Trains to Exeter

Mon 28 Sept
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Popular departures

Train tickets to Exeter

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Showing the fastest and cheapest results for 28 Sept

Results include alternative arrival locations to Exeter
  • South Western RailwayL79464
    20:203h47
    London Waterloo (WAT)
    0:07Exeter St Davids (EXD)
    £371One-way
    0 changes
  • South Western RailwayL79384
    13:204h03
    London Waterloo (WAT)
    17:23Exeter St Davids (EXD)
    £471One-way
    0 changes
  • South Western RailwayL79384+Great Western RailwayY80282
    13:204h29
    London Waterloo (WAT)
    17:49St James' Park (SJP)
    £501One-way
    1 change

Best day trips from Exeter by train

The most popular day trips by train from Exeter are Bristol, Bath, Plymouth, Taunton and Torquay. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Exeter on Omio.

A view of Bristol

Day trip from Exeter to Bristol by train

Why visit Bristol for the day?

Bristol is known for its maritime past, inventive culture and distinctive street art. Around the harbourside and Clifton, historic landmarks and a strong independent scene give the city an energetic but relaxed feel.

How to get from Exeter to Bristol by train?

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:52, the last at 23:53. The fastest train covers the 104 km distance in 55m.

A view of Bath

Day trip from Exeter to Bath by train

Why visit Bath for the day?

Bath is known for its Roman Baths, graceful Georgian architecture and links to Jane Austen. Its compact centre feels elegant yet lively, with historic streets, independent shops and a long-standing spa culture.

How to get from Exeter to Bath by train?

The earliest train runs at 01:55, the last at 23:29. The fastest train covers the 109 km distance in 1h 8m.

A view of Plymouth

Day trip from Exeter to Plymouth by train

Why visit Plymouth for the day?

Plymouth is a naval city in Devon known for its strong maritime history and broad waterfront. The Hoe and Barbican shape its character, while the university gives it a modern, lived-in feel.

How to get from Exeter to Plymouth by train?

There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 59 km distance in 52m.

A view of Taunton

Day trip from Exeter to Taunton by train

Why visit Taunton for the day?

Taunton is Somerset’s county town, known for Taunton Castle, riverside walks and a strong cricket tradition. Its market-town centre and Georgian streets give it a calm, practical character.

How to get from Exeter to Taunton by train?

There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:18, the last at 23:18. The fastest train covers the 44 km distance in 22m.

A view of Torquay

Day trip from Exeter to Torquay by train

Why visit Torquay for the day?

Torquay is a seaside town in Devon, known for its palm-lined harbour, mild climate and Agatha Christie connections. It combines Victorian character with marina views, nearby beaches and an easy-going English Riviera atmosphere.

How to get from Exeter to Torquay by train?

There are 17 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:29. The fastest train covers the 29 km distance in 28m.

How to get to Exeter by Train

Exeter is well served by trains with seven national rail stations in the city. The main one is Exeter St. Davids which is only a 15 minute walk from the city centre. Exeter St. Davids Station can be reached on direct train routes from both London Paddington Station and London Waterloo Station. Routes also run from Plymouth, Paignton and Exmouth making this a useful hub for holiday and business travellers. It is well served by local buses and taxi companies. Trains also run from London Waterloo into Exeter Central, conveniently located only 5 minutes on foot from the city centre.

Exeter

Exeter is a great place to visit both for a holiday or a short break. Whether you like history, cultural activities or the open air you will find plenty here. Visit Quay House Visitor Centre in the Dock area and explore both Exeter's maritime history and 2000 years of Devon's history. Historic buildings worth visiting are the Exeter Guildhall and Tucker's Hall in the city. Tucker's Hall is a good example of a medieval building that used to house the Guild of Weavers, Fullers and Shearman, so important to Exeter's wealth in the past. A museum that is always popular with visitors is St. Nicholas Priory, where you can experience Tudor life from the guest wing of a 900 year old Priory. Exeter is a compact city great for exploring on foot, with many tourist routes available from the Tourist Information Office. For a longer walk, or even a cycle, follow the Exeter Ship Canal, a popular destination for both land and river activities.

