Nottingham to Plymouth Road Trip: Hidden Gems and Driving Guide

This route from Nottingham to Plymouth covers roughly 240 miles, primarily via the M1, A42, M42, A46, M5, A38, and finally the A38 into Devon. The drive typically takes 4.5 to 5.5 hours without traffic, but the journey is far more than a highway sprint.

A little-known fact: the A38, which you join near Bristol, traces part of the ancient Roman road known as the Fosse Way, connecting the Midlands to the South West. This historical thread adds a layer of depth to the tarmac beneath your wheels.

Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a move, the question 'is it worth driving Nottingham to Plymouth?' is answered by the rich tapestry of landscapes, food, and culture you'll encounter. This guide will help you find the best stops Nottingham to Plymouth, ensuring you don't just cover miles, but create memories.

For a deeper dive on discovering hidden gems, see our article on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Fuel stations are plentiful along the M5 and A38, but note that the A38 between Bristol and Exeter has fewer services than the motorway. Plan to refuel at Taunton Deane Services (M5) or Exeter Services (M5). For best fuel efficiency, maintain 60 mph on A-roads; the hilly terrain in Devon and Cornwall can reduce MPG by 10–15%.

Estimated fuel cost for a typical car: around £40–£55 for petrol, based on current prices. Use apps like Waze to find cheaper fuel stations off the main route.

• Road numbers: A6002, A52, M1 (J24-J1), A42, M42 (J9-J1), A46, M5 (J9-J31), A38
• Tolls: None on this route
• Traffic pinch points: M1 around Leicester (J21-J22), M5 near Bristol (J16-J19), A38 at Exeter and Plymouth
• Parking: Park & Ride options in Exeter and Plymouth; on-street parking may have restrictions

The A38 is a dual carriageway but has several at-grade junctions and agricultural vehicles, especially near Exeter. Drive with caution in fog on Dartmoor—visibility can drop suddenly. Speed cameras are active on the M5 and A38.

Night illumination: the M5 is well-lit near urban areas, but the A38 gets dark between stretches; ensure your headlights are clean. There are no tolls on this route.

For families, consider these stops:

• Thinktank Birmingham (detour via M6) – interactive science museum, ideal for ages 5-15
• Bristol Zoo Project (near M5 J17) – zoo with a focus on conservation
• Crealy Adventure Park, Exeter (M5 J30) – theme park and farm, great for all ages
• Dartmoor Zoo (A38) – small, family-run zoo featured in a film

Pet-friendly stops: many service stations along the M5 have dog walking areas; at the Sedgemoor Services, there's a designated pet exercise area. In Devon, the village of Buckfastleigh has a dog-friendly café, the Fountain Inn, near the A38.

Fatigue management: aim to stop every 2 hours. Good rest zones include the Fleet Park Services (M4/M5) and the Devon Services at junction 30 of the M5. Both have parking for rest without refueling. If you need a nap, use a motorway service area or a large layby—but avoid parking on minor roads in Dartmoor as night. For hidden off-route spots, exit at junction 28 of the M5 and drive 5 minutes to the village of Wellington, a 12th-century market town with a ruined castle.

The journey takes you from the rolling hills of the East Midlands to the dramatic coastline of Devon. The landscape shifts from pastoral farmland to the limestone gorges of Cheddar (a short detour from the M5) and finally to the granite tors of Dartmoor National Park.

Geographical highlights include crossing the River Avon near Bristol, the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) visible from the M5, and the iconic Dartmoor skyline as you approach Plymouth.

• Cheddar Gorge: 650ft deep gorge, with walking trails and a cheese market (off the M5 J22)
• Glastonbury Tor: Prominent hill with a tower, offering panoramic views (detour via A39)
• Dartmoor National Park: Wild ponies, tors, and rugged uplands (accessible from B3212)
• Plymouth Sound: Europe's largest natural harbor (a must-see at sunset)

For local commerce, stop at the Exeter Farmers' Market (Thursdays on the Cathedral Green) or the Plymouth Market for Devonshire cream teas, clotted cream, and handmade pasties. The town of Ashburton on the A38 has antique shops and a vibrant arts scene.