Take the direct Taunton to London Paddington train in just around 1 hour and 39 minutes with Great Western Railway. On the way there, you'll travel through the gorgeous scenery of Somerset, a few miles south of famous Glastonbury. Your train will continue through Wiltshire and Berkshire, stopping at the major town of Reading, before crossing the M25 and entering the busy landscape of West London to arrive at Paddington Station.
Great Western Railway operates intercity trains from London Paddington to Oxford, Great Malvern, Cheltenham Spa, Bristol Temple Meads, Cardiff Central, Swansea, Plymouth, Exeter St Davids and Penzance. They offer local and regional services throughout the Thames Valley, South Wales and Somerset, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, and Devon and Cornwall. They also run the iconic Night Riviera sleeper service from London to Penzance.
Departing from Taunton
The fastest train from Taunton to London Paddington sets off from Taunton Station. You'll find the main entrance on Station Approach, just off the A3087. There's a taxi rank here, and bus stops are at the front and rear of the station. Two further stops are located just down Station Road, and buses to plenty of local destinations call at stops in the nearby town centre.
Great Western railway trains travel from here to Cardiff, Bristol Temple Meads, Reading, Plymouth, Paignton, Penzance and Exeter St Davids. Edinburgh Waverley, Glasgow Central, Aberdeen and Manchester Piccadilly are reachable on CrossCountry services.
Main stops
There are various stopping patterns on this journey. The fastest only calls at Reading, while the next-fastest stops at both Newbury and Reading.
A slower pattern will take in Castle Cary, Westbury, Pewsey, Bedwyn, Hungerford and Newbury. The slowest train travels a different route, calling at Bridgwater, Highbridge, Weston Super Mare, Weston Milton, Worle, Yatton, and beyond. The stops may vary depending on the time, train operators, and train routes.
Arriving at London Paddington
The cheapest train from Taunton to London Paddington delivers you quickly to Paddington Station. Situated on Praed Street, just north of Hyde Park, this Central London terminus is one of Britain's best-loved stations, having lent its name to the famous Paddington Bear character. Onward travel is easy, with several bus stops outside offering multiple routes to all over London, including many that run all night. The London Underground Bakerloo, Circle, District, Hammersmith & City, and Elizabeth Lines all serve this station.
The Great Western Railway travels from Paddington to the destinations listed above. The station was also recently upgraded to accommodate the new Elizabeth Line trains to Abbey Wood, Shenfield, London Heathrow Airport, Reading and Maidenhead. It is also possible to catch services to Heathrow Airport on the Heathrow Express.
Once you're in London, there's plenty to enjoy within minutes of the station. The vast Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens are a great place to spend some relaxed time, and a visit to the historic Kensington Palace is a must. Retail therapists will make a beeline for Marble Arch. Impressive in its own right, it also marks the western end of Oxford Street - every London shopper's favourite address!
Great Western Railway train classes
- Standard Class: Travel comfortably from Taunton to London Paddington affordably with Standard Class. You'll benefit from a reserved seat in Standard Class accommodation, plus access to the onboard Wi-Fi. Most services also offer food and drink for sale during the journey.
- First Class: You'll be able to enjoy lounge access at Cardiff, Paddington, Penzance and Truro. On the train, you get a wider seat with more legroom, plug and USB sockets, and enhanced Wi-Fi during the journey. Plus, if you're travelling during the week, you can book into eat a proper meal in the iconic Pullman dining car on certain services - a great railway experience to savour!
Great Western Railway train travel advice
When you're looking to buy cheap train tickets, make sure you find out if you can save using a Railcard. There are many different types for different groups of people, so you may be eligible for one. Check our Railcard Guide to find out!
- Luggage: The end of each carriage has a rack for larger items (up to 25 x 40 x 75 cm). There is also room for smaller items in the overhead shelves or under your seat. You shouldn't bring more than three items.
- Bicycles: Cycles are welcome on board, but there is limited space, so a bike reservation is strongly recommended. If you don't reserve a space, your bike may not be able to be carried.
- Children: Children get a great deal on Great Western. If your child is under 5, they can travel for nothing! If they're between 5 and 15, they'll get a full 50% off. If you're travelling with a little one, you'll need to fold your buggy and pop it in the luggage racks, and it's best to do this before you board. Changing facilities are available on all trains.
- Pets: You can take up to two pets with you on your train. Make sure dogs are kept on a lead. Other pets (and dogs without a lead) must be in a carrier. They can't sit on the seats and mustn't use space that other passengers could use. Be aware that only assistance dogs will be allowed into the Pullman dining car.
- Passenger Assist: You should book at least two hours in advance of boarding if you require assistance to complete your travel. You can do this via phone or online.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.