- 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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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chelmsford to Exeter
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 02 Nov
- Cheapest price on 02 Nov
- £171
- Average ticket price on 02 Nov
- £171
- Fastest journey on 02 Nov
- 3 h 3 m
- Average journey duration on 02 Nov
- 3 h 10 m
- Trains on 02 Nov
- 24
- Distance
- 300 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chelmsford to Exeter is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chelmsford to Exeter will cost around £171 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £171.
Fast trains
To travel from Chelmsford to Exeter you need to make at least 2 changes.
5:56 3h31 Chelmsford 9:27 Exeter £171 1 One-way 2 changes7:05 3h03 Chelmsford 10:08 Exeter £171 1 One-way 2 changes8:02 3h11 Chelmsford 11:13 Exeter £171 1 One-way 2 changes8:34 3h20 Chelmsford 11:54 Exeter £171 1 One-way 2 changes8:43 3h21 Chelmsford 12:04 Exeter £171 1 One-way 2 changes
7:05 3h03 Chelmsford 10:08 Exeter £171 1 One-way 2 changes10:55 3h05 Chelmsford 14:00 Exeter £171 1 One-way 2 changes8:02 3h11 Chelmsford 11:13 Exeter £171 1 One-way 2 changes11:55 3h16 Chelmsford 15:11 Exeter £171 1 One-way 2 changes12:55 3h17 Chelmsford 16:12 Exeter £171 1 One-way 2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chelmsford to Exeter
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chelmsford to Exeter run on average 11 times per day, taking around 3h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £35 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 300 km distance in 2h 48m.
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 300 km |
Average train duration 3h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price £35 |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 2h 48m |
First train 0:02 |
Last train 23:58 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Chelmsford to Exeter trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Chelmsford to Exeter.
The cost of a train ticket from Chelmsford to Exeter can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £35, while the average price tends to be around £65.
The train journey from Chelmsford to Exeter covers a distance of 300 km and takes approximately 2h 48m. Trains run 11 per day.
The train distance from Chelmsford to Exeter is 300 km.
The first train from Chelmsford to Exeter leaves at 0:02.
The last train from Chelmsford to Exeter departs at 23:58.
Trains from Chelmsford to Exeter run approximately 11 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Chelmsford to Exeter.
Live departures
Chelmsford to Exeter train times
The table below shows live departures for Chelmsford to Exeter trains for today, Sunday 1 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:25 Chelmsford | 3h40 | 11:05 Exeter | 2 changes | |
| 8:59 Chelmsford | 3h11 | 12:10 Exeter | 2 changes | |
| 9:31 Chelmsford | 3h29 | 13:00 Exeter | 2 changes | |
| 9:59 Chelmsford | 3h12 | 13:11 Exeter | 2 changes | |
| 10:59 Chelmsford | 3h10 | 14:09 Exeter | 2 changes | |
| 11:31 Chelmsford | 3h28 | 14:59 Exeter | 2 changes | |
| 11:59 Chelmsford | 3h11 | 15:10 Exeter | 2 changes | |
| 12:59 Chelmsford | 3h11 | 16:10 Exeter | 2 changes | |
| 13:59 Chelmsford | 3h25 | 17:24 Exeter | 2 changes | |
| 14:59 Chelmsford | 3h10 | 18:09 Exeter | 2 changes | |
| 15:31 Chelmsford | 3h31 | 19:02 Exeter | 2 changes | |
| 15:59 Chelmsford | 3h14 | 19:13 Exeter | 2 changes | |
| 16:59 Chelmsford | 3h12 | 20:11 Exeter | 2 changes | |
| 17:59 Chelmsford | 3h11 | 21:10 Exeter | 2 changes | |
| 18:59 Chelmsford | 3h31 | 22:30 Exeter | 2 changes | |
| 19:59 Chelmsford | 3h12 | 23:11 Exeter | 2 changes | |
| 21:59 Chelmsford | 5h22 | 3:21 Exeter | 2 changes | |
| Monday 2 November | |||||
| 5:56 Chelmsford | 3h31 | 9:27 Exeter | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Chelmsford to Exeter trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as South Western Railway offer trains services from Chelmsford to Exeter.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chelmsford to Exeter.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Chelmsford 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chelmsford to Exeter.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Chelmsford to Exeter.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Chelmsford to Exeter.
Train companies: Great Western Railway, South Western Railway from Chelmsford to Exeter trainsGreat Western Railway, South Western Railway trains will get you between Chelmsford and Exeter from £35. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Great Western Railway Duration
2h 48m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£51
Great Western Railway frequency
8 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
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 South Western Railway Duration
4h 10m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£35
South Western Railway frequency
4 a day
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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Chelmsford and Exeter
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Chelmsford to Exeter.
Yes, there is a night train from Chelmsford to Exeter.
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.
Plan your visit to Exeter
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Exeter.
The train journey from Chelmsford to Exeter offers a variety of landscapes, including views of the countryside, rolling hills, and coastal scenery as it approaches Exeter, making it a scenic route for travellers.
FAQs: Chelmsford to Exeter train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chelmsford 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.
Booking trains from Chelmsford to Exeter in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Chelmsford to Exeter.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chelmsford and Exeter
Most Chelmsford to Exeter trains use the Chelmsford to Exeter St Davids station pair, with some services arriving at Exeter St Thomas. Use this guide to compare Chelmsford and Exeter train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Chelmsford
Arrival train stations in Exeter
Which Chelmsford station do trains to Exeter leave from?
Trains from Chelmsford to Exeter leave from Chelmsford. The station is from Chelmsford city centre at Chelmsford station, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1HT.
ChelmsfordChelmsford station, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1HT+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chelmsford from Chelmsford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement transport stop at the bus stop on Victoria Road by station entrance
Chelmsford train station facilities and services
Chelmsford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chelmsford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Chelmsford. ATMs are available at Chelmsford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chelmsford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chelmsford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chelmsford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chelmsford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, 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.
Which Exeter station do trains from Chelmsford arrive at?
Trains from Chelmsford 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 · £1 · 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.
Train stations for Chelmsford to Exeter
Check train stations information for Chelmsford and Exeter, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Chelmsford that goes to Exeter is Chelmsford, and it arrives at Exeter St Davids.
Most popular train connections from Chelmsford
More options for your journey from Chelmsford to Exeter
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Exeter and Chelmsford
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