Is there a direct train from Crawley to Plymouth?

No, you must change at London Paddington.

How long is the drive to Plymouth?

Usually 4 hours 15 minutes, but traffic on the A303 can add significant time.

What is the best way to get around Plymouth?

Walking is best for the center, and local buses are excellent for the suburbs.

Are there any tolls on this route?

No, there are no tolls on the A303 or M5 route.

Is Plymouth a safe city?

Yes, it is generally safe, but standard city precautions apply.

Crawley

Plymouth

Train Driving

Crawley to Plymouth

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Crawley to Plymouth is approximately 350 km. By train, you travel from Gatwick Airport to London Paddington, then take the Great Western Railway service to Plymouth. By car, the route follows the M23, M25, M3, and A303, or the M4 and M5 motorway. This journey is a long transit from the South East to the historic port city of Plymouth in Devon.

Total Distance: 350 km driving, 300 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving, provided there are no major delays on the A303 or M5.

Cheapest Way

Train, if booked in advance as an 'Advance' single ticket.

Compare Crawley to Plymouth Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 30 mins	4 hours 15 mins
Avg Price	70 - 150 GBP	50 - 80 GBP (fuel)
Operator	Great Western Railway	N/A
Route	Gatwick Airport to London Paddington, then GWR to Plymouth.	M23, M25, M3, A303, A30.
Tip	Book seats on the left-hand side of the train for coastal views near Dawlish.	The A303 can be very busy; allow extra time during peak holiday periods.

Travel Tips

Train Booking
Use the GWR website for the best deals on tickets to Plymouth.
Parking
Use the Drake Circus or Plymouth Hoe car parks for central access.
Walking
Plymouth city center is very compact and easy to explore on foot.
Local Transport
The city has a good bus network for reaching the outskirts.
Booking
Book your train tickets at least 4 weeks ahead for the lowest prices.

Safety Tips

Driving
The A303 can be dangerous; drive carefully and observe the speed limits.
City Safety
Like any large city, stay aware of your surroundings in the evening.
Emergency
Keep emergency contacts saved in your phone and know the location of the nearest police station.
Public Transport
Buses are safe and well-lit, making them a good option for travel.