News / Transport
First Bristol to Oxford train for 21 years leaves Temple Meads
The 10.18am train from platform 12 at Bristol Temple Meads on Saturday morning appeared to be just an ordinary departure.
But this was a historic moment: the first direct train between Bristol Temple Meads and Oxford in more than 20 years.
Only two return Saturday services are operating for now, with the quickest journey time taking one hour 11 minutes between the two cities.
is needed now More than ever
The new trial services – the first since 2003 – will run until December.
Stops between Bristol and Oxford include Bath Spa, Chippenham and Swindon.
The new trial services will run until December – photo: Simon Hickman
GWR managing director, Mark Hopwood, said: “We’re always looking at innovative ways of creating new business and improving connectivity.
“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.”
Matt Griffith, director of policy at Business West, added: “A direct service between Oxford, Swindon, Bath and Bristol would be a real boost to the region and the benefits of living and doing business here.
“Having direct connectivity between some of the world’s best universities, businesses and tourist attractions is a fantastic positive and we think will prove very popular.
“We hope this new ‘brain train’ service will grow from strength to strength and make residents, business and investors really excited about all that the great western region has to offer.”
Main photo: Simon Hickman
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