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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC)
Showing times and prices for 19 Jun
Cheapest price
£59
Average price
£98
Fastest journey
1 h 48 m
Average duration
2 h 1 m
Trains per day
37
Distance
87 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) will cost around £98 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £59.
Fast trains
Of the 37 trains that leave Cardiff Central (CDF) for Exeter Central (EXC) every day 9 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 87 km distance in an average of 2 h 1 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 48 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 10 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
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8:002h31Cardiff Central (CDF)10:31Exeter Central (EXC)£591One-way0 changes- 9:002h32Cardiff Central (CDF)11:32Exeter Central (EXC)£591One-way0 changes
- 10:002h32Cardiff Central (CDF)12:32Exeter Central (EXC)£591One-way0 changes
- 11:002h31Cardiff Central (CDF)13:31Exeter Central (EXC)£591One-way0 changes
- 12:002h32Cardiff Central (CDF)14:32Exeter Central (EXC)£591One-way0 changes
- 16:211h48Cardiff Central (CDF)18:09Exeter Central (EXC)£1231One-way1 change
- 7:491h56Cardiff Central (CDF)9:45Exeter Central (EXC)£1231One-way1 change
- 8:382h05Cardiff Central (CDF)10:43Exeter Central (EXC)£1231One-way1 change
- 10:192h06Cardiff Central (CDF)12:25Exeter Central (EXC)£1231One-way1 change
- 6:572h10Cardiff Central (CDF)9:07Exeter Central (EXC)£1171One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC)
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 13m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £17, and a train costs an average of £21.
Distance: 87 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£36 Average Price | £20 Average Price Cheapest |
2h 43m Average total duration Fastest 2h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 16m Average total duration 3h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) trains for today, Thursday 18 June. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17:27 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h47 | 20:14 Exeter Central (EXC) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Friday 19 June | |||||
| 6:28 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h16 | 8:44 Exeter Central (EXC) | 1 change | |
| 6:57 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h10 | 9:07 Exeter Central (EXC) | 1 change | |
| 7:49 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h56 | 9:45 Exeter Central (EXC) | 1 change | |
| 8:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h31 | 10:31 Exeter Central (EXC) | 1 change | |
| 8:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h31 | 10:31 Exeter Central (EXC) | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:38 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h05 | 10:43 Exeter Central (EXC) | 1 change | |
| 9:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h32 | 11:32 Exeter Central (EXC) | 1 change | |
| 9:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h32 | 11:32 Exeter Central (EXC) | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:28 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h15 | 11:43 Exeter Central (EXC) | 1 change | |
| 10:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h32 | 12:32 Exeter Central (EXC) | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:19 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h06 | 12:25 Exeter Central (EXC) | 1 change | |
| 10:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h13 | 12:43 Exeter Central (EXC) | 1 change | |
| 11:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h31 | 13:31 Exeter Central (EXC) | 1 change | |
| 11:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h31 | 13:31 Exeter Central (EXC) | 0 changesdirect | |
| 11:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h14 | 13:44 Exeter Central (EXC) | 1 change | |
| 12:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h32 | 14:32 Exeter Central (EXC) | 1 change | |
| 12:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h32 | 14:32 Exeter Central (EXC) | 0 changesdirect | |
| 12:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h14 | 14:44 Exeter Central (EXC) | 1 change | |
| 13:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h32 | 15:32 Exeter Central (EXC) | 1 change | |
| 13:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h32 | 15:32 Exeter Central (EXC) | 0 changesdirect | |
| 13:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h13 | 15:43 Exeter Central (EXC) | 1 change | |
| 14:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h21 | 16:21 Exeter Central (EXC) | 1 change | |
| 14:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h21 | 16:21 Exeter Central (EXC) | 0 changesdirect | |
| 14:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h13 | 16:43 Exeter Central (EXC) | 1 change | |
| 15:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h16 | 17:46 Exeter Central (EXC) | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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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19 Jun
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20 Jun
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Why should you book Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC).
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC).
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC).
- 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC).
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC).
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC).
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC)
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £21 but you can travel from only £17 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 07:27, the last at 17:27. The fastest train covers the 87 km distance in 2h 30m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £17
Distance 87 km |
Average train duration 2h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price £21 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 30m |
First train 7:27 |
Last train 17:27 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £17
Train companies: CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) trainsCrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Cardiff Central (CDF) and Exeter Central (EXC) from £17. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 30m
Cheapest Price
£21
CrossCountry frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 44m
Cheapest Price
£58
Great Western Railway frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 48m
Cheapest Price
£59
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
16 a day
FAQs: Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) 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 Central (EXC), this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £21, while the average price tends to be around £36.
The train journey from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) covers a distance of 87 km and takes approximately 2h 30m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) is 87 km.
The first train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) leaves at 7:27.
The last train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) departs at 17:27.
Trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC).
Yes, there is a direct train between Cardiff Central (CDF) and Exeter Central (EXC). The service operates 0 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway (GWR).
To get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC), you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) is by coach, costing approximately £17.
Booking trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Cardiff Central to Exeter Central offers varied scenery, including views of the Severn Estuary, picturesque countryside, and charming towns, making it a visually appealing trip.
A day trip from Cardiff Central to Exeter Central isn't feasible as the journey takes 2h 30m, which exceeds the 120-minute limit for a day trip. However, trains run 8 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC).
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff Central (CDF) and Exeter Central (EXC)
Cardiff
Exeter
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your trip from Cardiff to Exeter.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Cardiff Central
- Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
- Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)
The major train station for arrivals in Exeter is Exeter Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Exeter Central for your journey to Exeter from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 07:50 - 18:15 Saturday 07:50 - 18:15 Sunday 09:30 - 16:30
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Taxis
- Taxi: Yes
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 2. The National key toilets are operated by a RADAR key. The RADAR key is available from station staff upon request
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The radar key is available from station staff
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Both platforms
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Exeter Central
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Bus stop at the front of the station on Queens Street
Most popular train connections from Cardiff Central (CDF)
More options for your journey from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC)
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Exeter Central (EXC) and Cardiff Central (CDF)
Most popular train connections to Exeter Central (EXC)
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