Reading to Bristol from $6: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Reading to Bristol: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$6 RideshareBest price

113.3 kmDistance

1h 11m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Reading to Bristol with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Type	Mo 06/01	Tu 07/01	We 08/01	Th 09/01	Fr 10/01	Sa 11/01	Su 12/01
Train	$35	$34	$42	$35	$31	$32	$31

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Traveling From Reading to Bristol

The journey from Reading to Bristol reveals a shift from the tranquility of a historic market town to the vibrant atmosphere of a bustling coastal city.

Best Neighbourhoods in Bristol

Bristol offers diverse neighborhoods each with distinct character and charm.

Clifton

• Iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge views.

• Stylish shops and cozy cafes abound.

St. Nicholas Market

• Bustling atmosphere with local traders.

• Excellent selection of street food options.

Harbourside

• Scenic waterfront areas for leisurely walks.

• Home to cultural attractions like the M Shed.

Best Times To Visit Bristol's Attractions

Bristol’s attractions shine at certain times, helping you avoid crowds and enjoy your visit.

Bristol Zoo Gardens

Visit early morning on weekdays for a quieter experience.

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Choose weekday afternoons for a more peaceful exploration.

SS Great Britain

Plan your trip during off-peak hours, like late mornings, for fewer visitors.

Bristol Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Bristol experiences a maritime climate with mild, damp winters and warm summers, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are spring and early autumn, as pleasant weather enhances outdoor activities and exploration.

Dining Recommendation in Bristol

Bristol's vibrant food scene features local favorites like 'Bristolian' breakfast, which showcases ingredients sourced directly from nearby farms, offering a freshness often absent in Reading. Enjoying this hearty dish at a cozy, independent café not only introduces you to distinct flavors but also immerses you in the city's laid-back yet bustling atmosphere.

Reading - Bristol operators

Explore transport companies operating between Reading and Bristol, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+44 3457 000 125

Website

https://www.gwr.com/

Train from Reading to Bristol Temple Meads

Average Duration

1h 11m

Estimated price

$45-110

Rideshare

Contact phone

+3 318 576 2228

Website

https://blablacar.co.uk

Rideshare from Reading to Bristol

Average Duration

1h 44m

Estimated price

$6-14

Reading to Bristol: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Reading and Bristol offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque road trip from Reading to Bristol, covering a distance of 127.1 km in just about 1 hour and 23 minutes. 💸 Explore cost-effective travel options ranging from £20 to £32 by car, making it a budget-friendly journey to experience the sights and sounds of both cities.

Average price

£19 - £31

🚆 Traveling by train from Reading to Bristol is a convenient option, with direct services departing from Reading station and arriving at Bristol Temple Meads station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 11 minutes, making it a quick and efficient way to travel between the two cities. 💷 Ticket prices for the train between Reading and Bristol typically range from £36 to £87, offering affordable options for travelers looking to explore these two vibrant cities in the United Kingdom.

Departure Point

Reading station

Arrival Point

Bristol Temple Meads station

Useful tips for train travellers

• On this route, you can expect onboard catering services provided by Great Western Railway (GWR). They offer a selection of snacks, drinks, and light meals for purchase. Keep an eye out for the trolley service that operates throughout your journey, as well as the option to pre-order meals in First Class for a more extensive dining experience.

• The train service between Reading and Bristol typically offers two main seating options: First Class and Standard Class. First Class seats provide more spacious seating with extra legroom, complimentary refreshments, and access to the First Class lounge at select stations. Standard Class is more economical but still comfortable, making it a good option for budget-conscious travelers. If you prefer quiet and assured peace, look for the 'Quiet Coach' designation in Standard Class trains.

• The primary operators for this route are Great Western Railway (GWR) and CrossCountry. You can visit their websites for timetables and booking: GWR at gwr.com and CrossCountry at crosscountrytrains.co.uk For local transport schedules upon arrival in Bristol, check the Bristol City Council's public transport section at bristol.gov.uk

🚌 Route 1: Traveling from Reading to Bristol by bus involves a transfer at Heathrow Airport. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 22 minutes to cover a distance of 211 km. 🚌 Route 2: Another option from Reading to Bristol includes a transfer at Bath. This route takes about 3 hours and 47 minutes to complete, covering a distance of 151 km. Passengers will switch buses in Bath before reaching Bristol. 🚌 Route 3: For an alternative journey, passengers can transfer at Heathrow Airport before heading to Bristol. This route takes around 3 hours and 37 minutes to cover a distance of 209 km. The transfer point is at Heathrow Terminal 5 before continuing to Bristol.

Useful tips for bus travellers

• Before your bus journey from Reading to Bristol, check the latest schedule on the RailAir website (railair.com) to ensure you have the correct departure times for the bus from Reading Town Centre to Heathrow Airport, as timings can vary.

• During your transfer at Heathrow, keep track of your bus boarding location; you'll want to take the Megabus (M43) towards Cardiff, which departs from either Terminal 2 or 3—be sure to confirm the correct stop when you arrive.

• Upon arrival at Bristol Bus Station, it's helpful to familiarize yourself with the station layout in advance; visit the First Group website (firstgroup.com) for a map and check out nearby amenities like cafes if you're looking to grab a bite before heading out.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Reading to Bristol.

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The distance between Reading and Bristol is approximately 112.7 km by road. It takes about 1 hour and 23 minutes to travel by car and around 1 hour and 30 minutes by bus. Alternatively, the train journey between the two cities takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Reading to Bristol is to rideshare, which typically costs between £5 and £11. This mode of transportation takes around 1 hour and 44 minutes, which is relatively quick and affordable. However, if time-efficiency is a priority, the quickest option is to take the train, which takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes and costs between £35 and £86.

The train fare from Reading to Bristol ranges from £35 to £86, depending on the class and type of ticket. On the other hand, taking a bus from Bristol to Reading typically costs between £12 and £16.

If you prefer not to use public transportation, an option to consider is using Blablacar's carpooling service for rideshare options between Reading and Bristol. This is a convenient and cost-effective way to travel without having to drive yourself. The driving distance between Reading and Bristol is approximately 127.1 km and it takes around 1 hour and 23 minutes to reach Bristol by car. The prices for carpooling services can range from £20 to £31, providing you with different budget options for your journey.

The best way to travel from Reading to Bristol without a car is by train, which takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. The train journey is convenient and efficient, with several trains running throughout the day. The cost of a train ticket can range from £35 to £86, depending on the time of travel and the type of ticket purchased.

Yes, there is a direct link between Reading and Bristol. The train journey from Reading to Bristol takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, with services departing hourly. Alternatively, there is a direct bus service that operates once daily, taking approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

There are numerous options for accommodation near Bristol. With over 1687 hotels available, travelers can find options for every budget and preference. Prices start at £24 per night, offering affordable choices for those on a tight budget.