Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Karen Price, Sandra Frank
26/08/2025
Matt D, Pexels
Dartmouth lacks its own train station, but the nearby town of Totnes serves as the primary rail gateway. For air travel, Exeter International Airport is the closest major hub, while Bristol Airport offers more extensive flight options. Various local ferry services operate across the River Dart, connecting Dartmouth to Kingswear and other points, and bus services link the town to surrounding areas and Totnes.
By Train and Bus:
The nearest mainline train station is Totnes, approximately 14 miles away. Regular services run from London Paddington to Totnes, taking about 2 hours 43 minutes and costing between £75-£220. From Totnes, a local bus (such as Stagecoach service 92) or taxi completes the journey to Dartmouth in around 30 minutes.
By Heritage Steam Train and Ferry:
For a scenic arrival, consider the Dartmouth Steam Railway from Paignton to Kingswear. An adult train and ferry ticket costs £23.50. A short ferry crossing then takes you from Kingswear into Dartmouth, which typically lasts 5 minutes, though allowing 30 minutes for connections is advisable.
By Bus/Coach:
National Express offers coach services to Totnes or Paignton from major cities like London Victoria Coach Station. A journey from London to Paignton can take approximately 5 hours 28 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes, with fares ranging from £16-£55. From Heathrow, coach journeys to Totnes/Paignton typically take 5 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 31 minutes, costing £24-£55. From these towns, local buses connect to Dartmouth.
By Car:
Dartmouth is accessible by road via the M5 and A38, taking the A3122 exit. Driving from London typically takes around 3 hours 53 minutes to 3 hours 56 minutes for a distance of 205-226 miles. Be prepared for a car ferry crossing across the River Dart (Higher or Lower Ferry) to enter Dartmouth, which incurs a fee, with contactless payment accepted on the Higher Ferry. Parking within Dartmouth is limited, with a Park and Ride service available during peak seasons.
By Air:
Exeter International Airport (EXT): is about 45 miles away. From there, one can rent a car (approximately 1-hour drive to Dartmouth) or take a train to Totnes, followed by a bus or taxi (totaling about 2 hours).
Bristol Airport (BRS): is roughly 100 miles away. Travel by car from Bristol to Dartmouth takes approximately 2 hours, or about 4 hours by combining a train to Totnes with a bus/taxi.
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