- Must visit
Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery
City museum with local history, archaeology, world cultures and changing exhibitions in a landmark Victorian building.
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Travel Information
Compare coach, train and flight for Bedford to Exeter
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Bedford to Exeter among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £49. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 30m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £49, and a flight costs an average of £304.
Distance: 264 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£61 Average Price | £55 Average Price Cheapest | £328 Average Price |
5h 0m Average total duration Fastest 4h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 24m Average total duration 6h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 53m Average total duration 4h 53m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Bedford to Exeter train times
The table below shows live departures for Bedford to Exeter trains for today, Thursday 6 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 V04631+ C38278+ W45520 | 8:16 Bedford station (BDM) | 3h47 | 12:03 Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 2 changes | |
| V04631 · C48010+W45520+C38278 | 8:16 Bedford station (BDM) | 4h16 | 12:32 Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 3 changes | |
G14979+W45523+ Tube from London St Pancras International to London Paddington | 8:46 Bedford station (BDM) | 4h21 | 13:07 Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 2 changes | |
| G14979+W45523+C38335 | 8:46 Bedford station (BDM) | 4h21 | 13:07 Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 2 changes | |
| W34797+W45525+C38380 | 9:16 Bedford station (BDM) | 3h57 | 13:13 Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 2 changes | |
| W34797 · C48015+C38380+W45525 | 9:16 Bedford station (BDM) | 4h15 | 13:31 Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 3 changes | |
 L83693 · L79363+ C04222+Tube from London St Pancras International to Vauxhall | 9:41 Bedford station (BDM) | 5h01 | 14:42 Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 3 changes | |
| G14983+X83307+Tube from London St Pancras International to London Paddington | 10:16 Bedford station (BDM) | 3h56 | 14:12 Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 2 changes | |
| G14983 · C48021+X83307+Tube from London St Pancras International to London Paddington | 10:16 Bedford station (BDM) | 4h15 | 14:31 Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 3 changes | |
| G14984 · C48025+W32976+Tube from London St Pancras International to London Paddington | 10:46 Bedford station (BDM) | 4h46 | 15:32 Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 3 changes | |
| G14984 · C48025+W32976+C38505 | 10:46 Bedford station (BDM) | 4h46 | 15:32 Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 3 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bedford to Exeter by coach, train or flight
Compare coach, train and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Bedford to Exeter trains with Omio?
South Western Railway as well as Thameslink offer trains services from Bedford to Exeter.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bedford to Exeter.
Why book with Omio vs South Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for South Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink to find the best option for your trip from Bedford to Exeter.
- 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.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare South Western Railway with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bedford to Exeter.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink to find the best option for your trip from Bedford to Exeter.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Bedford to Exeter.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bedford to Exeter
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bedford to Exeter run on average 14 times per day, taking around 4h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £49 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 22:13. The fastest train covers the 264 km distance in 4h 13m.
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 264 km |
Average train duration 4h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price £49 |
Trains per day 14 |
Fastest train 4h 13m |
First train 0:02 |
Last train 22:13 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Train companies: South Western Railway, Thameslink from Bedford to Exeter trainsSouth Western Railway, Thameslink trains will get you between Bedford and Exeter from £49. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
South Western Railway
About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 44m
Cheapest Price
£49
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone
Thameslink
About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 28m
Cheapest Price
£201
Thameslink frequency
12 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Exeter
Things to do in Exeter
Discover the best of Exeter — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Exeter trip today.
- Recommended
Exeter's Underground Passages
Underground medieval passages beneath the city, explored on guided tours that reveal Exeter’s engineering and history.
- Recommended
The Bill Douglas Cinema Museum
Working print museum with historic presses, typesetting equipment and hands-on insight into traditional printing methods.
- Must visit
Exeter Quayside
Historic quay with waterside walks, canal heritage, independent shops and easy access to cycling and boat trips.
- Recommended
Northernhay Gardens
Well-kept Victorian park with broad lawns, flower beds, mature trees and links to the castle and city walls.
- Recommended
Gandy Street
Historic shopping street lined with timber-framed buildings, independent businesses and one of Exeter’s most distinctive walks.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Devon cider brandy
A cider brandy from nearby Topsham, distilled from West Country cider apples. It is a long-standing Devon drink linked to the area’s orchards.
Devon split and ham
Traditional Devon split bread roll filled with thick slices of cured ham. It is a classic county snack and picnic staple around Exeter.
- Vegetarian
Devon fairings
Sweet fried dough pieces once sold at Devon fairs, often dusted with sugar. They are a nostalgic West Country treat associated with local baking.
Rendezvous Wine Bar
Stylish city-centre restaurant serving modern British cooking with Devon produce. Smart but approachable setting for a more refined meal.
The Old Firehouse
Historic quayside pub known for pies, British classics and local drinks. Relaxed atmosphere in one of Exeter’s most characterful old buildings.
