How to get to Minehead or Butlins Minehead from Bristol on the Train

Bristol is rather spoilt for day trips and coastline, with Weston Super Mare just a 15 to 30 minute ride on the train.

But sometimes it’s nicer to get a little bit further down the coast line and Minehead is the perfect location for a day out. It has sandy beaches, rocky areas, a harbour, seaside town and of course Butlins if you have the stamina.

If you don’t drive, it’s still really easy to get to Minehead by public transport. With a Family and Friends Railcard, we managed it in two hours and single fare for one adult and child of £16.65. Of course, with some more planning and advance booking it’s possible to reduce this fare slightly.

Our journey break down was:

Train from Bristol Temple Meads to Taunton – Duration 30 mins £8.25 adult, £2.40 single
Tip: Trains run very regularly to Taunton, but be aware some journeys take 30 minutes and others take an hour and a half. Check before boarding.

Bus 28 from rear of Taunton railway station to Minehead Butlins – Duration 1hr 20mins £4 adult, £2 single.
Tip: The 28 runs every half an hour at peak time and is a lovely journey through the Somerset countryside. Go straight to the rear of the station for a sheltered stop with plenty of seating. Be aware the bus only goes to Bishops Lydeard station when trains are running.