Great Yarmouth
Great Yarmouth
Plymouth
Plymouth
Train Driving

Great Yarmouth to Plymouth

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Great Yarmouth to Plymouth is one of the longest in the UK, covering nearly 480 kilometers. By train, you will travel via London, requiring a transfer between Liverpool Street and Paddington before heading to Plymouth. Driving involves taking the A47, M11, M25, and the full length of the M5. Plymouth is a historic port city known for its maritime heritage. Expect a total travel time of eight hours by rail.

Total Distance: 480 km driving distance, 420 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving, provided you avoid peak traffic hours.
Cheapest Way
Train, if booked well in advance using a Railcard.
Compare Great Yarmouth to Plymouth Routes
Train
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 8 hours 6 hours 30 mins
Avg Price £120 - £250 £90 - £140 in fuel
Operator Greater Anglia and Great Western Railway N/A
Route Great Yarmouth to London Liverpool St, transfer to Paddington, then to Plymouth. A47 to M11, M25, and M5.
Tip Book an Advance ticket to avoid the high cost of walk-up fares. The M5 can be very slow near Exeter; check traffic before departing.
Travel Tips
  • London Transfer
    Use the Elizabeth Line for a faster transfer between Liverpool Street and Paddington.
  • Parking
    Use the city center car parks for easy access to the waterfront.
  • Booking
    Book your train tickets at least 10 weeks in advance.
  • Navigation
    Use a GPS to navigate the M5 motorway effectively.
  • Comfort
    Bring a book or entertainment for the long train journey.
Safety Tips
  • Road Safety
    The M5 is a long motorway; take regular breaks.
  • Station Safety
    Keep your luggage secure during the London transfer.
  • Emergency
    Dial 999 for any urgent assistance.
  • Night Travel
    Stick to well-lit areas when walking in Plymouth at night.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a direct train?
    No, you must change in London.
  • How long is the drive?
    Typically 6.5 to 7.5 hours.
  • Is Plymouth worth visiting?
    Yes, it has a rich maritime history.
  • What is the best way to travel?
    Train is more relaxing, driving is more direct.
  • Are there tolls?
    No, there are no tolls on this route.
Quick Info
  • From Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, United Kingdom
  • To Plymouth, Devon, United Kingdom
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Summer for visiting the historic Barbican and Plymouth Sound.

Things to Do in Plymouth
1
The Barbican
A historic area with narrow streets, shops, and the Mayflower Steps.
2
Plymouth Hoe
A famous waterfront park with views of the Sound and Smeaton's Tower.
3
National Marine Aquarium
The largest aquarium in the UK. It is a great family attraction.
4
Royal William Yard
A historic naval victualling yard now filled with restaurants and bars.
Tags
Great Yarmouth to Plymouth train to Plymouth driving to Devon A47 to M5 traveling to Plymouth UK rail travel Norfolk to Plymouth Plymouth transport guide