Exeter Farmers Market
Lively indoor market food hall with several independent traders. Good for sampling local produce, casual meals and coffee in a social setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: stays and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals remain manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- 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
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafés: rounding up is fine. Taxis: round up or add about 10% for good service.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city centre
Exeter St Davids -> Exeter city centre
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Buses from Exeter St Davids run to the city centre, but the centre is also about a 15-minute walk from the station.
- Contactless payment is available on Stagecoach buses. Check the operator app before travel for the best-value day ticket.
FAQs: Bedford to Exeter train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bedford to Exeter 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 Exeter, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Bedford to Exeter can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £49, while the average price tends to be around £61.
The train journey from Bedford to Exeter covers a distance of 264 km and takes approximately 4h 13m. Trains run 14 per day.
The train distance from Bedford to Exeter is 264 km.
The first train from Bedford to Exeter leaves at 0:02.
The last train from Bedford to Exeter departs at 22:13.
Trains from Bedford to Exeter run approximately 14 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Bedford to Exeter.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Bedford to Exeter.
To get from Bedford to Exeter, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Bedford to Exeter.
The train station in Bedford that goes to Exeter is Bedford station (BDM), and it arrives at Exeter St Davids (EXD).
The cheapest way to get from Bedford to Exeter is by train, costing approximately £49.
Booking trains from Bedford to Exeter in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Bedford to Exeter offers scenic views, particularly as it traverses the rolling hills and picturesque countryside of the South West, including glimpses of the River Exe and the charming Devon landscape.
A day trip from Bedford to Exeter is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 13m each way. The distance is 264 km, and the frequency is 12 times per day for trains.
Two to three days in Exeter is ideal to explore its historic sites, enjoy the stunning quayside, and visit nearby attractions like Dartmoor National Park.
Yes, you can take the train from Bedford to Exeter.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bedford and Exeter
Most Bedford to Exeter trains use the Bedford to Exeter St Davids station pair, with some services arriving at Exeter St Thomas. Use this guide to compare Bedford and Exeter train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bedford
Arrival train stations in Exeter
Which Bedford station do trains to Exeter leave from?
Trains from Bedford to Exeter leave from Bedford. The station is 1 km from Bedford city centre at Bedford station, Ashburnham Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK40 1DS.
BedfordBedford station, Ashburnham Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK40 1DS
Bedford train station facilities and services
Bedford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bedford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bedford. ATMs are available at Bedford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bedford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bedford: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bedford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bedford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms via lifts. Assistance Meeting Point is adjacent to the taxi rank at the front of the station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Bedford St JohnsBedford St Johns station, Melbourne Street, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK42 9AN
City-centre transport
Getting to Bedford St Johns from Bedford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesIn the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from the Medbourne Road car park, by the path leading to the platform. Please check the direction of travel before boarding.
Bedford St Johns train station facilities and services
Bedford St Johns has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bedford St Johns.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bedford St Johns: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Bedford St Johns: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bedford St Johns: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Exeter station do trains from Bedford arrive at?
Trains from Bedford to Exeter most often arrive at Exeter St Davids. Some services arrive at Exeter St Thomas, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Exeter arrival station.
Exeter St DavidsExeter St Davids station, Bonhay Road, Exeter, Devon, EX4 4NT+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Exeter St Davids from Exeter city centre
Exeter St Davids is 1 km from Exeter city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus355, 6A, 5B, 4A, 4, 66 · 6m · £2 · every ~20 min
4, 4A, Uni, K · 8m · £2 · every ~19 min
Exeter St Davids train station facilities and services
Exeter St Davids 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 Exeter St Davids.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter St Davids. ATMs are available at Exeter St Davids.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Exeter St Davids.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Exeter St Davids: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Exeter St Davids: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter St Davids: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step free Category A station - All platforms can be accessed via Lifts from the sole main station entrance. 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: Public telephones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, 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.
Exeter St ThomasExeter St Thomas station, Cowick Street, Exeter, Devon, EX4 1AJ
City-centre transport
Getting to Exeter St Thomas from Exeter city centre
Exeter St Thomas is 1 km from Exeter city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainExmouth - Paignton · 21m · £0.90 · every ~2 min
BusA, B, C, E, P · 9m · £2 · every ~44 min
Exeter St Thomas train station facilities and services
Exeter St Thomas has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Exeter St Thomas.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter St Thomas.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Exeter St Thomas: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Exeter St Thomas: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter St Thomas: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step free Category C Station - This station does not have step free access to any platform. 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 taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Exeter CentralExeter Central station, Queen Street, Exeter, Devon, EX4 3SB+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Exeter Central from Exeter city centre
BusH, K, Uni, 4A, 4 · 3m · £2 · every ~27 min
Exeter Central train station facilities and services
Exeter Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Exeter Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Exeter Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Exeter Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Exeter Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step free Category A station - Both platforms can be accessed via lifts from the main station entrance, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, 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.
Most popular train connections from Bedford
More options for your journey from Bedford to Exeter
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Exeter and Bedford
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