- Must visit
The Silk Museum
Town museum covering Macclesfield's silk heritage, local history and changing exhibitions in a restored industrial setting.
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Travel Information
Compare train for Exeter to Macclesfield
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Exeter to Macclesfield among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £253 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 4m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £253, while a train costs an average of £253.
Distance: 298 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£253 Average Price Cheapest | £59 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 4m Average total duration Fastest 3h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 8m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Exeter to Macclesfield is a train with an average price of £253.
The fastest way to travel from Exeter to Macclesfield is by train with an average journey time of 3h 34m.
Yes, you can take a train between Exeter and Macclesfield.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 34m sooner (3h 34m by train vs 4h 8m by car). Tickets start at around £253 compared to roughly £59 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Exeter to Macclesfield by train
Compare train 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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Why should you book Exeter to Macclesfield trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Exeter to Macclesfield.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Exeter to Macclesfield.
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 Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Exeter to Macclesfield.
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Exeter to Macclesfield
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Exeter to Macclesfield run on average 15 times per day, taking around 3h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £229 if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:50, the last at 20:46. The fastest train covers the 298 km distance in 3h 36m.
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 298 km |
Average train duration 3h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price £229 |
Trains per day 15 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 36m |
First train 5:50 |
Last train 20:46 |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Train companies: CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Exeter to Macclesfield trainsCrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Exeter and Macclesfield from £229. 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 CrossCountry Duration
4h 2m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£100
CrossCountry frequency
15 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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
3h 36m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
£243
Cross Country frequency
16 a day
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway (GWR) Duration
10h 53m
Cheapest Great Western Railway (GWR) Price
£229
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Macclesfield
Things to do in Macclesfield
Discover the best of Macclesfield — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Macclesfield trip today.
- Must visit
Paradise Mill
Working Jacquard silk mill with looms and guided visits that show how Macclesfield became a centre of silk production.
Macclesfield Bus Station Heritage Centre
Small local museum and archive space preserving the history of Macclesfield's once busy bus and transport network.
- Must visit
Tegg's Nose Country Park
Popular hilltop country park on the edge of town with woodland walks, panoramic views and links to local history.
- Recommended
Market Place
Historic market area with independent shops, civic buildings and regular markets at the heart of Macclesfield.
- Recommended
Macclesfield Canal
Peaceful canal-side walking route with locks, mills and waterside views that reveal the town's industrial heritage.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cheshire Cheese
A crumbly Cheshire cow’s milk cheese with a fresh, tangy taste. It is one of the county’s best-known traditional foods and long associated with local farming.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Blue Cheshire
A strong, salty blue cheese traditionally made in Cheshire. It reflects the county’s dairy heritage and is a classic regional cheese board choice.
- Vegetarian
Eccles Cake
A rich fruit cake from nearby Eccles, often eaten across Greater Manchester and Cheshire. It is packed with currants and commonly served sliced with tea.
Chestergate Bistro
Modern British dining in a polished town-centre setting. Known for seasonal menus, careful cooking and a relaxed but smart atmosphere.
Shalimar Restaurant
Popular Indian restaurant serving classic curries, tandoori dishes and grills in a lively, dependable setting close to the town centre.
Amore Mio
Casual Italian spot serving pizza, pasta and straightforward comfort food. Friendly and family-oriented, it is a well-known local choice.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Manchester or London, while local buses and cafés remain fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Café tipping is optional, usually just small change.
D&G app
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- /n
To the city centre
Macclesfield Railway Station -> Macclesfield Town Hall, Macclesfield
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Macclesfield railway station is within the town centre, so many central destinations are walkable from the station.
- For bus fares and service-specific tickets, Cheshire East directs passengers to check the individual operator fare pages before travel.
FAQs: Exeter to Macclesfield train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Exeter to Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Exeter to Macclesfield can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £229, while the average price tends to be around £253.
The train journey from Exeter to Macclesfield covers a distance of 298 km and takes approximately 3h 36m. Trains run 15 per day.
The train distance from Exeter to Macclesfield is 298 km.
The first train from Exeter to Macclesfield leaves at 5:50.
The last train from Exeter to Macclesfield departs at 20:46.
Trains from Exeter to Macclesfield run approximately 15 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Exeter to Macclesfield.
Yes, there is a direct train between Exeter and Macclesfield. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
To travel from Exeter to Macclesfield, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Exeter to Macclesfield.
The train station in Exeter that goes to Macclesfield is Exeter St Davids (EXD), and it arrives at Macclesfield station (MAC).
The cheapest way to get from Exeter to Macclesfield is by train, costing approximately £229.
Booking trains from Exeter to Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield offers picturesque views, particularly as it passes through the rolling hills of the Cotswolds and the Peak District, providing a scenic experience for travellers.
A day trip from Exeter to Macclesfield is not feasible due to the journey duration of 3h 36m. However, there are 8 train services available per day covering a distance of 298 km.
Typically, spending two to three days in Macclesfield allows visitors to explore key attractions like the Silk Museum, Macclesfield Forest, and the nearby Peak District National Park, while enjoying local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Exeter to Macclesfield.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Exeter and Macclesfield
Most Exeter to Macclesfield trains use the Exeter St Davids to Macclesfield station pair. Use this guide to compare Exeter and Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield
Which Exeter station do trains to Macclesfield leave from?
Trains from Exeter to Macclesfield 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 · £0.90 · 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 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 Macclesfield station do trains from Exeter arrive at?
Trains from Exeter to Macclesfield arrive at Macclesfield. Macclesfield is from Macclesfield city centre.
MacclesfieldMacclesfield station, Waters Green, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK11 6JP
City-centre transport
Getting to Macclesfield from Macclesfield city centre
Bus391 · 3m · every ~1 min
Macclesfield train station facilities and services
Macclesfield has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Macclesfield.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Macclesfield.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Macclesfield.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Macclesfield: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Macclesfield: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Macclesfield: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are no 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 Macclesfield
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Macclesfield and Exeter
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