- Recommended
Southend Central Museum and Planetarium
Museum beside Prittlewell Priory covering local archaeology, social history and natural history. A strong introduction to Southend and Essex.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 31 Oct
- Cheapest price on 31 Oct
- £74
- Average ticket price on 31 Oct
- £103
- Fastest journey on 31 Oct
- 4 h 56 m
- Average journey duration on 31 Oct
- 5 h 2 m
- Trains on 31 Oct
- 6
- Distance
- 364 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea will cost around £103 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £74.
Fast trains
To travel from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea you need to make at least 2 changes.
C42166+
C37912+
Y6497613:15 4h56 Plymouth station (PLY) 18:11 Southend Central (SOC) £74 1 One-way 2 changes- C42168+C38072+Y64984
15:15 4h56 Plymouth station (PLY) 20:11 Southend Central (SOC) £74 1 One-way 2 changes - W34584+C37992+Y64980
14:15 4h56 Plymouth station (PLY) 19:11 Southend Central (SOC) £74 1 One-way 2 changes - W34575+Y64972+C37830
12:14 4h57 Plymouth station (PLY) 17:11 Southend Central (SOC) £79 1 One-way 2 changes 
G01081+C42164+
P76852+C3788612:27 5h25 Plymouth station (PLY) 17:52 Southend Victoria (SOV) £159 1 One-way 3 changes
- C42166+C37912+Y64976
13:15 4h56 Plymouth station (PLY) 18:11 Southend Central (SOC) £74 1 One-way 2 changes - C42168+C38072+Y64984
15:15 4h56 Plymouth station (PLY) 20:11 Southend Central (SOC) £74 1 One-way 2 changes - W34584+C37992+Y64980
14:15 4h56 Plymouth station (PLY) 19:11 Southend Central (SOC) £74 1 One-way 2 changes - W34575+Y64972+C37830
12:14 4h57 Plymouth station (PLY) 17:11 Southend Central (SOC) £79 1 One-way 2 changes - G01081+C42164+P76852+C37886
12:27 5h25 Plymouth station (PLY) 17:52 Southend Victoria (SOV) £159 1 One-way 3 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £56 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:54, the last at 22:04. The fastest train covers the 364 km distance in 4h 12m.
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 364 km |
Average train duration 4h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price £56 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 12m |
First train 4:54 |
Last train 22:04 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 21 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
Frequently asked questions about your Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea.
The cost of a train ticket from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £56, while the average price tends to be around £83.
The train journey from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea covers a distance of 364 km and takes approximately 4h 12m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea is 364 km.
The first train from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea leaves at 4:54.
The last train from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea departs at 22:04.
Trains from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea run approximately 7 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea.
Live departures
Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea train times
The table below shows live departures for Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea trains for today, Friday 30 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W34552+C38102+P76718 | On time 4:54 Plymouth station (PLY) | 5h21 | 10:15 Southend Victoria (SOV) | 2 changes | |
| W34553+C38136+P76730 | On time 5:55 Plymouth station (PLY) | 5h00 | 10:55 Southend Victoria (SOV) | 2 changes | |
W34553+C37753+Y64092+ Tube from Whitechapel to London Fenchurch Street | On time 5:55 Plymouth station (PLY) | 4h45 | 10:40 Southend Central (SOC) | 3 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry offer trains services from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea.
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 CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea.
- 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea.
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Plymouth and Southend-on-Sea from £56. 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
4h 12m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£72
Great Western Railway frequency
6 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
4h 39m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£56
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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Plymouth and Southend-on-Sea
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea.
Yes, there is a night train from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea.
Complete guide to Southend-on-Sea
Things to do in Southend-on-Sea
Discover the best of Southend-on-Sea — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Southend-on-Sea trip today.
- Recommended
Prittlewell Priory
Historic house museum in Priory Park with restored rooms, monastic remains and displays on local life. Good for history and architecture.
