These ‘idyllic’ Wiltshire towns could get direct trains to London next year

Five years ago, the last direct train ran from Bristol Temple Meads through to London Waterloo, meaning towns including Trowbridge and Bradford on Avon lost their direct links to the capital.

Now, a campaign group is pushing for routes to these scenic Wiltshire locations to be reinstated – and it looks like the rail bosses are listening. 

Following a passionate petition from the West Wiltshire Rail User Group, plus backing from council members and local MPs, South Western Railway (SWR) has launched a consultation asking passengers what they would like to see changed about current services.

The consultation will help to inform the 2027 SWR timetable.

What do campaigners want?

Transport campaigner Graham Ellis explained that reconnecting two existing services would benefit locations including Trowbridge and Bradford on Avon, plus other smaller stations such as Keynsham and Melksham.

‘There is a train which runs from Bristol to Salisbury and we’re simply saying connect that up with the train from Salisbury to London,’ he told the BBC.

Wiltshire Council’s cabinet member for highways, Martin Smith, said he ‘would strongly welcome’ the introduction of a direct service to London.

South West Wiltshire MP Dr Andrew Murrison seconded the call, telling the Wiltshire Times: ‘Trowbridge needs to attract high quality employers and compete with areas that this government is more interested in.’

Why visit Trowbridge and Bradford-on-Avon?

The direct line wouldn’t just open up opportunities for locals; it might tempt in daytrippers from the capital too.

Trowbridge is a quiet but quaint town, with more listed buildings than almost any other town in Wiltshire.

The Shires Shopping Centre prioritises small businesses over big chains and there’s a number of independent coffee shops and cafes on the high street.

Bradford-on-Avon is perhaps the bigger draw, with tourists on social media calling it ‘beautiful’, ‘idyllic’ and ‘gorgeous’. 

@uktravel

Just 2 hours from London by train, this town feels like such a hidden gem ✨ Wander through the charming streets, walk along the Kennet & Avon Canal, and take in those beautiful honey-coloured buildings. It’s the perfect place for a slow, scenic day. Stop by The Bridge Tea Rooms for a classic afternoon tea, and if you’re there on a Sunday, don’t miss the roast at the Canal Tavern, it’s honestly so good 🤍 📍Bradford-on-Avon #uktravel #uktravelblogger #bradfordonavon

♬ Dreamchaser – Josh Kramer

The honey-coloured Cotswold stone architecture, plus winding River Avon, makes the market town reminiscent of nearby Bath (just an 11-minute train away), albeit on a smaller scale. The Catholic Church alone looks ready for a postcard.

Again, you’re spoilt for choice with independent eateries. A visit to the Bridge Tea Rooms is an absolute must for Instagram-worthy pictures. 

There’s also plenty to see for history buffs, from the medieval Tithe Barn to the dedicated Bradford on Avon Museum. 

We won’t know for certain if the rail routes will be reconnected until later this year, but a SWR spokesperson said every suggestion ‘will be carefully reviewed as we balance enhancing connectivity and meeting demand’.

‘Responses will be provided through the formal consultation process at the appropriate time,’ they added.

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