 1h 28m 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 London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads?
Yes, there is a direct train between London Paddington and Bristol Temple Meads. 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 London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads?
You can typically book tickets from London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads up to 12 weeks before departure.
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Do London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads trains offer Wi-Fi?
Yes, most trains on the route from London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads 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 London Paddington from Bristol Temple Meads?
The distance between London Paddington and Bristol Temple Meads is approximately 104 miles (167km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
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How frequent are trains from London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads?
There is 213 train running from London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads per day. Please note that trains run more regularly during peak hours.
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How can I buy the cheapest tickets from London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads?
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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