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Trains from London Waterloo to
Cheltenham Spa

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London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa by train

Planning a train journey from London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa? The trip usually takes about 3hrs 51 mins, covering approximately 89 miles (143 kilometres). With roughly 34 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options to suit your schedule. Booking your tickets ahead of time can snag you fares as low as £19.00, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cheltenham Spa

Departure Station

London Waterloo

Frequency

34trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 1 mins

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:26 / 00:05

Distance

89miles
(143 km)

8 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£19.00

Travelling from London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa by Train

Jump on a Train from London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 3hrs 51 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo, the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 1 mins. With approximately 34 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 89-mile (143 km) route usually requires just one change, with CrossCountry, South Western Railway, GWR providing comfortable seating and ample luggage space – because being cramped isn't anyone's idea of fun!

The best news? By booking early, you can find tickets starting at just £19.00, a significant saving compared to last-minute purchases. To save even more, consider traveling during Off-Peak hours or using a Railcard to keep your expenses down.

Ready to grab those low-cost tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest discounts and keep your budget happy. Explore more travel tips below or check our timetable for current train schedules. All aboard to Cheltenham Spa!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between London Waterloo and Cheltenham Spa

Curious about your trip from London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between London Waterloo and Cheltenham Spa by train?

The travel time between London Waterloo and Cheltenham Spa by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 51 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 1 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between London Waterloo and Cheltenham Spa by train?

The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa is 3hrs 1 mins.

How much does the train from London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa cost?

Train ticket prices from London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa can start from as little as £19.00 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo and Cheltenham Spa?

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo and Cheltenham Spa vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 34 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:26, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:05.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between London Waterloo and Cheltenham Spa?

First class tickets on trains between London Waterloo and Cheltenham Spa typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between London Waterloo and Cheltenham Spa?

Amenities on trains between London Waterloo and Cheltenham Spa can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between London Waterloo and Cheltenham Spa. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Cheltenham Spa, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Waterloo & Cheltenham Spa. However, there are 34 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa?

CrossCountry, South Western Railway and GWR are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo and Cheltenham Spa.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo and Cheltenham Spa?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo and Cheltenham Spa, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa on Friday 4th July 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Friday 4th July
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
23:50 London Waterloo08:30 Cheltenham Spa2 changesReading
Swindon (Wilts)
8 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
23:53 London Waterloo09:31 Cheltenham Spa2 changesGuildford
Reading
9 hrs 38 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Advance fares from London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa start from as little as £19.00

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Off Peak fares from London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa start from £39.70 one way, or £67.80 return

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from London Waterloo to Cheltenham Spa are available for £108.40 one way, or £216.80 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

Split ticketing means that instead of purchasing one rail ticket for your journey we automatically find and help you book two or more tickets instead, covering exactly the same journey. We call it our FairSplit.

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about London Waterloo Station

London Waterloo Train Station: A Hub of Vibrancy and Connectivity

Nestled in the heart of London, Waterloo Station stands as a bustling epicenter for commuters and travelers alike, serving as the beating heart of UK's rail network. From the breath-taking grandeur of its architecture to its vibrant hustle and bustle, it's a place where the world feels like it's at your fingertips. Beyond the picturesque platforms, London Waterloo isn't just about catching a train; it's an experience that embraces convenience, accessibility, and variety.

Facilities and Amenities at London Waterloo

London Waterloo Station is replete with facilities designed to make your journey smooth and hassle-free. Its ticket office operates from 5:30 AM to 11:15 PM during weekdays and Saturdays, with slightly adjusted times on Sundays. For those who prefer to plan their travels in advance, ticket machines are available on the main concourse, making online ticket collection straightforward and accessible. Moreover, there's an induction loop system making communication easy for the hearing impaired.

Accessibility is one of the key strengths of Waterloo Station, with step-free access available throughout. The station is ably equipped to cater to the needs of all passengers, featuring accessible toilets, ramps for train access, and seating areas to ensure comfort. Help points, dedicated staff assistance, and an extensive customer service offering guarantee that you’re never without support.

Shopping, Dining, and More

Beyond travel, the station's main concourse presents a generous selection of shopping and dining options. From seated dining experiences to convenient takeaways, the station has every palate covered. A mix of shops, including a pharmacy, clothing stores, and more, ensure that whatever last-minute essentials you may need, you’ll find them on hand.