Popular trains to and from Exeter

Popular trains to Exeter

Chesham to Exeter train

Direct trains available

Bristol to Exeter train

from £7
Direct trains available
0h56 average duration
16trains per day
Served by
  • CrossCountry
  • Great Western Railway

London to Exeter train

from £11
Direct trains available
1h57 average duration
85trains per day
Served by
  • Great Western Railway
  • South Western Railway
  • CrossCountry

Liverpool to Exeter train

from £43
Direct trains available
4h00 average duration
14trains per day
Served by
  • CrossCountry
  • Transport for Wales
  • Great Western Railway

London Heathrow Airport to Exeter train

from £48
Direct trains available
2h15 average duration
18trains per day
Served by
  • Great Western Railway
  • CrossCountry
  • South Western Railway

Popular trains from Exeter

Exeter to Bristol train

from £7
Direct trains available
0h55 average duration
15trains per day
Served by
  • CrossCountry
  • Great Western Railway

Exeter to London train

from £11
Direct trains available
2h02 average duration
102trains per day
Served by
  • Great Western Railway
  • South Western Railway
  • CrossCountry

Exeter to Bath train

from £18
Direct trains available
1h08 average duration
20trains per day
Served by
  • CrossCountry
  • Great Western Railway

Exeter to Milton Keynes train

from £47
Direct trains available
3h01 average duration
25trains per day
Served by
  • Great Western Railway
  • CrossCountry
  • South Western Railway

Exeter to London Heathrow Airport train

from £48
Direct trains available
2h17 average duration
18trains per day
Served by
  • Great Western Railway
  • CrossCountry
  • South Western Railway

How to get to Exeter by Train

Exeter is well served by trains with seven national rail stations in the city. The main one is Exeter St. Davids which is only a 15 minute walk from the city centre. Exeter St. Davids Station can be reached on direct train routes from both London Paddington Station and London Waterloo Station. Routes also run from Plymouth, Paignton and Exmouth making this a useful hub for holiday and business travellers. It is well served by local buses and taxi companies. Trains also run from London Waterloo into Exeter Central, conveniently located only 5 minutes on foot from the city centre.

Exeter

Exeter is a great place to visit both for a holiday or a short break. Whether you like history, cultural activities or the open air you will find plenty here. Visit Quay House Visitor Centre in the Dock area and explore both Exeter's maritime history and 2000 years of Devon's history. Historic buildings worth visiting are the Exeter Guildhall and Tucker's Hall in the city. Tucker's Hall is a good example of a medieval building that used to house the Guild of Weavers, Fullers and Shearman, so important to Exeter's wealth in the past. A museum that is always popular with visitors is St. Nicholas Priory, where you can experience Tudor life from the guest wing of a 900 year old Priory. Exeter is a compact city great for exploring on foot, with many tourist routes available from the Tourist Information Office. For a longer walk, or even a cycle, follow the Exeter Ship Canal, a popular destination for both land and river activities.

Train companies: Great Western Railway, South Western Railway, CrossCountry to Exeter trainsTravel to Exeter on Great Western Railway, South Western Railway, CrossCountry trains with Omio. When comparing schedules and tickets, we will also show you other options with multiple connections or other travel modes if they’re available.

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
1h 57m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£35
Great Western Railway frequency
64 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
2h 58m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£11
South Western Railway frequency
37 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

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 CrossCountry Duration
2h 27m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£60
CrossCountry frequency
2 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

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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

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.

station information and facilities

Train stations in Exeter

Check where to Exeter trains depart and arrive, plus the main train station details for this route.

Exeter St DavidsExeter St Davids station, Bonhay Road, Exeter, Devon, EX4 4NT+44 3451652030WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
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 CentralExeter Central station, Queen Street, Exeter, Devon, EX4 3SB+44 3451652030WifiShoppingParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
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.

Exeter St ThomasExeter St Thomas station, Cowick Street, Exeter, Devon, EX4 1AJWifiParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
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.

Trains to Exeter: related information

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