Train from London to the Cotswolds | Best Routes, Times & Tips

The Cotswolds is one of the most charming and picturesque regions in England, and it's surprisingly easy to visit by train from London. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a day trip, travelling by train offers a stress-free and scenic route into the heart of the English countryside.

Best Train Routes from London to the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds doesn’t have a single main station, but several market towns are well-served by rail. Key routes include:

Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh: Direct trains run regularly and take about 1 hour 30 minutes. This is one of the most popular options, serving the northern Cotswolds.
Paddington to Kemble: Perfect for visiting Cirencester and the southern Cotswolds. The journey takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Marylebone to Banbury or Oxford: You can transfer from these stations to smaller Cotswold towns via taxi or bus.

Two trains at a London railway station ready to depart for the Cotswolds. — Trains depart London for the Cotswolds every hour during the day

Recommended Towns to Visit by Train

Moreton-in-Marsh: A charming market town with direct train access and plenty of boutique shops, cafes, and easy bus links to places like Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-on-the-Water.
Kingham: A peaceful village served by the Paddington line, with nearby access to Daylesford Organic and Chipping Norton.
Kemble: Gateway to Cirencester, often called the "Capital of the Cotswolds."

Travel Tips

Book Early: Advance fares can be significantly cheaper. Use National Rail or Trainline to compare times and prices.
Off-Peak Travel: Travelling off-peak (usually after 9:30am on weekdays) offers better value and a quieter journey.
Local Transport: While the Cotswolds is best explored by car, there are decent local bus connections from key stations to nearby villages.
Private tour companies can collect you and drop you back at a railway station. So you may wish to consider booking a day tour of the Cotswolds. An 8 hour tour of the northern part of the Cotswolds will give you a fantastic day out. See our one day north Cotswolds itinerary for an example day trip.

View of bridge in Bourton-on-the-Water, Cotswolds. — You can be at Bourton-on-the-Water within 2 hours from laving London

Frequently Asked Questions

What train goes from London to the Cotswolds?

Direct trains from London Paddington go to Moreton-in-Marsh, Kingham, and Kemble. These towns offer convenient access to different parts of the Cotswolds.

How long is the train from London to the Cotswolds?

It depends on your destination, but the journey to Moreton-in-Marsh typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Is there a direct train from London to the Cotswolds?

Yes, there are direct services from London Paddington to towns like Moreton-in-Marsh and Kemble.

What is the cheapest way to get from London to the Cotswolds?

Booking train tickets in advance and travelling during off-peak times is usually the most affordable way to reach the Cotswolds from London.

Final Thoughts

Travelling by train from London to the Cotswolds is a fantastic option for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the countryside without the hassle of driving. With a bit of planning, you can be exploring Cotswold villages in under two hours from central London.