Getting to and From Waterloo: Transport Options

Moving beyond the platforms, London Waterloo Station acts as a dynamic node connecting you with London and beyond. With a dedicated taxi rank and a close-knit relationship with London's extensive bus and Underground services, getting around is both straightforward and efficient. Waterloo Underground station is served by several lines, including the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines making your planning effortless.

For those looking to explore the city on two wheels, Santander Cycle hire bikes are available nearby. The station's proximity to the South Bank makes it an inviting starting point for a leisurely stroll or cycle along the riverside for a touch of culture and picturesque views.

Destinations to Explore from London Waterloo

If you're planning a journey, London Waterloo connects you with an array of popular destinations. Whether it’s a quick trip to nearby Clapham Junction, a family day out to Wimbledon, or a scenic journey further afield to Southampton Central, the station offers a gateway to adventure.

The list of travel options is extensive, with trips to Guildford, Richmond, and Basingstoke providing just a glimpse of the destinations accessible from Waterloo.

Conclusion: Beyond the Commute

London Waterloo isn’t just a station; it’s a launchpad for discovery and experience. Whether you're on a daily commute or embarking on a new journey, the station's unparalleled facilities and connectivity ensure that every trip is a pleasure. As you step into this vibrant hub, you become part of a tradition of travel and exploration, stretching back over a century and continuing to evolve with the city around it.

So, whether you are buying tickets online or from the station, you can be assured of a seamless experience at London Waterloo. It’s not just where journeys end and begin, but where memories are made and adventures are born. Come, explore; the world from London Waterloo awaits you!

Everything you need to know about Cheltenham Spa Station

Exploring Cheltenham Spa Train Station: A Gateway to Adventure

Nestled in the heart of Gloucestershire, Cheltenham Spa train station stands as a bustling hub, seamlessly connecting travelers to various destinations across the UK. Whether you're embarking on a journey to the vibrant streets of London Paddington or the historic charm of Bath Spa, Cheltenham Spa station offers an array of facilities to ensure a convenient and pleasant travel experience.

A Hub of Facilities and Amenities

Cheltenham Spa is equipped with a robust ticketing service, featuring both manned ticket offices and machines for purchasing and collecting tickets with ease. The ticket office is open from 06:15 to 20:15 on weekdays, slightly altering times over the weekend. Furthermore, smartcards can be issued at this station, though they lack on-site validators.

Accessibility is made a priority at this station, with step-free access to platforms via ramps, and there are provisions for customers needing extra assistance with a dedicated help point. For those carrying heavy luggage, it's important to note that there isn’t a luggage storage facility available. However, customer service staff are on hand from 05:00 to 01:00 daily to assist whenever needed.

Parking is handled by APCOA Parking, offering 286 spaces, 17 of which are wheelchair-accessible. Though the car park is monitored, it doesn't feature CCTV. The rates are reasonable and include a variety of payment plans to suit different needs. Meanwhile, cyclists can benefit from 134 cycle storage spaces and hire services offered by Compass Holidays.

Seamless Connectivity Beyond the Platform

Cheltenham Spa station serves as a critical intersection for various modes of transport besides trains, easing the transition from rail to other transport forms. In case of rail service disruptions, a replacement service is available just in front of the station. Taxis are conveniently stationed at the entrance, though an accessible taxi requires a staff member's help to arrange.

For avid cyclists, bike hire is operational on the platform, offering excellent routes and experiences through Compass Holidays. While those keen on exploring surroundings can access local bus services, with comprehensive onwards travel information available to download in a printable format.

Where to Next? Popular Train Journeys from Cheltenham Spa

Cheltenham Spa provides excellent connectivity for those seeking inspiration for their next adventure. From here, popular train routes include travels to vibrant cities such as London Paddington, or head north to bustling Birmingham New Street. Holidaymakers can venture towards the idyllic Bath Spa, or those with a bit of wanderlust can enjoy the diverse culture of Cardiff Central. Even destinations like Bristol Temple Meads and Gloucester are easily reached from this well-connected station.

Your Cheltenham Spa Experience Awaits

With its convenient location and extensive facilities, Cheltenham Spa train station is more than just a departure point—it's a starting line for countless journeys, each filled with potential and promise. Whether you’re a seasoned commuter or a first-time visitor, this station ensures a smooth start to your travel experience. So why wait? Plan your visit, book your tickets, and step into your next adventure from Cheltenham Spa station, where every journey begins with comfort and convenience.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from London Waterloo