- Must visit
The Box
Plymouth’s main museum, gallery, and archive. It covers local art, natural history, and maritime stories in an impressive contemporary cultural hub.
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Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Canterbury to Plymouth
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Canterbury to Plymouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 24m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $37, and a flight costs an average of $233.
Distance: 236 miles (380 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$105 Average price | $63 Average price Cheapest | $293 Average price | $100 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 54m Average total duration Fastest 4h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 47m Average total duration 8h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 45m Average total duration 4h 45m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 8m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Canterbury to Plymouth is a bus with an average price of $63 (€51).
This is compared to other travel options from Canterbury to Plymouth:
A bus is $42 (€34) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Canterbury to Plymouth costing on average $105 (€86).
A bus is $229 (€187) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Canterbury to Plymouth costing on average $293 (€238).
The fastest way to travel from Canterbury to Plymouth is by train with an average journey time of 4h 24m.
Other travel options to Plymouth take longer:
Flight takes on average 4h 45m.
Bus takes on average 8h 17m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Canterbury and Plymouth including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Canterbury to Plymouth among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 44m sooner (4h 24m by train vs 5h 8m by car). Tickets start at around $105 (€86) compared to roughly $100 (€81) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Canterbury to Plymouth by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Canterbury to Plymouth trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway operates all trains services from Canterbury to Plymouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Canterbury to Plymouth.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Canterbury to Plymouth.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Canterbury to Plymouth.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Canterbury to Plymouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Canterbury to Plymouth run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $89 (€73) but you can travel from only $37 (€30) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:54, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 236 miles (380 km) distance in 4h 50m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $37 (€30)
Distance 236 miles (380 km) |
Average train duration 4h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $89 (€73) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 4h 50m |
First train 4:54 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 28 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $37 (€30)
Train companies: Great Western Railway from Canterbury to Plymouth trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Canterbury and Plymouth from $37 (€30). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 50m
Cheapest Price
$89 (€73)
Great Western Railway frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Plymouth
Things to do in Plymouth
Discover the best of Plymouth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Plymouth trip today.
- Must visit
National Marine Aquarium
Interactive aquarium on the waterfront with ocean habitats, conservation displays, and a huge tank. A popular family attraction with strong educational value.
- Recommended
Merchant's House
Tudor merchant’s residence in the Barbican, furnished to evoke historic domestic life. A compact museum ideal for understanding old Plymouth society.
- Must visit
Plymouth Hoe
Large waterfront parkland with sea views, monuments, and lawns. It is Plymouth’s classic promenade and a prime place to start exploring the city.
- Must visit
The Barbican
Historic harbourside quarter of cobbled lanes, old buildings, galleries, and maritime atmosphere. It is among Plymouth’s most characterful walking areas.
- Recommended
Armada Way
Broad city-centre avenue rebuilt after the Second World War. Shops, civic buildings, and public art make it useful for understanding modern Plymouth.
- Vegetarian
Devon Cream Tea
A classic Devon cream tea of scones, jam and clotted cream. In Devon, the cream goes on before the jam, making it a proud local ritual.
Pasty
A traditional South West pasty with beef, potato, swede and onion in pastry. Common across Devon and Cornwall and a familiar local grab-and-go meal.
- Gluten-free
Plymouth-Caught Seafood
Fresh fish landed from Plymouth's historic fishing port, often grilled or battered. The city's waterfront location makes local seafood a signature choice.
The Artillery Tower
Refined fine dining restaurant known for modern British tasting menus, polished service and a special occasion atmosphere near Plymouth Hoe.
Jacka Bakery
Long-established market café famous for generous breakfasts, sandwiches and casual local dining in Plymouth Market.
The Harbour Seafood Restaurant and Takeaway
Historic waterside pub in the Barbican serving seafood, local ales and hearty British dishes in a traditional, characterful setting.
British pound (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels are often cheaper than London, while dining and local buses are fairly priced for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis, and small change is fine in cafes.
Plymouth Citybus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.80
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city center
Plymouth Railway Station -> Plymouth City Centre
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Plymouth Citybus buses. Ask the driver for the cheapest valid fare if unsure.
- Plymouth has no tram or metro; most local public transport is by bus. Check live departures in the Plymouth Citybus app before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Canterbury to Plymouth
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Canterbury to Plymouth by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Plymouth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Canterbury to Plymouth can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $89 (€73), while the average price is around $105 (€86).
The train from Canterbury to Plymouth takes 4h 50m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Canterbury to Plymouth is 236 miles (380 km).
The first train from Canterbury to Plymouth leaves at 4:54 AM.
