No, it is the county town of Somerset.

How far is it from Bristol?

It is about 60 km south of Bristol.

Are there direct trains?

Yes, there are direct services from Swindon.

Yes, the motorway network makes it very accessible.

What is the best time to travel?

Avoid the morning and evening rush hours on the M5.

Swindon

Taunton

Train Driving

Swindon to Taunton

Updated: 31 May 2026

Taunton is the county town of Somerset, accessible from Swindon via train to Taunton station. By car, the journey covers approximately 120 km via the M4 and M5, taking roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes. Taunton is a historic market town.

Total Distance: 120 km driving distance, 100 km straight-line distance.

Fastest Way

Driving, assuming no significant traffic on the M5.

Cheapest Way

Train booked in advance via the Trainline or operator websites.

Compare Swindon to Taunton Routes

	Train Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 30 mins	1 hour 30 mins
Avg Price	£20 - £50	£15 - £30 (fuel)
Operator	Great Western Railway	N/A
Route	Swindon to Taunton.	M4 and M5.
Tip	Direct trains are available and very convenient.	The M5 is the primary route; watch for traffic near Bristol.

Travel Tips

Rail Connections
Taunton station is well-connected to the rest of the South West.
Driving
Use the M5 to avoid the center of Bristol.
Local Transport
Taunton is a very walkable town.
Booking
Book train tickets at least 12 weeks ahead for the best prices.
Comfort
Bring comfortable walking shoes for the town center.

Safety Tips

Station Safety
Keep your belongings secure at busy stations.
Driving
Check your tire pressure before a long motorway drive.
Night Travel
Stick to well-lit main roads when walking at night.
Emergency
Keep a list of emergency contacts in your wallet.