Looking for opinions on the best way to get from Gatwick to Bristol (traveling in April). Hubby is thinking train, but the route I see suggested is the Gatwick Express to London Victoria, then we have to get to Paddington to pick up the train west to Bristol (about 3.5 hours). Seems pretty indirect. The other option I hear mentioned is bus (National Express airport transfer) which will take about the same amount of time but with no transfer (and presumably cheaper). Thoughts? Is the train option better? Also, does it pay to reserve seats on trains (will have railpass) particularly Gatwick to Bristol, and Bath to London? Thank you in advance for your advice.
Posted by
Troy, Oh, USA
2805 posts
There is a train that leaves Gatwick Airport at 11:53 that goes to Bristol Temple with one change in Clampton Junction arrives in Bristol at 3:05pm, 3hrs 12minutes travel time. There are others that leaves at 12:03pm changes at Reading, 1:03pm changing at Reading, 2:03pm changing in Reading.
There are other trains but they have two and three changes.
Posted by
2599 posts
You will find an hourly frequency between Gatwick & Reading - where you pick up a train going to Bristol. Please note that Temple Meads is the downtown station & that Bristol Parkway is on the edge of the city. Pre-book specific trains as soon as possible for lower prices as turn up and pay on the day is more expensive. GTW > BRI (The ones with 1 change are those avoiding London - click DETAILS). What Robin says is also correct - but it is just the odd train run by South West Trains. https://www.gwr.com is the company that you will most likely use.
www.nationalrail.co.uk