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Southampton Central 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
€11.27
On Wed 28
Live timetable and departures
The journey from Southampton Central to Bristol Temple Meads on the fastest train in 2h 6m, usually 2h 31m. Each day, 34 trains leave from Southampton Central, starting at 05:15 and ending at 16:15. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
05:15 Southampton Central | 2h 18m, 1 change | 07:33 Bristol Temple Meads | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
05:33 Southampton Central | 2h 42m, 1 change | 08:15 Bristol Temple Meads | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
06:15 Southampton Central | 2h 18m, 1 change | 08:33 Bristol Temple Meads | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
06:47 Southampton Central | 2h 38m, 1 change | 09:25 Bristol Temple Meads | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
07:00 Southampton Central | 2h 28m, 3 change | 09:28 Bristol Temple Meads | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
Compare train operators from Southampton Central to Bristol Temple Meads
- Great Western Railway
- South Western Railway
- CrossCountry
First Class
Standard
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 Southampton Central
Address:
Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL
Public Transport Links:
Bus: Local bus services stop on Blechynden Terrace on the northern side of the station and on Western Esplanade on the southern side, with frequent connections across Southampton and the wider region.
Taxi: Licensed taxi ranks are located on both sides at the northern entrance on Blechynden Terrace and the southern entrance on Western Esplanade. Taxis to the cruise terminals typically take 5-10 minutes and cost around £10, depending on which terminal you're heading to.
Car: Paid parking is available on both sides of the station with a long-stay option on Blechynden Terrace. Pre-booking is recommended for cruise passengers.
Platforms:
Four platforms, each split into A and B sections to accommodate two services simultaneously. Managed by South Western Railway with step-free access throughout.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"The National Express coach station is just a short walk from the station – useful to know if you're connecting between rail and coach services, or need onward transport to London or further afield. WestQuay shopping centre is directly adjacent to the southern entrance. With a wide range of restaurants, coffee shops and retail all under one roof, it's the best and most convenient option if you’re looking to grab a bite to eat or a drink before or after your train.
If you have a little more time, the SeaCity Museum is a 10-minute walk from the station and tells the story of Southampton's extraordinary maritime history, including a remarkable permanent exhibition on the Titanic, which departed on its fatal voyage from here."
FAQs about Southampton Central Station
Is Southampton Parkway the same as Southampton Central?
No, they are two separate stations. Southampton Central is the main city centre station on Blechynden Terrace, serving intercity services to London, Manchester and Cardiff. Southampton Airport Parkway is approximately 7 minutes away by train and serves Southampton Airport with a direct link to the terminal.
Is there a free bus from Southampton Central to the cruise terminal?
No, there is no free bus or shuttle service between Southampton Central and the cruise terminals. The most practical option is a taxi, available at ranks on both the northern and southern entrances. The journey typically takes 5-10 minutes and costs around £10, depending on which terminal you're heading to.
How far is Southampton train station from the town?
Southampton Central is in the heart of the city – WestQuay shopping centre is right beside the station, and the historic high street, Bargate and city centre are all within a 10-15 minute walk. The SeaCity Museum and Mayflower Theatre are both around 10 minutes away on foot.
How do I get from Southampton Central to the Red Funnel ferry?
Red Funnel ferries to the Isle of Wight depart from Town Quay, approximately a 15-minute walk from Southampton Central, or a short taxi ride. A bus link to Town Quay also operates from outside the station.
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: Southampton Central to Bristol Temple Meads trains
Departing from Southampton Central
Main stops
Arriving at Bristol Temple Meads
Great Western Railway train classes
- Standard Class: Passengers have a table at every seat, luggage storage areas and power sockets to charge devices. Stay connected with free Wi-Fi. Buy cheap train tickets when you book ahead. Tickets are typically available up to 12 weeks before the travel date.
- First Class: Southampton to Bristol First Class accommodation is currently not available. On other services, coaches are fitted with individual seating. Travellers also receive complimentary food and drinks. At certain stations such as London Paddington, passengers can also use the Great Western Railway First Class lounge.
Great Western Railway train travel advice
- Luggage: Each passenger is allowed three pieces of luggage. The maximum dimensions for suitcases are 25 x 40 x 75 centimetres.
- Bicycles: Great Western Railway advises pre-booking a bike space, and it’s mandatory to do so on the Night Riviera Sleeper service. E-scooters are now banned.
- Children: Up to two under-5s get free travel. Fares are 50% off for 5–15-year-olds. Older teens with a 16–17 Saver Railcard can also enjoy half-price discounts on Anytime, Off-Peak, Advance and Season tickets.
- Pets: Two pets are allowed on board. If you’d like to bring any more, you’ll need to pay half the adult fare. Keep all pets in an enclosed carrier or on a and off seats.
- Passenger Assist: Request help, such as using wheelchair spaces, no more than two hours before you travel. Getting assistance on the day is also possible, but it may take longer.
FAQ
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How much is a train from Southampton Central to Bristol Temple Meads?
Tickets from Southampton Central to Bristol Temple Meads typically cost €79.44, but can be as cheap as €11.27 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 Southampton Central to Bristol Temple Meads?
The journey should take, on average, 2h 31m, though it can be as quick as 2h 6m 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 Southampton Central to Bristol Temple Meads?
There is no direct service between Southampton Central and Bristol Temple Meads. Instead, when browsing routes, you will see our recommendations for changeover stations that are the most convenient and time-efficient.
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How far in advance can I book my train from Southampton Central to Bristol Temple Meads?
You can typically book tickets from Southampton Central to Bristol Temple Meads up to 12 weeks before departure.
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Do Southampton Central to Bristol Temple Meads trains offer Wi-Fi?
Yes, most trains on the route from Southampton Central 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 Southampton Central from Bristol Temple Meads?
The distance between Southampton Central and Bristol Temple Meads is approximately 63 miles (101km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
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How frequent are trains from Southampton Central to Bristol Temple Meads?
There is 34 train running from Southampton Central 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 Southampton Central 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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