The last train from Canterbury to Plymouth leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Canterbury to Plymouth.
There is no direct train service currently available from Canterbury to Plymouth.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Canterbury to Plymouth.
The train station in Canterbury that goes to Plymouth is Canterbury West (CBW), which connects to Plymouth station (PLY).
The cheapest way to get from Canterbury to Plymouth is by bus, with a cost of around $37 (€30).
The train journey from Canterbury to Plymouth offers scenic views, especially as it travels through the picturesque countryside of the South of England, including parts of Kent, the rolling hills of Hampshire, and the stunning landscapes of Devon.
A day trip from Canterbury to Plymouth is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 50m each way. The distance is 236 miles (380 km), and there are 4 trips per day by train.
To explore Plymouth's historic sites, maritime heritage, and local attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Canterbury to Plymouth.
Since neither Canterbury nor Plymouth are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Plymouth include Truro, Exeter, Newton Abbot, Newquay, Camborne.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Canterbury to Plymouth among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Plymouth, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas such as the Barbican and city center. Some may encounter overcharging or unofficial taxi services, so it's advised to use licensed taxis. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional scams involving street vendors or unsolicited offers for tours. Staying vigilant and using official transportation and booking channels helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Canterbury to Plymouth
Most Canterbury to Plymouth trains use the Canterbury West to Plymouth station pair, with some services arriving at Devonport. Use this guide to compare Canterbury and Plymouth train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Canterbury
Arrival train stations in Plymouth
Which Canterbury station do trains to Plymouth leave from?
Trains from Canterbury to Plymouth leave from Canterbury West. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Canterbury city centre at Canterbury West station, Station Road West, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 8AN.
Canterbury WestCanterbury West station, Station Road West, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 8AN+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury West from Canterbury city centre
Bus21, 400, 401, Uni1, Uni2 · 14m · $4 · every ~22 min
Canterbury West train station facilities and services
Canterbury West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Canterbury West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Canterbury West. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Canterbury West: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Canterbury West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: two within concourse, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Canterbury EastCanterbury East station, Station Road East, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2RB+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury East from Canterbury city centre
Bus649 · 9m
Canterbury East train station facilities and services
Canterbury East has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Canterbury East.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Canterbury East.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Canterbury East. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Canterbury East: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Canterbury East: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury East: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The Ticket Vending Machines's can only be accessed when the station building is open as they are in the booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Plymouth station do trains from Canterbury arrive at?
Trains from Canterbury to Plymouth most often arrive at Plymouth. Some services arrive at Devonport, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Plymouth arrival station.
PlymouthPlymouth station, North Road, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 6AB+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Plymouth from Plymouth city centre
Bus13, 2, 170 · 4m · $2 · every ~11 min
Plymouth train station facilities and services
Plymouth has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Plymouth.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Plymouth. ATMs are available at Plymouth.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Plymouth.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Plymouth: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Plymouth: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Plymouth: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to all platforms via lifts and the station subway. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Station pay phones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
DevonportDevonport station, Portland Road, Devonport, Plymouth, Devon, PL1 4QN
City-centre transport
Getting to Devonport from Plymouth city centre
Devonport is 2 km from Plymouth city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainExeter St Davids - Penzance, Plymouth - Penzance, Plymouth - Gunnislake, Plymouth - Liskeard · 3m · $1 · every ~2 min
BusDc7 · 8m · $2
Dc7 · 9m · $2
21, 34, 21A · 13m · $5 · every ~23 min
Devonport train station facilities and services
Devonport has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Devonport.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Devonport: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Devonport: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Devonport: Staff help available: No, Step free access note: Step-free category B3 station – “Some step-free access, may be in one direction only.” Step free access possible to South bound platform, there is no step free access for services to Plymouth. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
DockyardDockyard station, Paisley Street, Devonport, Plymouth, Devon, PL2 1RX
City-centre transport
Getting to Dockyard from Plymouth city centre
Dockyard is 2 km from Plymouth city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainExeter St Davids - Penzance, Plymouth - Penzance, Plymouth - Gunnislake, Plymouth - Liskeard · 4m · $1 · every ~1 min
Bus33 · 11m · $5 · every ~5 min
33 · 14m · $5 · every ~5 min
70B, 70 · 16m · $2 · every ~3 min
33 · 17m · $5 · every ~5 min
14 · 21m · $5 · every ~3 min
Dockyard train station facilities and services
Dockyard has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Dockyard.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dockyard: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Dockyard: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dockyard: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step free Category C Station - This station does not have step free access to any platform. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Canterbury
More options for your journey from Canterbury to Plymouth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Plymouth and Canterbury
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