A new direct coach service connecting Stroud with London will launch on a pilot basis this July, following strong public demand for a more affordable and practical alternative to rail travel.
GoStroud has announced six trial weekday services after a survey attracted significant interest from local residents seeking better access to the capital. The pilot will help assess demand ahead of a planned full service launch in September.
The coach will depart Cheapside, Stroud, at 6:00am, arriving at West Drayton in time to connect with the 8:02am Elizabeth Line service into central London. The return journey will leave West Drayton at 6:15pm, arriving back in Stroud shortly after 8:00pm.
The service is aimed not only at traditional commuters but also at people travelling for meetings, flexible working, cultural events, business opportunities and occasional trips to London. Fares start at levels that can work out at less than £30 return when multiple journeys are booked.
GoStroud has been founded by Tom and Rebecca MacMillan, who have lived in Stroud for more than a decade.
Tom MacMillan said: “People told us they wanted better access to London without the steep cost of current options. This July pilot is about testing whether we can make that work in practice. If enough people book, we’d love to move to a full launch in September and create a new way to travel between Stroud and London that benefits local people, businesses and the wider community.”
Rebecca MacMillan added: “As an improviser, I regularly travelled to London for performances, rehearsals and teaching. Over time, rising train fares have made those trips increasingly difficult to justify. We wanted to explore whether there was a better option that would make London more accessible again for people living in Stroud and the surrounding area.”
The coach will offer onboard WiFi, USB charging points, table and standard seating, and optional coffee and pastries available to pre-order. Additional refreshments will also be available onboard.
Once at West Drayton, passengers can access central London and destinations across the capital via the Elizabeth Line and wider Transport for London network.
Residents interested in supporting the trial are encouraged to book by Friday to help demonstrate demand and secure their preferred travel dates.
Pilot Service Details
Dates: 7, 8, 9 and 14, 15, 16 July 2026
Departure: Cheapside, Stroud GL5 2AD
Outbound: 6:00am departure from Stroud
Return: 6:15pm departure from West Drayton
Discount Code: CLUB10 for 10% off bookings of three or more journeys
Bookings: https://buytickets.at/gostroud
Enquiries: hello@gostroud.club
Telephone: Rebecca MacMillan – 07980 834334
