| Destination | Distance | Transport | Rough cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bath | ~35 miles | Train ~45 min (GWR) | Train from ~£15 return; Roman Baths from ~£20 adult | History, couples, culture |
| Bristol | ~40 miles | Train ~45 min (GWR) | Train from ~£15 return; SS Great Britain from ~£20 | Families, culture, harbourside |
| Oxford | ~35 miles | Train ~50 min (GWR) | Train from ~£15 return; colleges free to walk | Culture, couples, students |
| Stonehenge | ~25 miles | Car or tour bus | Entry from ~£25 adult (book ahead) | History, all ages |
| Cotswolds (Cirencester, Burford) | ~25–40 miles | Car (train to Kemble) | Free to explore; parking varies | Couples, walkers, photography |
| Lacock | ~15 miles | Car | Village free; Abbey from ~£16 adult (NT) | Families, film fans (Harry Potter) |
| Avebury | ~25 miles | Car | Stone circle free; museum from ~£11 | History, walkers |
| Swindon & Cricklade Railway | ~8 miles | Car or bus | From ~£8 child, ~£14 adult | Families, train enthusiasts |
| Marlborough | ~25 miles | Car | Free to explore; parking ~£2–3 | Couples, shoppers, Savernake walks |
Source: National Rail, venue websites
By train
GWR runs direct services from Swindon to Bath, Bristol Temple Meads, and Oxford. London Paddington is about an hour. Check National Rail for current times and fares. Our guides: Swindon to London, Swindon to Bristol, Swindon to Bath, Swindon to Oxford, Swindon to Cardiff.
By car
The M4 gives quick access west to Bristol and east towards London. The A419 runs to Cirencester and the Cotswolds. Stonehenge, Avebury, and Lacock are best reached by car. Parking at Stonehenge and Lacock is managed by English Heritage and the National Trust. Many day trips are easier by car – if you need to hire one, you can compare car hire rates.
Family-friendly options
The Swindon and Cricklade Railway is nearby and popular with families. Bath has the Roman Baths and Family Museum. Bristol has We the Curious science centre and the harbourside. Lacock Abbey features in Harry Potter films. Roves Farm near Swindon is a good local option. For bigger days out, Warwick Castle, Alton Towers, and Cadbury World are all within about 1–2 hours' drive – you can often save by booking tickets in advance.
Marlborough
Marlborough is a market town about 25 miles south, with a broad high street, independent shops, and cafés. Savernake Forest is nearby for walks. Reach it by car via the A346 or A4.
Planning
Book train tickets in advance for cheaper fares. Stonehenge and major attractions often need pre-booked slots. Check opening times and any seasonal closures.
Compare attraction tickets
Save on Warwick Castle, Alton Towers, Cadbury World and more – often cheaper than gate prices when you book ahead.
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Deals & VouchersTrain times and fares
Check National Rail for current Swindon departures to Bath, Bristol, Oxford, and London.
Plan your journeyInformation correct as of 10 March 2026. Train times, fares, and attraction opening hours change. Check National Rail and venue websites before you travel.