Ivybridge Railway Station
Ivybridge Railway Station
Highlight • Parking
Road cycling
3.3
(2)
Ivybridge Railway Station, located in the charming town of Ivybridge, Devon, serves as a vital transport hub on the Exeter to Plymouth line in England. Situated at an elevation of approximately 122 metres, this unstaffed National Rail station is managed by Great Western Railway (GWR) and is particularly notable for its role as a park-and-ride facility. It provides convenient access to the stunning landscapes of the South Devon coastline and the southern edge of Dartmoor National Park, often referred to as the "Gateway to the Moor."
Visitors consistently appreciate the station's strategic location, making it an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding natural beauty. Its ample parking and direct train services to destinations like Plymouth, Exeter, Penzance, and London Paddington are frequently highlighted. The station's design, featuring a metal footbridge with long ramps, ensures step-free access between its two platforms, making it accessible for many travelers.
Before your visit, it's helpful to know that Ivybridge Railway Station is unstaffed, so ticket machines are available for purchases and collections. While there are sheltered waiting areas and outdoor seating, facilities like shops, cafes, or accessible toilets are not present directly at the station. The station boasts a council-managed car park with 200 spaces, including 7 accessible spots, designed to encourage car users to take the train into Plymouth City Centre. Parking can often be booked in advance, and visitors have noted that the car park has been free at times, making it an ideal spot for leaving a car to embark on hiking trails near Ivybridge train station or cycling adventures.
The best time to visit depends on your planned activities. The station is a year-round gateway for those looking to explore Dartmoor trails accessible from Ivybridge, whether for hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying the scenic views. Many find it an ideal base for easy walks from Ivybridge Railway Station into the town or along the Erme Valley Trail. For those planning longer excursions into Dartmoor, checking seasonal weather Ivybridge Dartmoor conditions is always advisable, especially for winter walks Ivybridge Station.
While there isn't a single defined route starting directly from the station, its primary function is to facilitate access to numerous popular trails routes Ivybridge Railway Station area. From here, you can easily connect to various Ivybridge walking routes that lead into the Dartmoor National Park, offering diverse landscapes and varying difficulty levels. The station's proximity to the A38 Devon Expressway also makes it a convenient drop-off point for those planning multi-day treks.
Travelers often remark on the convenience of the station for connecting to both urban centers and wild landscapes. Hikers and cyclists particularly value the ability to leave their vehicles securely and embark on adventures into southern Dartmoor. Although there are no dedicated bike parking services, most train services accommodate at least two bikes, though reserving space in advance is recommended for a smoother journey.
Whether you're planning a day trip to Plymouth, an exploration of the historic Ivy Bridge, or an ambitious trek into Dartmoor National Park, Ivybridge Railway Station offers a practical starting point. You can discover a wide array of hiking trails near Ivybridge train station, cycling routes, and family friendly walks Ivybridge Dartmoor using komoot's route planner to tailor your adventure. Explore the many options for dog friendly trails Ivybridge Station and find the perfect path for your next outdoor experience.
Cycling is not permitted at this location
Tips
December 27, 2023
Road cycling
June 24, 2024
Road cycling

In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Ivybridge Railway Station

53
riders
49.8km
02:25
600m
600m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

29
riders
35.2km
01:51
540m
540m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

5.0
(1)
20
riders
49.1km
02:39
750m
760m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Elevation 120 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Wednesday 10 June
16°C
9°C
47 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 25.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Ivybridge Railway Station serves as an excellent starting point for various walks. You can easily access the Erme Valley Trail for riverside walks or head towards Dartmoor National Park for more challenging hikes. Many popular trails in the southern Dartmoor area are within reach, offering diverse landscapes for hikers and cyclists.
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. The riverside walks along the Erme Valley Trail are generally flat and suitable for families. For those looking to explore Dartmoor, there are easier sections and paths that can be adapted for shorter, less strenuous outings, providing a good introduction to the moor's beauty.
Absolutely. The surrounding area, including parts of Dartmoor National Park and the Erme Valley, offers numerous dog-friendly trails. It's a popular spot for dog walkers, but always remember to keep dogs under control, especially near livestock, and to follow the Countryside Code.
The station has a council-managed car park with 200 spaces. While parking can be booked in advance through services like JustPark, with prices starting from £4.50 per day, visitor tips indicate that the car park has been free at times (as of June 2024). Monthly parking options are also available.
While the station itself does not have shops or cafes, the town of Ivybridge is a short walk away and offers various amenities, including pubs and cafes where you can find refreshments after your walk or cycle.
The station itself offers step-free access to both platforms via a metal footbridge with long ramps. For walks, the Erme Valley Trail offers relatively flat sections that may be suitable. However, many Dartmoor trails involve uneven terrain and elevation changes, so it's best to research specific routes for their accessibility before setting out.
The elevation gain varies significantly depending on your chosen route. Walks along the Erme Valley are relatively flat. However, venturing into Dartmoor National Park from Ivybridge will quickly introduce more significant elevation gains, with some trails leading to viewpoints and higher moorland areas that can be quite challenging.
Generally, no specific permits are required for hiking on public rights of way or designated access land within Dartmoor National Park. However, it's always advisable to check the Dartmoor National Park authority's website for any specific restrictions, especially concerning military firing ranges or conservation areas.
As a popular gateway to Dartmoor, the trails closest to Ivybridge Railway Station can see moderate to high foot traffic, particularly on pleasant weekends and during peak holiday seasons. For a less crowded experience, consider exploring some of the less-trafficked paths further into Dartmoor or visiting during weekdays or off-peak hours.
The station does offer bicycle storage facilities. While there are no dedicated bike parking services on the trains themselves, most services have space for at least two bikes. It's highly recommended to reserve a bike space before travel if you plan to bring your bicycle on the train.
Yes, as you ascend into Dartmoor National Park from Ivybridge, you'll encounter numerous opportunities for stunning views. Many trails lead to elevated positions offering panoramic vistas of the moorland, the Erme Valley, and even glimpses of the South Devon coastline on clear days.