Travelling to Plymouth
We can organise your first night’s accommodation if needed. Please contact us with your arrival date and time, and the friendly UPIC team will be happy to help.
University travel guidelines
Discover all the latest travel information from the University of Plymouth. This highlights the full list of travel documents you will need, and what to expect when you arrive at a UK airport.
Private airport pickup
If you would like to pre-book an airport pickup in advance, then a trusted driver (with a UPIC placard) will be waiting for you at Arrivals to take you directly to Plymouth.
Group airport transfer
For all students arriving at London Heathrow on Sunday 8th September or Monday 9th September 2025, you can book a space on our coach for just £30! Students must book ASAP because there is limited availability. Please note that this service is not open to accompanying family or friends. More details and a booking link can be found on the University of Plymouth’s international arrivals page.
Organise your own travel to Plymouth
Travel by coach
You can travel by National Express which runs coaches directly from both Heathrow and Gatwick airports to Plymouth. This is the cheapest way to travel. Transfer times are approximately 5 hours (Heathrow) and 6 hours (Gatwick). If you choose this option, you will need to book your ticket 24 hours in advance of boarding the coach and make your own way to the correct coach pickup point at the airport (which is determined by your arrival terminal).
Travel by train
You can take the train from Gatwick or Heathrow to London and then get a connecting train from Paddington to Plymouth. Train times, prices and booking options are available via National Rail. Train services are operated by a variety of different companies. Some companies offer special deals, especially if booked in advance, on certain routes (usually longer distance routes). Please remember to book your train ticket before travelling to Plymouth and read the terms and conditions.
Public transport
Public transport in the UK includes trains, buses, some ferries, as well as the underground ‘tube’ trains in London. The cost of public transport depends on the type of ticket you buy and the distance you want to travel. In Plymouth, there is a network of frequent and reliable local buses, and these provide excellent access to all parts of the city.
UPIC address
University of Plymouth International College
19 Portland Villas
Drake Circus Devon PL4 8AA
Telephone: +44 (0) 1752 411 114
Email: info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk