Bikes on public transport
Railways
Thames Trains
Bicycles are allowed on Thames Trains services on weekdays, except for services which arrive at Paddington between 07.45 and 09.45 or which depart from Paddington between 16.30 and 18.30. This includes journeys that do not start or end at Paddington.
At other times, conductors will not allow cycles if there is not enough room for them and they could inconvenience other passengers.
Bicycles are carried free of charge. Ensure that your bicycle stays upright and does not obstruct gangways or doorways.
Facilities for cycles are provided at many stations, including: Bicester Town, Charlbury, Cholsey, Didcot Parkway, Earley, Goring and Streatley, Hanborough, Islip, Kingham, Oxford, Pangbourne and Reading.
First Great Western
Bike racks are available at all First Great Western stations. First Great Western will convey up to six cycles per train, for an advanced reservation fee of just £1 each per single journey. Without a reservation, the fee is £3 subject to space being available. Remember to attach a label to your cycle showing your name and address and the stations you are travelling between.
Virgin Trains
Cycles can be carried on the majority of Virgin services. Make an advance reservation (for a small charge) when you buy your ticket to ensure a place on your chosen train. To avoid delays when boarding, ask a member of the station staff to show you where to wait on the platform.
Buses
Bicycles are not permitted on any local bus routes, for safety reasons.
Oxford Bus Company
Bicycles are permitted on the Oxford Express coaches to central London and to Heathrow and Gatwick Airports, provided that they are in good condition. The service is free to London but there is a fee of £2 per bicycle to the airports. Bicycles are only carried if space is available in the luggage hold and at the discretion of the driver.
Stagecoach-Oxford
Bicycles can be carried on the Oxford Tube service to London, depending on available space in the luggage hold. Carriage is free.
Jetlink
Cycles are only permitted if dismantled and placed in a purpose-made container on routes to Stanstead and Luton Airports and to Cambridge.
Other Information
The Cycle Touring Club provides detailed information about taking a cycle on public transport.