Southend Pier Museum
Compact museum at the end of the pier exploring the pier’s engineering, railway and seaside heritage. Worth adding to a pier visit.
- Must visit
Southend Seafront
Popular beachfront promenade for walking, cycling and sea views, linking the pier, gardens and classic seaside attractions.
- Recommended
Old Leigh
Lively old fishing quarter with cobbled lanes, cockle sheds, pubs, small galleries and estuary views. Full of local character.
- Recommended
Priory Park
Large park with formal gardens, lake, play areas and the priory complex. A pleasant green space for walks near the centre.
Fish and chips
Freshly landed fish, usually cod or haddock, in batter with chips. A classic Essex seaside meal tied to Southend’s long pier and beachfront chippies.
- Gluten-free
Essex oysters
Briny native or rock oysters from the Thames Estuary area, traditionally eaten very fresh. They reflect the long shellfish heritage of the Essex coast.
Potted shrimps or local prawns
Sweet, delicate prawns from the nearby North Sea and estuary waters, often served simply with bread and butter. A long-standing local seafood favourite.
Food
Stylish restaurant in nearby Leigh-on-Sea focused on British seafood and seasonal cooking. Cosy, polished dining room with estuary character.
Osborne Bros
Historic seafront fish restaurant known for oysters, cockles and classic seafood. Traditional, no-frills atmosphere close to the beach.
The Peterboat
Popular seafood restaurant and fishmonger serving fresh local catch, shellfish and grilled fish. Smart but relaxed setting near the seafront.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside city. Dining and hotels cost less than London, but peak summer stays and seafront areas raise prices. Local buses and trains are standard UK-priced.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a basic meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafés and pubs do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £6.00
To the city centre
Chalkwell -> Southend Travel Centre
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless Tap&Cap works on First Bus services in Southend-on-Sea and caps fares automatically at the day ticket price.
- Southend bus single fares are generally covered by the £3 fare cap until the end of March 2027.
Plan your visit to Southend-on-Sea
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Southend-on-Sea.
The train journey from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea offers a mix of scenic views, including stretches of coastline, rolling countryside, and charming towns, especially in the initial segments through Devon and Somerset.
FAQs: Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Booking trains from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Plymouth and Southend-on-Sea
Most Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea trains use the Plymouth to Southend Central station pair, with some services arriving at Southend Victoria. Use this guide to compare Plymouth and Southend-on-Sea train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Plymouth
Arrival train stations in Southend-on-Sea
Which Plymouth station do trains to Southend-on-Sea leave from?
Trains from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea leave from Plymouth. The station is 1 km from Plymouth city centre at Plymouth station, North Road, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 6AB.
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.
Which Southend-on-Sea station do trains from Plymouth arrive at?
Trains from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea most often arrive at Southend Central. Some services arrive at Southend Victoria, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Southend-on-Sea arrival station.
Southend CentralSouthend Central station, Clifftown Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1AB+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Southend Central from Southend-on-Sea city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBus stops on Clifftown Road near The Last Public House
Southend Central train station facilities and services
Southend Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southend Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southend Central. ATMs are available at Southend Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southend Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03457 44 44 22, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southend Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southend Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southend Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Southend VictoriaSouthend Victoria station, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 6AZ
City-centre transport
Getting to Southend Victoria from Southend-on-Sea city centre
Bus25, 7, 20, 825, 827, 21S, 28, 21, 3, 26, 20S · 3m · £3 · every ~69 min
Southend Victoria train station facilities and services
Southend 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 Southend Victoria.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southend Victoria. ATMs are available at Southend Victoria.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southend Victoria. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, 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 Southend Victoria: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southend Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southend Victoria: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Taxi rank at front of station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Train stations for Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea
Check train stations information for Plymouth and Southend-on-Sea, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Plymouth that goes to Southend-on-Sea is Plymouth, and it arrives at Southend Central.
More options for your journey from Plymouth to Southend-on-Sea
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Southend-on-Sea and Plymouth
Most popular train connections to Southend-on-Sea
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