Bristol to Oxford trains return after 20-year absence

Direct services between the cities of Bristol and Oxford have returned for the first time since 2003.

The first service departed from Bristol Temple Meads at 1018 on September 14, with the return leaving Oxford at 1203.

It also restores a lost link between Swindon and Oxford. Previously, passengers had to change at Didcot, whereas the direct road link on the A420 is shorter.

However, the train is a trial Saturday-only service with two round trips a day, allowing only five hours in each city for leisure day trips.

And Great Western Railway has only committed to running until December. It says connecting the Bath and Oxford Christmas markets is part of its purpose, as it assesses demand for the service.

The journey takes 1hr 11mins, much quicker than the equivalent road journey. It stops at Bath Spa, Chippenham and Swindon.

“Changing customer patterns since COVID have provided a clear opportunity for us to expand our leisure offering, and the Bristol-Oxford route is one which offers real potential,” said GWR Managing Director Mark Hopwood.

GWR sees the service as a “toe in the water” to establish demand, with a view to increasing the frequency in future. It utilises a Hitachi Intercity Express Train that would otherwise be idle on a Saturday.

Swindon Borough Council leader John Robbins said: “I hope the trial is a great success and it leads to permanent and more frequent services.”

Oxford City Council cabinet member Louise Upton called it “a game-changer for the region”, opening up new opportunities or business and leisure.