Is there a direct train?

No, you must change trains in London.

How long is the drive?

Approximately 7 hours 30 minutes under normal conditions.

No, there are no tolls on this specific route.

Which station in Plymouth?

Plymouth Railway Station is the main hub.

Is it better to drive or train?

Driving offers more flexibility, while trains are more relaxing.

Walsingham

Plymouth

Train Driving

Walsingham to Plymouth

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from the Norfolk countryside to the Devon coast covers approximately 520 km. The most efficient driving route utilizes the A1067 to Norwich, followed by the A11 and M11 towards London, eventually joining the M25 and M5. Rail travel requires a connection at London Liverpool Street to London Paddington via the Underground. Expect a total journey time of roughly 7 to 8 hours depending on traffic around the M25. This route transitions from the flat Fens of East Anglia to the rugged hills of the South West.

Total Distance: 520 km driving distance; 410 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via M5 is the fastest, taking approximately 7 hours 30 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Driving is generally cheaper for groups of two or more people.

Compare Walsingham to Plymouth Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	8 hours	7 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	110-250 GBP	80-120 GBP
Operator	Great Western Railway	N/A
Route	Norwich to London Liverpool St, transfer to Paddington, then to Plymouth	A1067, A11, M11, M25, M4, M5
Tip	Book tickets 12 weeks in advance for significant savings.	Avoid the M25 during rush hour between 07:00 and 09:00.

Travel Tips

Rail Transfers
Allow at least 60 minutes for the transfer between London Liverpool Street and Paddington.
Fuel Stops
Use motorway services on the M5 for reliable fuel and food options.
Booking
Use the Trainline app to monitor live updates for your connecting trains.
Parking
Plymouth city centre parking is limited; use the Drake Circus car park.
Traffic
Check Highways England for M25 congestion before departing.

Safety Tips

Fatigue
Take a 15-minute break every two hours when driving long distances.
Weather
Be prepared for sudden coastal winds when arriving in Plymouth.
Emergency
Keep a physical map in your car in case of GPS failure in rural Norfolk.
Valuables
Do not leave bags visible in your car when parked at service stations.