Is Plymouth in Cornwall?

No, it is in Devon, near the Cornish border.

How far is it from Exeter?

It is about 70 km southwest of Exeter.

Are there direct trains?

Yes, there are direct services from Swindon.

Yes, the motorway network makes it very accessible.

What is the best time to travel?

Avoid the morning and evening rush hours on the M5.

Swindon

Plymouth

Train Driving

Swindon to Plymouth

Updated: 31 May 2026

Plymouth is a major port city in Devon, accessible from Swindon via train to Plymouth station. By car, the journey covers approximately 250 km via the M4, M5, and A38, taking roughly 3 hours. Plymouth is famous for its maritime history and the Hoe.

Total Distance: 250 km driving distance, 220 km straight-line distance.

Fastest Way

Driving, assuming no significant traffic on the M5.

Cheapest Way

Train booked in advance via the Trainline or operator websites.

Compare Swindon to Plymouth Routes

	Train Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	3 hours	3 hours
Avg Price	£40 - £100	£40 - £60 (fuel)
Operator	Great Western Railway	N/A
Route	Swindon to Plymouth.	M4, M5, and A38.
Tip	Direct trains are available and very convenient.	The A38 is the primary route; watch for traffic near Exeter.

Travel Tips

Rail Connections
Plymouth station is a major hub; check your platform carefully.
Driving
Use the A38 to travel through Devon.
Local Transport
Plymouth is a very walkable city.
Booking
Book train tickets at least 12 weeks ahead for the best prices.
Comfort
Bring comfortable walking shoes for the waterfront.

Safety Tips

Station Safety
Keep your belongings secure at busy stations.
Driving
Check your tire pressure before a long motorway drive.
Night Travel
Stick to well-lit main roads when walking at night.
Emergency
Keep a list of emergency contacts in your wallet.