- Recommended
Deva Roman Experience
Interactive museum exploring Roman Chester with artefacts, reconstructions and family-friendly displays that bring Deva’s military past to life.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Exeter to Chester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 13 Oct
Cheapest price on 13 Oct
£216
Average ticket price on 13 Oct
£260
Fastest journey on 13 Oct
4 h 10 m
Average journey duration on 13 Oct
4 h 30 m
Trains on 13 Oct
10
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 £260 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £216.
Fast trains
To travel from Exeter to Chester you need to make at least one change.
6:254h53Exeter11:18Chester£2161One-way1 change- 8:274h51Exeter13:18Chester£2161One-way1 change
- 10:564h22Exeter15:18Chester£2161One-way1 change
- 6:254h48Exeter11:13Chester£2791One-way2 changes
- 7:204h47Exeter12:07Chester£2791One-way2 changes
- 10:564h10Exeter15:06Chester£2791One-way2 changes
- 10:564h22Exeter15:18Chester£2161One-way1 change
- 12:274h38Exeter17:05Chester£2791One-way2 changes
- 8:274h39Exeter13:06Chester£2791One-way2 changes
- 9:274h40Exeter14:07Chester£2791One-way2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Exeter to Chester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Exeter to Chester run on average 14 times per day, taking around 4h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £57 but you can travel from only £30 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 03:39, the last at 19:56. The fastest train covers the 278 km distance in 3h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £30
Distance 278 km |
Average train duration 4h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price £57 |
Trains per day 14 |
Fastest train 3h 48m |
First train 3:39 |
Last train 19:56 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
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 £30
Live departures
Exeter to Chester train times
The table below shows live departures for Exeter to Chester trains for tomorrow, Tuesday 13 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:25 Exeter | 4h48 | 11:13 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 6:25 Exeter | 4h53 | 11:18 Chester | 1 change | |
| 7:20 Exeter | 4h47 | 12:07 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 8:27 Exeter | 4h39 | 13:06 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 8:27 Exeter | 4h51 | 13:18 Chester | 1 change | |
| 9:27 Exeter | 4h40 | 14:07 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 10:56 Exeter | 4h10 | 15:06 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 10:56 Exeter | 4h22 | 15:18 Chester | 1 change | |
| 11:27 Exeter | 4h40 | 16:07 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 12:27 Exeter | 4h38 | 17:05 Chester | 2 changes | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Exeter to Chester trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales 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 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 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.
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry from Exeter to Chester trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry trains will get you between Exeter and Chester from £30. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Transport for Wales Duration
4h 14m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£57
Transport for Wales frequency
6 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
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
3h 48m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£89
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
Complete guide to Chester
Things to do in Chester
Discover the best of Chester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chester trip today.
- Recommended
Cheshire Military Museum
Museum in a former mill on the River Dee, covering Chester’s social history, period rooms and local stories from Roman times onward.
- Recommended
Dewa Roman Experience
Museum inside Chester Castle tracing regional regiments through uniforms, medals and campaigns in a compact but informative setting.
- Must visit
Chester Rows
Chester’s two-level covered walkways lined with historic shopfronts, ideal for browsing architecture and experiencing the city’s character.
- Recommended
The Groves
Pleasant riverside promenade beside the Dee, popular for walks, boat views and access to bridges, green spaces and the old city centre.
- Recommended
Grosvenor Park
Victorian park near the river with broad lawns, mature trees, bandstand and a peaceful setting for a break from the busy city centre.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cheshire Cheese
A crumbly local cheese from Cheshire, often served on bread or in recipes. It is one of England’s oldest recorded cheeses and closely tied to the county.
- Vegetarian
Cheshire Fruit Loaf
A traditional fruit loaf linked with nearby Cheshire and the North West, made with dried fruit and spice, often sliced and buttered for tea.
Steak And Kidney Pudding
A historic English pudding of suet pastry filled with meat and onion. It is a hearty regional comfort dish long found in Cheshire pubs and homes.
Upstairs At The Grill
Elegant restaurant focused on modern British cooking and tasting menus. A refined choice for a special meal in central Chester.
Jaunty Goat Coffee
Long-established local favourite for hearty breakfasts, lunches and baked goods. Relaxed café atmosphere in the centre of Chester.
Opera Grill
Well-known riverside and city-centre restaurant serving modern British food with steaks, grills and cocktails in a stylish but relaxed setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are cheaper than London, but tourist areas can feel pricey. Buses are reasonable, while central stays cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or tip about 10%. Cafés and pubs: tipping is optional, though small change is appreciated for table service.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- /u00a32.00
- Day pass
- £2.50
To the city centre
Chester Railway Station -> Chester Bus Interchange, Chester
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Park & Ride tickets can be bought from the driver with cash or contactless card, and are also available in the Stagecoach Bus app.
- Chester station has a RailLink bus from directly outside the station to the city centre. Park & Ride buses serve Chester Bus Interchange and Foregate Street.
Best day trips from Chester by train
The most popular day trips by train from Chester are Liverpool, Manchester, Birmingham, Shrewsbury and Llandudno. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Chester on Omio.
Day trip from Chester to Liverpool by train
Why visit Liverpool for the day?
Liverpool is known for The Beatles, football and a waterfront shaped by its maritime past. Its grand docks, museums and lively city centre give it a proud, creative character.
How to get from Chester to Liverpool by train?
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:19, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 25 km distance in 37m.
Day trip from Chester to Manchester by train
Why visit Manchester for the day?
Manchester is known for its industrial heritage, influential music and deep football culture. Red-brick canalside areas, major museums and lively nightlife give it an energetic northern character.
How to get from Chester to Manchester by train?
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 54 km distance in 40m.
Day trip from Chester to Birmingham by train
Why visit Birmingham for the day?
Birmingham is known for its industrial past, canal network and diverse food scene. It combines major shopping and cultural landmarks with lively neighbourhoods shaped by manufacturing, music and modern city life.
How to get from Chester to Birmingham by train?
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:28, the last at 22:56. The fastest train covers the 103 km distance in 1h 10m.
Day trip from Chester to Shrewsbury by train
Why visit Shrewsbury for the day?
Shrewsbury is a historic market town in Shropshire, known for medieval streets, timber-framed buildings and the River Severn. Birthplace of Charles Darwin, it has a compact centre with independent shops, old churches and a calm traditional feel.
How to get from Chester to Shrewsbury by train?
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 54 km distance in 49m.
Day trip from Chester to Llandudno by train
Why visit Llandudno for the day?
Llandudno is a Victorian seaside town on the north Wales coast, known for its broad bay and graceful promenade. The Great Orme rises above the town, giving it a scenic, traditional character and easy access to nearby Conwy and Snowdonia.
How to get from Chester to Llandudno by train?
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:35, the last at 21:51. The fastest train covers the 64 km distance in 58m.
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.
The cost of a train ticket from Exeter to Chester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £57, while the average price tends to be around £98.
The train journey from Exeter to Chester covers a distance of 278 km and takes approximately 3h 48m. Trains run 14 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 14 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.
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).
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.
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 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 · £0.89 · 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.
Which Chester station do trains from Exeter arrive at?
Trains from Exeter to Chester arrive at Chester. Chester is 1 km from Chester city centre.
ChesterChester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chester from Chester city centre
Chester is 1 km from Chester city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus100, 16 · 4m · £4 · every ~2 min
Chester train station facilities and services
Chester has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Chester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chester: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access is available to all platforms via lifts, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, 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: Yes.
More options for your journey from Exeter to Chester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chester and Exeter
Most popular train connections to Chester
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