- Recommended
Ilfracombe Museum
Local museum covering Ilfracombe's maritime, social, and natural history. A strong introduction to the town through varied artifacts and displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from London to Ilfracombe
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
$49
Average price
$86
Fastest journey
3 h 20 m
Average duration
3 h 29 m
Trains per day
13
Distance
279 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from London to Ilfracombe is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from London to Ilfracombe will cost around $86 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $49.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from London to Ilfracombe without transferring at least once.
L79395+
Y415362:20 PM5h11London Waterloo (WAT)7:31 PMBarnstaple station (BNP)$491One-way1 transfer- L79384+Y415321:20 PM5h13London Waterloo (WAT)6:33 PMBarnstaple station (BNP)$491One-way1 transfer
- L79384+Y415321:20 PM5h04London Waterloo (WAT)6:24 PMChapelton station (CPN)$491One-way1 transfer
- L79372+Y4152812:20 PM5h08London Waterloo (WAT)5:28 PMBarnstaple station (BNP)$611One-way1 transfer
- L79406+Y415403:20 PM5h12London Waterloo (WAT)8:32 PMBarnstaple station (BNP)$611One-way1 transfer
- G14983 · Y4152012:05 PM3h20London Paddington (PAD)3:25 PMBarnstaple station (BNP)$981One-way1 transfer
- W34809 · Y415241:03 PM3h23London Paddington (PAD)4:26 PMBarnstaple station (BNP)$981One-way1 transfer
- W34814 · Y415282:03 PM3h25London Paddington (PAD)5:28 PMBarnstaple station (BNP)$981One-way1 transfer
- W34823 · Y415364:03 PM3h28London Paddington (PAD)7:31 PMBarnstaple station (BNP)$1411One-way1 transfer
- W34817 · Y415322:36 PM3h48London Paddington (PAD)6:24 PMChapelton station (CPN)$981One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for London to Ilfracombe
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from London to Ilfracombe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 49m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a flight costs an average of $26.
Distance: 173 miles (279 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$71 Average price | $40 Average price Cheapest | $291 Average price | $90 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 26m Average total duration 3h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 42m Average total duration 6h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 49m Average total duration Fastest 3h 49m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 28m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from London to Ilfracombe is a bus with an average price of $40.
This is compared to other travel options from London to Ilfracombe:
A bus is $31 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from London to Ilfracombe costing on average $71.
A bus is $251 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from London to Ilfracombe costing on average $291.
The fastest way to travel from London to Ilfracombe is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 49m.
Other travel options to Ilfracombe take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 56m.
Bus takes on average 6h 12m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between London and Ilfracombe including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from London to Ilfracombe among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 32m faster (3h 56m by train vs 4h 28m by car) and roughly $19 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($71 vs $90). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
London to Ilfracombe train times
The table below shows live departures for London to Ilfracombe trains for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G15434+L79384+Y41532+ G01009 | On time 12:08 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 6h16 | 6:24 PM Chapelton station (CPN) | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets London to Ilfracombe 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 London to Ilfracombe trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as South Western Railway offer trains services from London to Ilfracombe.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London to Ilfracombe.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from London to Ilfracombe.
- 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 London to Ilfracombe.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from London to Ilfracombe.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from London to Ilfracombe.
Journey information
Overview: Train from London to Ilfracombe
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from London to Ilfracombe run on average 14 times per day, taking around 3h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $31 but you can travel from only $18 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 06:00, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 173 miles (279 km) distance in 3h 20m.
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 $18
Distance 173 miles (279 km) |
Average train duration 3h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price $31 |
Trains per day 14 |
Fastest train 3h 20m |
First train 6:00 AM |
Last train 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 2 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 $18
Train companies: Great Western Railway, South Western Railway from London to Ilfracombe trainsGreat Western Railway, South Western Railway trains will get you between London and Ilfracombe from $18. 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
3h 20m
Cheapest Price
$67
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
South Western Railway
About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 4m
Cheapest Price
$31
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Ilfracombe
Things to do in Ilfracombe
Discover the best of Ilfracombe — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ilfracombe trip today.
- Recommended
Number 11 The Quay
Harbor gallery showing Damien Hirst works in a dramatic waterside setting. Important for contemporary art visitors exploring the town's creative side.
- Recommended
Hele Corn Mill
Nearby heritage mill with interpretive displays, crafts, and gallery elements. Offers a broader cultural stop just outside central Ilfracombe.
- Must visit
Ilfracombe Harbour
The heart of Ilfracombe's waterfront, lined with boats, historic buildings, and sea views. Essential for atmosphere, walks, and access to key sights.
- Must visit
Capstone Hill
Coastal hill and open space above the harbor with excellent viewpoints. Ideal for photos, sea breezes, and understanding the town's coastal layout.
- Must visit
South West Coast Path around Ilfracombe
Dramatic coastal path section with cliffs, sea panoramas, and wildlife interest. A top choice for active visitors wanting classic North Devon scenery.
- Gluten-free
North Devon Crab
Fresh North Devon crab is a local harbour staple, prized for sweet meat landed nearby and served simply in sandwiches, salads, or dressed platters.
- Gluten-free
Exmoor Mussels
Exmoor mussels are cultivated on the nearby coast and loved for their clean, briny flavour, often steamed with cider, garlic, or cream.
Fish And Chips
Beer-battered fish and chips is a classic Devon seaside meal, usually made with local catch and best eaten fresh by the harbour.
