- 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.
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Southampton to Plymouth
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 17
Cheapest price on Sep 17
€19
Average ticket price on Sep 17
€103
Fastest journey on Sep 17
4 h 8 m
Average journey duration on Sep 17
5 h 14 m
Trains on Sep 17
3
Distance
202 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Southampton to Plymouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Plymouth will cost around €103 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €19.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Southampton to Plymouth without transferring at least once.
C48124 · G149775:33 AM4h08Southampton Central (SOU)9:41 AMPlymouth station (PLY)€191One-way1 transfer
L78743 · L79315+G149785:55 AM6h19Southampton Central (SOU)12:14 PMPlymouth station (PLY)€751One-way2 transfers- W34782+L78743+
G008495:55 AM5h15Southampton Central (SOU)11:10 AMPlymouth station (PLY)€2171One-way2 transfers
- C48124 · G149775:33 AM4h08Southampton Central (SOU)9:41 AMPlymouth station (PLY)€191One-way1 transfer
- W34782+L78743+G008495:55 AM5h15Southampton Central (SOU)11:10 AMPlymouth station (PLY)€2171One-way2 transfers
- L78743 · L79315+G149785:55 AM6h19Southampton Central (SOU)12:14 PMPlymouth station (PLY)€751One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Southampton to Plymouth
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Plymouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €75 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 9m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €75, while a train costs an average of €103.
Distance: 125 miles (202 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€103 Average price | €75 Average price Cheapest | €45 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 9m Average total duration Fastest 3h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 18m Average total duration 6h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 23m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Southampton to Plymouth is a bus with an average price of €75.
This is compared to other travel options from Southampton to Plymouth:
A bus is €28 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Southampton to Plymouth costing on average €103.
The fastest way to travel from Southampton to Plymouth is by train with an average journey time of 3h 39m.
Other travel options to Plymouth take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 48m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Plymouth including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton to Plymouth among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around €103 compared to roughly €45 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-57.79. The journey takes 3h 39m versus 3h 23m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Southampton to Plymouth train times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Plymouth trains for today, Wednesday, September 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G00849+W34782 | Delayed 5:15 AM 6:15 AMSouthampton Central (SOU) | 4h55 | 10:15 AM 10:15 AMPlymouth station (PLY) | 1 transfer | |
| Thursday, September 17 | |||||
| C48124 · G14977 | 5:33 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 4h08 | 9:41 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 1 transfer | |
| L78743 · L79315+G14978 | 5:55 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 6h19 | 12:14 PM Plymouth station (PLY) | 2 transfers | |
| L78743+W34782+G00849 | 5:55 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 5h15 | 11:10 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Plymouth by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Thu
Sep 17
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Why should you book Southampton to Plymouth trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as South Western Railway, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more offer trains services from Southampton to Plymouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Plymouth.
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, CrossCountry or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Plymouth.
- 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 and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Southampton to Plymouth.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway, CrossCountry or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Plymouth.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Southampton to Plymouth.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Southampton to Plymouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Southampton to Plymouth run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €31 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:12, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 125 miles (202 km) distance in 3h 7m.
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
Distance 125 miles (202 km) |
Average train duration 3h 39m |
Cheapest ticket price €31 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 7m |
First train 12:12 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway from Southampton to Plymouth trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway trains will get you between Southampton and Plymouth from €31. 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 Great Western Railway Duration
3h 7m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
€31
Great Western Railway frequency
4 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
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
3h 41m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
€66
CrossCountry frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
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 South Western Railway Duration
3h 22m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
€60
South Western Railway frequency
2 a day
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 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 Southampton to Plymouth
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton 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 Southampton to Plymouth can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €31, while the average price is around €103.
The train from Southampton to Plymouth takes 3h 7m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Southampton to Plymouth leaves at 12:12 AM.
The distance by train from Southampton to Plymouth is 125 miles (202 km).
The last train from Southampton to Plymouth leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Southampton to Plymouth.
There is no direct train service currently available from Southampton to Plymouth.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Southampton to Plymouth.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Plymouth is Southampton Central (SOU), which connects to Plymouth station (PLY).
The cheapest way to get from Southampton to Plymouth is by train, with a cost of around €31.
The train journey from Southampton to Plymouth offers scenic views, especially along the stunning South Devon coastline and through the picturesque countryside, making it an enjoyable experience for travelers.
A day trip from Southampton to Plymouth is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 7m. However, there are 6 train trips per day.
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 Southampton to Plymouth.
Since neither Southampton 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 Southampton 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 Southampton to Plymouth
Most Southampton to Plymouth trains use the Southampton Central to Plymouth station pair. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Plymouth train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Southampton
Arrival train stations in Plymouth
Which Southampton station do trains to Plymouth leave from?
Trains from Southampton to Plymouth leave from Southampton Central. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Southampton city centre at Southampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL.
Southampton CentralSouthampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton Central from Southampton city centre
BusX4, X5 · 5m · €2 · every ~20 min
Southampton Central train station facilities and services
Southampton Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southampton Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Central. ATMs are available at Southampton Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southampton Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Central: 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. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Plymouth station do trains from Southampton arrive at?
Trains from Southampton to Plymouth arrive at Plymouth. Plymouth is 0 miles (1 km) from Plymouth city centre.
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.
More options for your journey from Southampton to Plymouth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Plymouth and Southampton
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
