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London to Plymouth train ticket prices

Travelling from London to Plymouth by train? Find fares from as low as £36.80. 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

£36.80󰄽

On Sun 21 Jun

  • £47.20󰄽
    Mon15 Jun
  • £61.50󰄽
    Tue16 Jun
  • £51.10󰄽
    Wed17 Jun
  • £56.60󰄽
    Thu18 Jun
  • £38.30󰄽
    Fri19 Jun
  • £68.00󰄽
    Sat20 Jun
  • Sun21 Jun

London to Plymouth train timetable

Journey from London to Plymouth on the fastest train in 2h 52m, usually 3h 41m. Every day, 34 trains leave from London, starting at 06:00 and ending at 23:45. During Off-Peak Times from 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter and less crowded journey. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with us.

DepartsArrivesOperator

09:20

London Waterloo
4h 27m, 1 change

13:47

Plymouth
South Western Railway
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10:03

London Paddington
3h, Direct

13:03

Plymouth
Great Western Railway
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10:20

London Waterloo
4h 27m, 1 change

14:47

Plymouth
South Western Railway
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11:03

London Paddington
3h 10m, Direct

14:13

Plymouth
Great Western Railway
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11:20

London Waterloo
4h 27m, 1 change

15:47

Plymouth
South Western Railway
Find tickets
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London to Plymouth train tickets and times

Plan your journey from London 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 £36.80
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
191 miles (307km)
Journey time
2h 52m
First train
06:00
Last train
23:45
Frequency
34

Great Western Railway trains from London to Plymouth

By Daniel Clark | Updated June 9, 2026

How is the onboard experience from London to Plymouth? For a journey over three hours, you want to be assured of comfort and convenience, and thankfully Great Western Railway delivers!

First Class or Standard Class on Great Western Railway trains?

As the only operator running direct services from London to Plymouth, you’ll travel with Great Western Railway. So, your only choice is whether to buy budget-friendly Standard Class tickets, or upgrade to the luxury and comfort of a First Class experience.

Great Western Railways runs a practical and convenient Standard Class service. Passengers will have ample baggage space, complimentary Wi-Fi, and optional seat reservations.
If you value extra spacious seats and quieter carriages, then First Class might be your best bet. The main perk on such a long journey might be the complimentary tea, coffee, biscuits, juices, and cakes available during your journey!

Will I find luggage space on Great Western Railway trains?

There’s no scrambling for luggage space with GWR: the operator is known to allocate generous space for passengers’ bags. Use overhead racks to store hand luggage and small bags, or place large suitcases in luggage racks at the end of each carriage.

Does GWR have free Wi-Fi onboard?

On your train to Plymouth, pass the time with fast, free Wi-Fi. Connect to ‘GWR WiFi’ by registering your details. Expect patches of the journey to vary in connectivity speed, but you’ll be able to surf the web happily for hours.

Train travel from London to Plymouth

Visiting one of Devon’s quirkiest coastal cities is better by train. The route to Plymouth is fast and stress-free on a direct route from London Paddington. From boarding the train to finding the world’s oldest commercial bakery, our local station secrets will help you make the most of your trip.

London Paddington: Getting to the Platform

A famous bear, leading accessibility features, and an abundance of coffee. Here’s what you need to know about starting your journey at Britain’s third-busiest station.

  • On the Tube: London Paddington is easy to reach on the London Underground, using the Bakerloo, District, Circle, Hammersmith & City, or Elizabeth lines. If you prefer to travel by bus, get to the station on dozens of routes, including the 46, 16, and 7.
  • Lounging around: Before boarding your train, relax in comfortable seating areas, or, if you’re travelling First Class, in London Paddington’s Lounge. Look out for the adorable statue of Paddington Bear, located near the exit to the Elizabeth Line, for a pre-departure photo op.
  • Coffee stop: With a three-hour train journey ahead, you might want to buy a coffee or some snacks at Paddington. Thankfully, you’ll have plenty of choice, from specialty lattes at Caffe Nero to healthy plant-rich meals at LEON. Buy a pack of Percy Pig sweets from M&S, another British icon to rival Paddington Bear!

Onboard trains from London to Plymouth

Head out of the Big Smoke and towards the South West coast. Experience national landscapes, quaint towns and cities, and finally a glimpse of the Channel on your journey west.

  • Key Landmarks: As you skirt the Cranborne Chase National Landscape, natural beauty will abound. Look out for Stourhead Estate in Wiltshire, then the stunning views of the Blackdown Hills National Landscape, East Devon National Landscape, and Haldon Forest. As you reach your destination, you’ll see Saltram Park, and views down to the coast.
  • The View Alert: For sea views and the best perspective on the East Devon National Landscape, choose a seat on the Left-Hand Side of the carriage (facing West).

Arriving at Plymouth

Between Central Park and the University of Plymouth, the station offers excellent access to the waterfront, as well as all Plymouth’s top landmarks.

  • Under the station: Arriving from London, you will likely disembark at platform 5, at the far side of the station. The station’s exit, on the south side, is accessible via a subway or lifts.
  • Arrival in Plymouth: Once you leave the station, keep walking south to city centre attractions like The Box, Royal Parade, and Plymouth Gin Distillery. Walk for only 25 minutes from the station to reach the coast.
  • Buses and taxis: Fast connections from the station are reliable too, with Plymouth Citybus the main local bus service provider around the coastal city. With 200 bus routes around Plymouth and beyond, you’ll be sure to find a service to where you need to be next.

London to Plymouth train travel guide

Taking the train from London to Plymouth is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from London, you can arrive at Plymouth in just 2h 52m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from London to Plymouth?

The average ticket fare from London to Plymouth is about £36.80, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.

What is the best way to travel from London to Plymouth by train?

Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare London to Plymouth train prices for the best deals and book in advance for discounts. The TrainPal app offers real-time updates and ticket booking options. Explore the TrainPal app and start planning your journey!

What is the fastest train from London to Plymouth?

The fastest train journey time from London to Plymouth is 2h 52m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.

Are there direct trains from London to Plymouth?

No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from London to Plymouth. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.

Is it worth taking a train from London to Plymouth?

Yes, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.

How far in advance can I book my train ticket?

Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

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

While London to Plymouth trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from London to Plymouth is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.

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 London to Plymouth trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from London to Plymouth are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company

How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?

Transferring between train stations in the UK can be effortless with some planning. If your travel requires a transfer, review your ticket and journey details for specific transfer instructions. Major stations typically feature clear signage and helpful staff. Additionally, TrainPal Train Journey Planner offers comprehensive transfer details.

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 have access to various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard allows students to save up to 1/3 on most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy comparable savings. Both types of Railcards are available for purchase online or at train stations and are valid for one year, making them a valuable option 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 London to Plymouth route?

The route from London to Plymouth is operated by CrossCountry. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.

Essential onboard rules and facilities

  • Luggage

    Each passenger is permitted to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage at no extra cost. This can include a combination of items such as suitcases, backpacks, and satchels.

  • Bicycle

    Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted. We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.

  • Children

    Children under 5 typically travel for free. A 50% discount applies to children aged 5 to 15. Additionally, those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for a 50% discount with a 16-17 Saver Railcard.

  • Pets

    Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier. Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • Passenger assistance

    For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.

How to buy cheap London 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?

For information on claiming Delay Repay compensation due to a delayed, cancelled, or strike-affected service, consult our delays and disruptions page or our UK rail strike page. These pages also provide live service updates.

* 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.