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Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth train ticket prices

Travelling from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth by train? Find fares from as low as £16.60. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest

£16.60󰄽

On Sun 16 Aug

  • £18.20󰄽
    Thu13 Aug
  • £21.00󰄽
    Fri14 Aug
  • £24.20󰄽
    Sat15 Aug
  • Sun16 Aug
  • £18.20󰄽
    Mon17 Aug
  • £18.20󰄽
    Tue18 Aug
  • £17.80󰄽
    Wed19 Aug

Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth train timetable

From Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth, take the fastest train in 1h 58m, typically 2h 4m. Daily, 27 trains depart from Bristol Temple Meads, with the first at 05:22 and the last at 23:48. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.

DepartsArrivesOperator

18:45

Bristol Temple Meads
2h 4m, Direct

20:49

Plymouth
CrossCountry
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18:57

Bristol Temple Meads
2h 46m, Direct

21:43

Plymouth
Great Western Railway
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19:50

Bristol Temple Meads
2h 1m, Direct

21:51

Plymouth
CrossCountry
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19:54

Bristol Temple Meads
2h 43m, 1 change

22:37

Plymouth
Great Western Railway
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20:45

Bristol Temple Meads
2h 5m, Direct

22:50

Plymouth
CrossCountry
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Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.

Price
From £16.60
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
101 miles (162km)
Journey time
1h 58m
First train
05:22
Last train
23:48
Frequency
27

CrossCountry vs Great Western Railway: Compare Direct Routes

By Daniel Clark | Updated June 9, 2026
For a direct journey from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth, choose between CrossCountry and Great Western Railway (GWR). Here’s a comparison to help you choose the best operator for your journey.

Train operators

Avg. duration

Departure station

Best for

Feature services

CrossCountry

1h 56m

Bristol Temple Meads

Fastest Direct Route, Frequent Services

Complimentary refreshments in First Class

Great Western Railway

2h 4m

Bristol Temple Meads

Comfort, First Class

Onboard dining

  • CrossCountry offers a practical onboard experience between Bristol and Plymouth, with free Wi-Fi, and comfortable seats as standard. This affordable operator has an extensive network linking key destinations in all corners of England, as well as routes into Scotland and Wales.
  • Great Western Railway is a premium carrier specialising in connections around the South West. Kick back in spacious seats, and connect to fast, free Wi-Fi; in First Class, benefit from a personalised service, including complimentary drinks, and a quieter travel environment.

Train travel from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth

Take the train to Plymouth to experience culture galore on the south coast. Follow our local station secrets for the best experience on your journey down from Bristol.

Bristol Temple Meads: Getting to the Platform

Travelling by train is easy from Bristol, with its numerous stations and excellent transport links. Bristol Temple Meads is the biggest and best-connected station in the south west. For services to Plymouth, you’ll typically depart from platforms 8 or 12.

  • Bus to Bristol Temple Meads: Take First Bus services from across Bristol to access Temple Meads efficiently. Passengers coming from the city centre can hop on a wide range of buses at Cabot Circus that offer a quick link to Temple Meads.
  • Refreshments before you board: Buy a coffee on the main concourse before you board from Costa Coffee or from Cafe Local on platform 4. If you’re looking for sweets or other snacks, head to WH Smith, where you’ll also be able to pick up magazines, books, and other travel essentials.

Onboard trains from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth

The journey from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth by train takes about two hours. You’ll take the same route whether you travel with CrossCountry or GWR. There’s no shortage of great views to see along the 100-miles route; here’s what we recommend you look out for.

  • Key Landmarks: The stretch of Devon coast between Dawlish and Teignmouth has to be one of the best coastal train routes in England. Enjoy spectacular views along Coryton Cove, as the track comes within metres of the sea: at high tide, the train might even get splashed!
  • The View Alert: To experience the best views of the Devon coast, choose a seat on the Left-Hand Side of the train (heading South).

Arriving at Plymouth

Your day out in Plymouth is better when you go by train. Arrive at Plymouth Station on North Road East, between University of Plymouth and Central Park. Want to head straight to the coast? You can stroll to the Royal Citadel in 25 minutes, or to Royal William Yard in around 40 minutes.
  • Plymouth Station accessibility: After arriving from Bristol, you can get from the station to the exit with fully step-free access. Toilets are available on platform 5, which is where CrossCountry services will typically arrive.
  • Around Plymouth and beyond: Continue your journey on Plymouth’s local bus network operated by Plymouth Bus. Board services outside the station’s main entrance, such as the number 70 to Devonport, or the number 34 to Princess Yachts. 

Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth train travel guide

The train journey from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Bristol Temple Meads, you can get to Plymouth in just 1h 58m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth?

Ticket prices from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth average around £16.60, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.

What is the best way to travel from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth by train?

Utilise the TrainPal app or website to its fullest potential. Our Train Journey Planner is a top-notch online tool for planning your trips. Just enter your departure and arrival cities or stations. Then, review timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and check for food supplies or other amenities. Find the best train route from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth.

What is the fastest train from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth?

The fastest train journey time from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth is 1h 58m. Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.

Are there direct trains from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth?

No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth. TrainPal Train Journey Planner will assist you in finding the best train route. Enter the origin or destination places and other relevant details, then click "Search" to find the most suitable route.

Is it worth taking a train from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth?

Yes, the train is always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.

How far in advance can I book my train ticket?

You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

Are Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.

How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?

It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.

Do Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.

How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?

Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.

What is the difference between Standard and First Class?

Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by train operator.

Other things you might be interested

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors can benefit from various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard offers students up to 1/3 off most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy similar savings. Both Railcards can be purchased online or at train stations and are valid for one year, providing great value for frequent travellers

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, the refund and exchange policies for train tickets vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. Advance Tickets are usually non-refundable but can sometimes be exchanged for a fee. Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets offer more generous refund and exchange options. Always check the terms and conditions of your ticket or visit UK train ticket types for specific details.

How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.

Which train companies operate the Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth route?

The train from Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth is operated by CrossCountry. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search results.

Essential onboard rules and facilities

  • Luggage

    You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.

  • Bicycle

    You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.

  • Children

    Discounts are available for young travellers based on age: Travellers under 5 usually travel free, children aged 5–15 get a 50% discount, and 16 to 17-year-olds can use a 16-17 Saver Railcard to get 50% off.

  • Pets

    Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • Passenger assistance

    Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.

How to buy cheap Bristol Temple Meads to Plymouth train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.

Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.
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Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

For step-by-step guidance on amending your journey or applying for a refund, please access our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

To claim compensation for a delay (Delay Repay): If your train was delayed, cancelled, or impacted by a strike, you can find live service updates and find out how to claim on our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page.

* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.