Plymouth to London Trains From £32.30*

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.

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.