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Plymouth to London train ticket prices
€35.28
On Thu 03 Sep
Plymouth to London train timetable
Travelling from Plymouth to London, the fastest train takes 2h 59m with an average travel time of 4h 29m. With 65 daily trains, the first departs at 04:54 and the last at 23:59. Off-Peak hours begin at 09:30 on weekdays, and all-day Off-Peak on weekends and bank holidays. Keep informed of live train status, times, delays, and cancellations with us.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
04:54 Plymouth | 3h 41m, Direct | 08:35 London Paddington | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
04:54 Plymouth | 5h 1m, 2 change | 09:55 Vauxhall | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
05:25 Plymouth | 4h 55m, 1 change | 10:20 London Waterloo | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
05:32 Plymouth | 3h 49m, Direct | 09:21 London Paddington | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
05:32 Plymouth | 4h 54m, 3 change | 10:26 Vauxhall | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
Plymouth to London train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Plymouth to London 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.
Great Western Railway trains from Plymouth to London
Is GWR First Class worth the upgrade?
What is the GWR Standard Class experience like?
Standard Class is modern, practical, and well-suited to most travellers. Plug sockets are available at many seats, and luggage storage is thoughtfully integrated throughout the carriage. While naturally busier than First Class, it remains comfortable for the full journey.
How much luggage space is available on board?
GWR trains are designed for long-distance travel, so luggage provision is robust. Overhead racks accommodate smaller bags, while larger suitcases can be stored in dedicated racks near carriage doors. There is also under-seat space for compact items. Cycle spaces are available but must be reserved in advance.
Train travel from Plymouth to London
Covering around 191 miles, this route also includes one of the most scenic coastal stretches in England, particularly along the South Devon coastline near Dawlish.
Departure from Plymouth
Plymouth station serves as a key transport hub for Devon, linking regional buses, taxis, and long-distance rail in one central location.
Specific transport links
- Regional bus connections: Services including the 12, 33, and 50 stop directly outside the station.
- Scenic local routes: The 25 bus provides a circular journey linking key attractions such as Plymouth Hoe and the Barbican.
Station layout
- Main platforms: Long-distance GWR services to London depart from Platforms 5–7; platform allocation can vary, so always check the live departure boards.
- Concourse access: Platforms 3 and 4 are closest to the main entrance, while the others are accessed via a subway with lifts for step-free travel.
Pre-departure essentials
Inside the station, you’ll find a WHSmith for travel essentials and reading material, alongside Costa Coffee for quick coffee and meal deals. For something more substantial, nearby independent outlets just outside the station often provide better value and quality.
Onboard trains from Plymouth to London
The journey spans around 3 hours and 20 minutes, with trains reaching speeds of up to 125 mph. Along the way, passengers are treated to a mix of coastal and countryside scenery, making the trip feel far shorter than the distance suggests.
The scenic side
Key landmarks
- Dawlish coastline: Waves crash dramatically against the sea wall here, making it one of the most photographed railway stretches in the UK.
- Exeter Cathedral: Visible near Exeter St Davids, its twin Norman towers stand out clearly above the city skyline.
Arriving in London Paddington
Located on the western edge of central London, London Paddington offers seamless connections to the Underground, buses, and taxis, with services within minutes of stepping off the train.
The correct exit
- Main concourse (Praed Street): Follow signs towards the central exit for direct access to shops, hotels, and Underground lines, including Bakerloo, Circle, and District.
- Canalside exit (Paddington Central): Head towards the rear of the station for a quieter exit near offices, restaurants, and scenic canal walks.
- Taxi rank access: Located above platform level, accessible via escalators in the main concourse, offering traditional black cabs without long queues.
- Underground connections: Clearly signposted throughout the station, with multiple entry points depending on your chosen line.
Onward travel
- The Tube: Use the Elizabeth Line for fast east–west travel across London, or the Bakerloo Line for direct access to Oxford Circus and the West End.
- Local buses: Routes such as the 23 and 36 depart from stops near Praed Street, connecting to key areas including Marylebone and Victoria.
- National Rail links: Paddington also connects to Heathrow Express services, providing a fast route to Heathrow Airport in around 15 minutes.
- Cycling options: Santander Cycles docking stations are located nearby, offering a flexible option for short city journeys.
Walkability
Paddington itself is well-equipped with shops, cafes, and hotels, making it a convenient base. However, central attractions such as Soho or Covent Garden are about a 40–50-minute walk away. Most travellers prefer using the Tube for efficiency, with journeys into the West End taking under 10 minutes.
Related travel guides
Why book Plymouth to London trains with TrainPal?
Why book with TrainPal vs Trainline?
Unlike Trainline, TrainPal charges no booking fees on any route. On top of that, TrainPal's Split Ticket feature automatically divides your journey into multiple ticket segments, saving up to 50% compared to buying a single through ticket. Train fares from Plymouth to London start from just €35.28 on TrainPal.
Is TrainPal cheaper than buying direct?
TrainPal is often cheaper than buying direct. We don't charge any booking fees, and our Split Ticketing technology searches for the lowest fare combination across your entire journey—something train operator websites don't offer. Plus, we compare prices across multiple operators (e.g., CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, South Western Railway on the Plymouth to London route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.
Plymouth to London train travel guide
Travelling by train from Plymouth to London is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Plymouth, you can reach London in just 2h 59m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Plymouth to London?
Ticket prices from Plymouth to London average around €35.28, 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.
How do I find the best train route from Plymouth to London?
What is the fastest train from Plymouth to London?
The fastest train journey time from Plymouth to London is 2h 59m . 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 Plymouth to London?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Plymouth to London. 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 Plymouth to London?
Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
To get the best price on UK train tickets, it is essential to book as early as you can. Train operators generally release their cheapest Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of the travel date, making early booking the most effective way to secure a lower fare.
Check timetables and during the journey
Are Plymouth to London trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Plymouth to London 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?
Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.
Do Plymouth to London trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Plymouth to London 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?
Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.
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
Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?
Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.
Which train companies operate the Plymouth to London route?
The Plymouth to London route is operated by CrossCountry. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the results.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
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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.
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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.
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Pets
Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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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 Plymouth to London train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
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Your train was disrupted?
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* 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.
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