Bideford to Plymouth (and vice versa)

Bideford is a historic market town in North Devon, England, known for its rich Saxon heritage and scenic location near the coast and Exmoor National Park.

On the other hand, Plymouth is located in Devon and it is a vibrant coastal city with a strong maritime heritage, including being home to the Royal Navy’s largest naval base, Devonport.

Both towns offer notable landmarks and attract tourists for their historical and natural attractions.

You may wonder, how you will be able to get to these places.

Bideford to Plymouth

Travelling from Bideford to Plymouth is relatively convenient and offers various transportation options.

The distance between the two towns is approximately 40 miles (64 kilometres).

Here are a few ways to make the journey:

Bideford to Plymouth by Car

The most flexible option is to drive from Bideford to Plymouth. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

You can take the A386 and A38 roads, which provide a direct route between the two towns.

Bideford to Plymouth by Train

To travel from Bideford to Plymouth by train, you’ll first need to go to Barnstaple, the nearest train station located about 10 miles (16 kilometres) away.

From Barnstaple, there are multiple train departures to Plymouth throughout the day, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours for the journey.

Consider taking a bus or taxi from Bideford to Barnstaple for easy access to the train station.

Checking train schedules in advance is recommended for smoother travel.

While visiting Bideford or Plymouth, don’t miss out on the top 9 places not to miss out on when travelling to Bideford.

Other Transport Options

Taxi/Uber

Taxis and private car services offer direct transportation from Bideford to Plymouth, ensuring convenience and door-to-door service.

However, they tend to be more expensive than other options. The travel time typically ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

Compare prices and book with local taxi companies or rideshare apps for a comfortable and efficient journey.

Walking/Bike

Travelling from Bideford to Plymouth by walking or biking is a lengthy journey.

Walking the A386 road covers a distance of 50.8 miles, taking approximately 17 hours and 7 minutes.

Cycling along National Cycle Route 27 spans around 60.9 miles, with an estimated travel time of 5 hours and 54 minutes.

It’s crucial to plan carefully, considering the route’s suitability and any restrictions.

However, alternative transportation methods like cars, taxis, or public transport may offer more efficient options to reach Plymouth.

Why go to Plymouth?

Plymouth is a captivating city with a rich maritime history and stunning coastal landscapes.

From exploring the historic Barbican to enjoying the waterfront restaurants, there’s something for everyone.

Discover the city’s naval heritage, walk along the scenic Plymouth Hoe, or venture into Dartmoor National Park.

With cultural events, vibrant nightlife, and diverse dining options, Plymouth offers a memorable experience blending history, natural beauty, and modern amenities.

Plymouth to Bideford

Travelling from Plymouth to Bideford offers several transportation options.

By car, the journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and the distance between Bideford and Plymouth covers a distance of about 40 miles.

If you prefer public transportation, you can take a train from Plymouth to Barnstaple, the nearest train station to Bideford.

The train journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, you can opt for bus services or book a taxi for a comfortable and convenient ride.

Travel times may vary depending on traffic and other factors, so it’s advisable to plan ahead and check for any updates before your journey.

Things to do in Plymouth

Plymouth, a vibrant city in the southwest of England, offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.

Here are some notable things to do in Plymouth:

• Historic Barbican: Explore cobbled streets, boutique shops, and waterfront dining.
• Royal William Yard: Enjoy dining, art galleries, boutiques, and cultural events.
• Plymouth Hoe: Breathtaking views of Plymouth Sound and Smeaton’s Tower.
• National Marine Aquarium: Discover marine life and conservation efforts.
• Mayflower Steps: Learn about the historic Pilgrims’ voyage.
• The Box: Art, history, and Culture in a modern museum.
• Theatre Royal: Wide range of performances in a well-equipped theatre.
• Plymouth Gin Distillery: Guided tours, gin tasting, and gin-making heritage.
• Boat Trips: Coastal exploration and landmark visits.
• Outdoor Activities: Hiking, cycling, and beach relaxation.

Things to do in Bideford

In Bideford, there are various activities and attractions to enjoy.

Here are some of the things that you can do:

• Experience the vibrant nightlife and dining options in Bideford.
• Explore Bideford Quay for scenic river views.
• Enjoy outdoor activities along the Tarka Trail.
• Visit The Burton Art Gallery and Museum.

In Summary

Explore the vibrant coastal city of Plymouth with its rich maritime history.

Visit the historic Barbican, stroll through the Royal William Yard, and enjoy panoramic views from the Plymouth Hoe.

Experience the fascinating marine life at the National Marine Aquarium and learn about the Pilgrims’ voyage at the Mayflower Steps.

Immerse yourself in art, history, and culture at The Box Museum and catch a show at the Theatre Royal.

Don’t miss a guided tour of the Plymouth Gin Distillery or the scenic boat trips along the coastline.

With outdoor activities like hiking and beach relaxation, Plymouth offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Plan your visit to this captivating city today.

We also made a travel guide from Bideford to Instow which you can use for your next visit to this beautiful place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the top questions about Plymouth, answered.

Q: Is Plymouth near Kent?
A: Yes, Plymouth is approximately 257 miles away from Kent, and it takes around 4 hours and 25 minutes to drive between the two locations.

Q: Which city is close to Plymouth UK?
A: Plymouth is located on the south coast of Devon, about 36 miles (58 km) southwest of Exeter and 193 miles (311 km) southwest of London. It is bordered by Cornwall to the west and southwest.

Q: Which part of the UK is Plymouth located?
A: Plymouth is located in the county of Devon, which is in the southwestern part of England. It lies between the Rivers Plym and Tamar, flowing into Plymouth Sound, a significant anchorage utilized by the Royal Navy.

Q: What is Plymouth, England famous for?
A: Plymouth is renowned as one of England’s prominent ocean cities with a rich maritime history. It has been a centre for trade and commercial shipping for centuries and currently serves as a major base for the Royal Navy. The Devonport Dockyard in Plymouth is the most extensive naval base in Western Europe.