Trains to Oxford—disruption on the route

See this original thread-
https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/england/oxford-to-didcot-railway-line-closed

Thanks, Lola. Very timely as we arrive LHR on the 2nd and go directly to Oxford. The bus looks more attractive at this point. Three changes otherwise and the last is still to a bus.

Laurel, the Air Bus is great. Leaves from Central Bus Station at LHR and if you get to the bus station ahead of your reservation (if you make one) they usually have room on the bus to take you anyway. I used it last September.

Very timely as we arrive LHR on the 2nd and go directly to Oxford. The
bus looks more attractive at this point.

Even when the trains are running as normal, the bus is a better option between Oxford and Heathrow in my opinion.

The Oxford Tube coach is always a good choice from Heathrow.

I will say that during the GWR disruption account the sad bridge, tickets are valid on the Chilton Railway train service from London Marylebone to Oxford. From Heathrow it would be train either Heathrow Express or Elizabeth Line to Paddington, change to Bakerloo Line two stops to Marylebone and get the train to Oxford. A chance perhaps to collect a route you might not ordinarily use. If you prefer.

Thanks Nigel, Laurie Beth, and Badger. National Rail Inquiries shows 3 trains and a bus!

As much as I dislike buses, I am inclined to take the direct bus although the route Paddington/Marylebone/Oxford is not a bad option.

As much as I dislike buses

What is it you don't like about buses? The ones between Heathrow and Oxford work great in my opinon, the seats are comfortable enough for the trip and roads are in good condition so there is really no risk of motion sickness.

Because, Badger, they are buses. Luggage under, nowhere to move about like on a train. Usually no toilet. While the latter is not a problem for an hour-or-so, it is still a bus. Hate ‘em. Trains whenever feasible for us.

Well at least the Heathrow to Oxford bus has an on board toilet, as do all National Express, Megabus and Flixbus coaches in the UK. Some Scottish Citylink routes don't- notably the 918 Oban to Fort William, and the Glasgow to Belfast service.