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Bedford to Barnstaple by train

First train

04:18

Last train

20:48

Departure station

Bedford

Arrival station

Barnstaple

Journey time

From 4h 52m

Distance

170 miles (274 km)

Frequency

9 trains per day

Changes

3 changes

Train operators

Great Western Railway, Thameslink

Travel from Bedford to Barnstaple by train in 4 hours 52 minutes

If you want to know more about the journey from Bedford to Barnstaple by train, look no further!

The average journey time from Bedford to Barnstaple by train is 6 hours 40 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 4 hours 52 minutes. You'll usually find 9 trains per day travelling the 170 miles (274 km) between these two destinations. You'll need to make 3 changes along the way to Barnstaple. Trains on this route are usually operated by either Great Western Railway or Thameslink. On board you'll find modern comfortable seating and plenty of room for luggage as standard.

Plan your trip ahead and book your train tickets in advance if you want to snap up the cheapest fares. Travelling Off-Peak or using a Railcard are also great ways to save. Just start a search in our Journey Planner to view the latest prices for trains from Bedford to Barnstaple.

Keep reading for more information about the train journey to Barnstaple, including FAQs, and tips on booking cheap train tickets. Check the timetable above for live train times or if you're ready to book, just start a search for tickets with us today.

Journey details

Want to know more about your journey from Bedford to Barnstaple? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How long does the train from Bedford to Barnstaple take?

The average journey time by train between Bedford and Barnstaple is 6 hours and 40 minutes, with around 9 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.

What's the fastest journey time between Bedford and Barnstaple by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Bedford to Barnstaple is 4 hours and 52 minutes.

Is there a direct train from Bedford to Barnstaple?

No, there are no direct train services from Bedford to Barnstaple. Travelling from Bedford to Barnstaple by train will require a minimum of 3 changes.

What time does the first train from Bedford to Barnstaple leave?

The first train from Bedford to Barnstaple leaves at 04:18. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.

What time does the last train from Bedford to Barnstaple leave?

The last train from Bedford to Barnstaple leaves at 20:48. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.

What's the distance between Bedford and Barnstaple by train?

Trains travelling from Bedford to Barnstaple cover a distance of around 170 miles (274 km) during the journey.

Looking for more information?

If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Barnstaple to Bedford.

Cheap train tickets from Bedford to Barnstaple

Book in advance

Look out for Advance tickets – they usually come out up to 12 weeks before the departure date and can be cheaper than buying on the day. If you’re here a tad early, sign up for our Advance ticket alert today to get notified when your tickets are released.

Consider a Season Ticket

If you catch this train more than 3 times per week, you could save money with a Season Ticket. With annual, monthly and weekly options available, find out if a season ticket for Bedford to Barnstaple is right for you.

Use your Railcard

National Railcards offer a 1/3 off eligible train tickets in the UK and can be a great investment if you travel a few times or more in a year. Find out how you can save with a National Railcard here.

Split your tickets

Download our app to find split tickets — courtesy of SplitSave, our handy feature which 'splits' your train tickets where possible to find you a better deal. Learn more about the clever tech behind split tickets, and how to spot SplitSave discounts in our app.

For more money-saving tips on UK and European train travel, read our cheap train tickets guide.

† Average savings on advance fares booked at least one week before day of travel vs Anytime fares purchased on day of travel. Subject to availability. Excludes coach.

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