On Saturday morning, the 10.18am train departing Bristol Temple Meads platform 12 appeared to be a regular departure.
But this was a historic moment: the first direct train between Bristol Temple Meads and Oxford in more than two decades.
For the time being, just two return Saturday trips are in operation, with the quickest route taking one hour and 11 minutes between the two cities.
The new trial services, the first since 2003, will last until December.
Bath Spa, Chippenham, and Swindon are all stops on the route between Bristol and Oxford.
GWR managing director Mark Hopwood stated, “We’re always searching for new methods to generate revenue and improve connectivity.
“Changing customer patterns since Covid have provided a clear opportunity for us to expand our leisure offering and the Bristol-Oxford route is one which offers real potential.”
Matt Griffith, director of policy at Business West, added: “A direct route connecting Oxford, Swindon, Bath, and Bristol would be a significant boost to the region and the advantages of living and doing business here.
“Having direct link between some of the world’s greatest institutions, corporations, and tourist attractions is a huge plus that we believe will be very popular.
“We hope this new ‘brain train’ service will grow from strength to strength and make residents, business and investors really excited about all that the great western region has to offer.”
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