Thomas Carr At The Olive Room
Well-regarded restaurant offering modern British cooking with seafood and seasonal produce in a smart but welcoming setting.
S & P Fish Shop
Popular casual spot serving freshly cooked fish and chips near the seafront, valued for reliable portions and classic takeaway style.
The Admiral Collingwood
Established harbourside seafood restaurant known for local fish, shellfish, and relaxed coastal dining with water views.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town. Rooms and dining cost less than major UK cities, but summer prices rise. Local buses are affordable and many sights are low-cost.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple cafe meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for dinner in an upscale restaurant.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants often add a service charge; if not, 10-12.5% is standard for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up or tipped 10%. Cafe tipping is optional.
FAQs: Trains from London to Ilfracombe
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London to Ilfracombe 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 Ilfracombe, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from London to Ilfracombe can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $31, while the average price is around $71.
The train from London to Ilfracombe takes 3h 20m and runs 14 per day.
The distance by train from London to Ilfracombe is 173 miles (279 km).
The first train from London to Ilfracombe leaves at 6:00 AM.
The last train from London to Ilfracombe leaves at 11:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from London to Ilfracombe.
There is no direct train service currently available from London to Ilfracombe.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from London to Ilfracombe.
The train station in London that goes to Ilfracombe is London Paddington (PAD), which connects to Barnstaple station (BNP).
The cheapest way to get from London to Ilfracombe is by bus, with a cost of around $18.
The train journey from London to Ilfracombe is considered scenic as it passes through the picturesque English countryside, including views of rolling hills, quaint villages, and the beautiful landscapes of Devon.
A day trip from London to Ilfracombe is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 20m. There are 15 train trips available per day for this route.
To fully enjoy Ilfracombe's coastal scenery, charming harbor, local attractions, and nearby beaches, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal.
Yes, you can take the train from London to Ilfracombe.
Since neither London nor Ilfracombe 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 Ilfracombe include Exmouth, Paignton.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from London to Ilfracombe 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 Ilfracombe, travelers should be mindful of common coastal safety concerns such as slippery rocks and strong tides when visiting beaches and cliffs. There are no widespread scams reported specific to Ilfracombe, but travelers are advised to remain cautious with personal belongings in crowded areas and to use reputable transportation and ticket vendors to avoid potential fraud.
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 London to Ilfracombe
Most London to Ilfracombe trains use the London Paddington to Barnstaple station pair. Use this guide to compare London and Ilfracombe train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in London
Arrival train stations in Ilfracombe
London PaddingtonPraed Street, London, Greater London, W2 1HQ, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to London Paddington from London city centre
TrainElizabeth · 7m · $2 · every ~21 min
BusN118, N18 · 21m · $5 · every ~6 min
36 · 31m · $28 · every ~29 min
N205 · 32m · $5 · every ~2 min
46 · 1h 22m · $2 · every ~19 min
SubwayBakerloo · 12m · $5 · every ~65 min
London Paddington train station facilities and services
London Paddington has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Wasabi, The Beer House, Barburrito, Upper Crust, The Mad Bishop & Bear (Fullers), The Pasty Shop, Burger King, Pret a Manger, The Savanna, Soboro Bakery, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located next to the ticket office.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open 24/7. Information desks are located near Platform 1.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located near the taxi stand beside Platform 11. . Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at London Paddington: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at London Paddington: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at London Paddington: Wheelchair access, escalators, elevators.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hilton London Paddington, Mercure London Paddington Hotel, The Pilgrm.
London WaterlooLondon Waterloo station, Station Approach, London, Greater London., SE1 8SW+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to London Waterloo from London city centre
London Waterloo is 1 km from London city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus139 · 10m · $2 · every ~27 min
SubwayNorthern · 3m · $1 · every ~86 min
London Waterloo train station facilities and services
London Waterloo has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at London Waterloo.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at London Waterloo. ATMs are available at London Waterloo.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at London Waterloo. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at London Waterloo: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at London Waterloo: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at London Waterloo: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: There is step free access from the main concourse to all platforms, shops and facilities. Step free exits are exit 1 (Station approach), exit 2 (with a lift to Waterloo Road and lift access to the London Underground Jubilee line), and exit 3 for taxis and onward travel towards the South Bank, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available from the taxi rank on Cab Road / Station Approach, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Ticket machines are located at various locations on the main concourse and are accessible to wheelchair users, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
London VictoriaLondon Victoria station, Victoria Street, London, Greater London, SW1V 1JU+44 3450774224
City-centre transport
Getting to London Victoria from London city centre
London Victoria is 1 km from London city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus24 · 8m · $2 · every ~25 min
148 · 9m · $2 · every ~30 min
38, N38 · 10m · $2 · every ~46 min
390 · 25m · $2 · every ~26 min
26, N26 · 28m · $5 · every ~27 min
A8 · 37m · $1 · every ~10 min
SubwayCircle, District · 5m · $2 · every ~108 min
London Victoria train station facilities and services
London Victoria has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at London Victoria.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at London Victoria. ATMs are available at London Victoria.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at London Victoria. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at London Victoria: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at London Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at London Victoria: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: There is step free access at London Victoria Rail Station to the Victoria Line on the Underground. This can be accessed via the Cardinal Place entrance to the underground, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Main concourse, Accessible taxis: Available on request Taxi rank outside main station entrance, Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Sunday 24 Hours a Day, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
More options for your journey from London to Ilfracombe
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ilfracombe and London
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