How long is the drive?

Approximately 4.5 hours without traffic.

Which motorway is best?

The M5 is the primary route into the South West.

National Express operates, but it takes significantly longer than trains.

Yes, it is generally considered a safe city for tourists.

Kettering

Plymouth

Train Driving

Kettering to Plymouth

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Kettering to Plymouth covers approximately 400 km. You can travel by train via London St Pancras and London Paddington, or drive via the M1 and M5 motorways. Train travel typically takes 5 hours, while driving depends heavily on traffic around Bristol. This route connects the East Midlands to the historic naval city of Plymouth. Expect scenic views of the Somerset levels as you approach the South West.

Total Distance: 400 km driving, 320 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving, provided there is no congestion on the M5.

Cheapest Way

Train booked 12 weeks in advance via Advance tickets.

Compare Kettering to Plymouth Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	4 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	60-150 GBP	50-80 GBP fuel
Operator	East Midlands Railway and GWR	N/A
Route	Kettering to St Pancras, transfer to Paddington, then direct to Plymouth.	M1 south, M25, M4, and M5 motorway.
Tip	Book your GWR ticket in advance to save significantly on walk-up fares.	Avoid the M5 near Bristol during Friday afternoon peak hours.

Travel Tips

Advance Booking
Always book train tickets at least 8 weeks early for the best prices.
Railcard
Use a Network Railcard to save one-third on off-peak fares.
Traffic Apps
Use Waze or Google Maps to monitor M5 traffic before departing.
Luggage
Keep luggage light if transferring between London stations.
Seat Selection
Reserve a window seat on the right side for coastal views near Exeter.

Safety Tips

Motorway Safety
Take breaks every two hours on the long M5 drive.
Station Security
Keep your belongings in sight at London St Pancras.
Weather Awareness
Check for high winds on the A38 if driving into Devon.
Emergency Numbers
Save 999 for emergencies and 111 for non-urgent medical advice.