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Find London to Plymouth bus tickets

from
London, United Kingdom
to
Plymouth, United Kingdom

Why Choose Bus from London to Plymouth

Traveling from London to Plymouth offers a unique opportunity to explore the scenic beauty of England's southern coast. Choosing the right mode of transportation can enhance your travel experience and make it more enjoyable.

💰 Cost-Effective Travel

pros
  • Bus tickets range from £27 to £38, making it a budget-friendly option compared to train fares, which can be significantly higher.
  • No additional luggage fees are typically charged for bus passengers, making it easier to travel with more belongings.
cons
  • While the bus is economical, it can take longer than trains or flights, resulting in an extended travel time.

🛎️ Scenic Views Along the Route

pros
  • The bus route from London to Plymouth offers beautiful landscapes, including countryside vistas and coastal scenery, that can make the journey more visually pleasant.
  • Passengers can enjoy panoramic views from the comfort of their seats, creating a more immersive travel experience.
cons
  • Traveling overnight may limit your ability to enjoy these scenic views, as it might be dark for most of the journey.

⭐ Convenient Departure and Arrival Points

pros
  • Buses depart from London Victoria Coach Station, which is centrally located and easily accessible by public transport.
  • Plymouth Coach Station is also conveniently located near the city center, providing easy access to local attractions.
cons
  • Traveling to and from coach stations can sometimes be less convenient than train stations, which may have quicker connections to other transit options.

highlights:

Travel time is longer when taking the bus, which may not be ideal for those seeking a quicker option.

Bus travel from London to Plymouth is more affordable compared to alternatives like flying or taking the train.

The journey provides an opportunity to enjoy picturesque views, especially if traveling during daylight.

The central locations of departure and arrival stations make it easy to start and end your journey.

Bus Options from London to Plymouth

Typecompanydeparture stationarrival stationdeparture timearrival timeFrequencyDurationPrice Rangelayover city
DirectFlixBusLondon Victoria Coach Station, LondonPlymouth Coach Station, Plymouth10:00, 12:30, 15:00, 18:1516:41, 19:11, 21:41, 00:16Hourly6h 41m
£
27-38
DirectNational ExpressLondon Victoria Coach Station, LondonPlymouth Coach Station, Plymouth08:00, 11:00, 14:00, 19:3014:06, 17:06, 20:06, 01:00Twice daily6h 6m
£
30-45
ConnectingMegabusLondon Victoria Coach Station, LondonPlymouth Coach Station, Plymouth09:15, 13:15, 17:1515:15, 19:15, 23:15Every four hours8h
£
25-35
Exeter
ConnectingFlixBusLondon Victoria Coach Station, LondonPlymouth Coach Station, Plymouth22:00, 23:0005:00, 06:00Daily7h 30m
£
27-38
Bristol

Comparison of Bus Operators from London to Plymouth

Comparing bus operators on the London to Plymouth route is essential for travelers looking for the best value, comfort, and convenience. Factors such as price, amenities, and accessibility can significantly influence the travel experience, making it vital to understand what each operator offers.

CriteriaFlixBusNational Express
Price Range£ 27 - £ 38£ 30 - £ 45
pricing policies
refund policyTickets are refundable up to 24 hours before departure with a fee.Refunds available up to 2 hours before travel with a £3 fee.
Ticket ChangesChanges are allowed with a fee, must be made 2 hours before departure.Changes allowed up to 2 hours before departure without fee.
discounts10% discount for students and seniors with valid ID.15% discount for family bookings (up to 5 people).
amenitiesFree Wi-Fi, Power outlets, Restroom on board, Air conditioningFree Wi-Fi, Power outlets available, On-board refreshments, Adjustable seating
baggage allowance
free allowance1 piece of luggage per passenger up to 20kg.2 pieces of luggage per passenger up to 25kg each.
Additional Fees£5 for each additional piece or oversized luggage.No additional fees for extra luggage within limits.
accessibilityLow-floor buses are equipped with ramps for wheelchair access.Buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated seating.

While both FlixBus and National Express offer competitive services on the London to Plymouth route, FlixBus provides a slightly lower fare with a few more restrictions on refunds and changes. National Express offers better baggage allowance and amenities but at a higher price. Travelers should consider their specific needs, such as budget or luggage requirements, to choose the operator that best fits their travel plan.

Bus Stops and Stations from London to Plymouth

Understanding the bus stops and stations is essential for a smooth travel experience between London and Plymouth.

Main Bus Stations in London

Victoria Coach Station

Located in central London, just a short walk from Attraction sites such as Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
  • Luggage storage lockers
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food and beverage options (cafés, vending machines)
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
  • Buses (London bus services available)
  • Metro lines (Victoria Line)
  • Trains (Victoria Station nearby)
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
  • Be aware of security checks before entering the station.
  • Try to travel during off-peak hours (mid-morning or late evening) to avoid large crowds.
  • Explore nearby restaurants and shops if you arrive early.

Main Bus Stations in Plymouth

Plymouth Coach Station

Situated close to the city center, near key attractions such as the Hoe and the National Marine Aquarium.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Ticket counter
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food options (snack bars, vending machines)
  • Accessibility features (ramps)
Transportation Links
  • Buses (local services and connections)
  • Train station nearby (Plymouth Railway Station)
  • Taxi and rideshare services available
  • Aim to disembark with at least 15 minutes to spare before any onward journey.
  • Keep your belongings close, especially in crowd-dense areas.
  • Traveling during weekdays can be less crowded, particularly in mid-afternoon.
  • Visit nearby shops or parks if time allows after arrival.

En Route Stops

Reading

Duration: 20m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Waiting area
  • Food options (kiosk/snack bar)

Bristol

Duration: 30m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Waiting area
  • Food options (cafés and shops nearby)

Familiarizing yourself with both departure and arrival bus stations, as well as intermediary stops, can greatly enhance your travel experience and ensure a hassle-free journey.

Travel Tips

  • ⛰ Enjoy the Scenic Coastline

    Take the time to look out the window as you travel from London to Plymouth. The route offers stunning views of the English coastline, especially as you approach Devon, where you can catch glimpses of sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs.

  • 📍 Plan Around Local Events

    Check the local event calendar before your trip. Festivals such as the British Firework Championships or local farmers markets in Plymouth can significantly enhance your travel experience, providing unique opportunities to engage with local culture.

  • 🚍 Pack Snacks from Local Vendors

    Stock up on local snacks from shops in London before boarding. Try popular treats like Cornish pasties or Devonshire clotted cream fudge, which you can enjoy during the journey while supporting local businesses!

  • 🎭 Utilize Onboard Amenities

    Many bus services from London to Plymouth offer free Wi-Fi and charging points. Make sure to get your devices charged and ready to enjoy entertainment or work during the journey for a more comfortable experience.

  • 🏛 Break Up Your Journey with a Stop

    Consider planning a short stop in historical towns like Exeter or Torquay along the way. Not only will this make the trip more enjoyable, but it also allows you to stretch your legs and explore charming local sights.

FAQ

The average bus journey takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and the specific service you choose.
Yes, most bus services include scheduled restroom breaks at service stations, typically every 1.5 to 2 hours.
Many bus companies allow small pets, provided they are in a suitable carrier. Always check with the specific bus operator for their pet policy before you travel.
If your bus is delayed, the company usually provides updates via text or their app. It’s best to stay at the departure point and keep an eye on the display boards for real-time information.
Most bus operators allow one large suitcase and one carry-on bag per passenger free of charge. However, double-check with the bus company for specifics, as policies may differ.

Trips from London