Exeter to Chester train with CrossCountry

Thu 02 Jul
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Exeter to Chester

Showing times and prices for 02 Jul

Cheapest price

£66

Average price

£67

Fastest journey

4 h 54 m

Average duration

5 h 18 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

278 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Exeter to Chester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Exeter to Chester will cost around £67 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £66.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Exeter for Chester every day 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 278 km distance in an average of 5 h 18 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 54 m .

The slowest trains will take 5 h 42 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.

  • Transport for Wales
    6:255h42
    Exeter
    12:07Chester
    £661One-way
    0 changes
  • Transport for Wales
    9:274h54
    Exeter
    14:21Chester
    £671One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach, train and flight for Exeter to Chester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Exeter to Chester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £35. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 58m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £35, and a flight costs an average of £112.

Distance: 278 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£63

Average Price

£38

Average Price

Cheapest

£130

Average Price

4h 55m

Average total duration

4h 25m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 3m

Average total duration

6h 33m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 58m

Average total duration

Fastest

58m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Exeter to Chester train times

The table below shows live departures for Exeter to Chester trains for tomorrow, Thursday 2 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Transport for Wales6:25 Exeter
5h42
12:07 Chester0 changesdirect
Transport for Wales9:27 Exeter
4h54
14:21 Chester0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Exeter to Chester 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.

Thu
02 Jul
Fri
03 Jul
Sat
04 Jul
Sun
05 Jul
Mon
06 Jul
Tue
07 Jul
Wed
08 Jul

Why should you book Exeter to Chester trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more offer trains services from Exeter to Chester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Exeter to Chester.

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 Transport for Wales, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Exeter to Chester.
  • 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Exeter to Chester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Exeter to Chester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Exeter to Chester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Exeter to Chester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Exeter to Chester run on average 18 times per day, taking around 4h 25m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £55 but you can travel from only £35 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 03:39, the last at 19:56. The fastest train covers the 278 km distance in 4h 54m.

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 £35
Distance
278 km
Average train duration
4h 25m
Cheapest ticket price
£55
Trains per day
18
Fastest train
4h 54m
First train
3:39
Last train
19:56
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
7 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £35

Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Exeter to Chester trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Exeter and Chester from £35. 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
4h 54m
Cheapest Price
£55
CrossCountry frequency
10 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

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 54m
Cheapest Price
£64
Transport for Wales frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 10m
Cheapest Price
£179
Cross Country frequency
16 a day

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11h 23m
Cheapest Price
£266
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Exeter to Chester train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Exeter to Chester 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 Chester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Exeter to Chester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £55, while the average price tends to be around £63.
The train journey from Exeter to Chester covers a distance of 278 km and takes approximately 4h 54m. Trains run 18 per day.
The train distance from Exeter to Chester is 278 km.
The first train from Exeter to Chester leaves at 3:39.
The last train from Exeter to Chester departs at 19:56.
Trains from Exeter to Chester run approximately 18 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Exeter to Chester.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Exeter to Chester.
To get from Exeter to Chester, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Exeter to Chester.
The train station in Exeter that goes to Chester is Exeter St Davids (EXD), and it arrives at Chester station (CTR).
The cheapest way to get from Exeter to Chester is by coach, costing approximately £35.
Booking trains from Exeter to Chester in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Exeter to Chester offers a picturesque experience, featuring rolling countryside, charming villages, and glimpses of the Welsh hills, making it a visually pleasant trip.
A day trip from Exeter to Chester is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 54m. However, there are 16 trains available per day. The distance is 278 km.
In Chester, you can visit Chester Zoo, one of the UK's largest zoos, or explore the Grosvenor Museum for local history and art. Enjoy a walk or boat trip along the River Dee, or experience cultural offerings at Storyhouse. The Cheshire Military Museum provides insights into military history. Don't miss the stunning Chester Cathedral, the historical Chester Roman Amphitheatre, and the well-preserved Chester City Walls for panoramic views. The Eastgate Clock and The Rows offer iconic sights and unique shopping experiences.
A stay of two to three days in Chester is typically sufficient to explore its historic sites, such as Chester Cathedral, the Roman walls, and the Rows, while also enjoying local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Exeter to Chester.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Exeter and Chester

Most Exeter to Chester trains use the Exeter St Davids to Chester station pair. Use this guide to compare Exeter and Chester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Exeter
Arrival train stations in Chester

Which Exeter station do trains to Chester leave from?

Trains from Exeter to Chester leave from Exeter St Davids. The station is 1 km from Exeter city centre at Exeter St Davids station, Bonhay Road, Exeter, Devon, EX4 4NT.
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 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.

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.

More options for your journey from Exeter to Chester

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrain Times to Chester Exeter to Chester train

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