Is there a direct train from Torrington to Bristol?

No, Torrington does not have a railway station; you must travel to Barnstaple first.

How long is the drive to Bristol?

It typically takes 2 hours and 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions.

What is the best road to take?

The A361 North Devon Link Road is the primary route connecting to the M5.

Are there tolls on this route?

No, there are no tolls on the A361 or the M5 motorway.

Can I take a bus the whole way?

Yes, but it involves multiple changes and takes significantly longer than driving.

Torrington

Bristol

Train Driving

Torrington to Bristol

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Torrington to Bristol covers approximately 160 kilometers. Driving is the most direct method, utilizing the A361 North Devon Link Road to join the M5 motorway at Junction 27. Alternatively, you can take a local bus to Barnstaple station and catch a Great Western Railway service. The drive typically takes 2 hours and 30 minutes depending on traffic near Taunton. This route transitions from the rural landscapes of North Devon to the urban hub of Bristol. Expect heavy congestion during peak hours on the M5.

Total Distance: 160 km driving distance; 135 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the A361 and M5 is the fastest, taking roughly 2.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective if traveling with more than one person.

Compare Torrington to Bristol Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	3 hours 45 mins	2 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	45-70 GBP	25-35 GBP
Operator	Great Western Railway	Personal Vehicle
Route	Bus to Barnstaple, train to Exeter St Davids, then train to Bristol Temple Meads.	A361 to M5 Junction 27, then north to Bristol.
Tip	Book tickets in advance via the GWR app to secure cheaper Advance fares.	Avoid the M5 during Friday afternoon rush hour to save significant time.

Travel Tips

Advance Booking
Always book train tickets at least two weeks early to avoid peak pricing.
Traffic Awareness
Check the Highways England website for M5 incidents before departing.
Parking
Use the Park and Ride services in Bristol to avoid expensive city center parking.
Local Bus
The Stagecoach 5B service connects Torrington to Barnstaple for rail connections.
Off-Peak Travel
Travel between 10:00 and 15:00 to avoid the worst of the commuter traffic.

Safety Tips

A361 Safety
The A361 has several overtaking lanes; use them cautiously as speeds are high.
Emergency Numbers
Keep 999 saved for emergencies and 101 for non-emergency police assistance.
Weather
Devon roads can be prone to fog; ensure your headlights are functional.
Vehicle Check
Check your tire pressure and oil levels before starting the long drive.