Is Sunderland a good place to visit?

Yes, it has a rich industrial history and beautiful coastal scenery.

How do I get from Newcastle to Sunderland?

The Tyne and Wear Metro takes about 25 minutes.

No, there are no tolls on this route.

Is the train reliable?

Yes, the LNER service is generally reliable, but check for engineering works.

What is the best way to travel?

The train is more comfortable for such a long distance.

Lostwithiel

Sunderland

Train Driving

Lostwithiel to Sunderland

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Lostwithiel to Sunderland covers 650 km, reaching the North East coast. By train, you will travel via London, taking the LNER service from King's Cross to Newcastle, then a short Metro or local train to Sunderland. Driving involves the A30, M5, M1, and A1(M), a long but scenic route through the spine of England. Expect a travel time of 7 to 8 hours. This route takes you from the far south-west to the industrial heritage of the North East.

Total Distance: 650 km driving distance, 550 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving, taking approximately 7 hours 30 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Train, if booked as an Advance ticket well in advance.

Compare Lostwithiel to Sunderland Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	7 hours 45 mins	7 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	100-220 GBP	90-140 GBP fuel
Operator	Great Western Railway and LNER	Personal Vehicle
Route	Lostwithiel to London Paddington, transfer to King's Cross, then to Newcastle and Sunderland.	A30, M5, M42, M1, A1(M) into Sunderland.
Tip	The Tyne and Wear Metro is the easiest way to get from Newcastle station to Sunderland.	The A1(M) is a major artery; expect heavy traffic near Leeds and Newcastle.

Travel Tips

Metro Travel
Use the Tyne and Wear Metro for easy travel between Newcastle and Sunderland.
North East Weather
The North East can be windy; bring a windproof jacket.
Train Booking
Book your LNER tickets early to avoid high prices on the day of travel.
Driving Breaks
Take regular breaks on the A1(M) to stay alert during the long drive.
Local Pubs
Sunderland has a great selection of traditional pubs; ask locals for recommendations.

Safety Tips

Motorway Safety
The A1(M) can be challenging in bad weather; drive with caution.
Personal Belongings
Keep your bags secure in busy train stations like London King's Cross.
Emergency Services
Know the location of the nearest hospital in Sunderland.
Night Driving
Avoid driving the final stretch of the A1(M) at night if you are tired.