Exeter to Rugby train with CrossCountry

Fri 18 Sept
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Exeter to Rugby

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept

Cheapest price on 18 Sept

£138

Average ticket price on 18 Sept

£138

Fastest journey on 18 Sept

3 h 28 m

Average journey duration on 18 Sept

3 h 28 m

Trains on 18 Sept

1

Distance

241 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Exeter to Rugby will cost around £138 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £138.

Fast trains

On Fri 18 Sept, we found 1 trains from Exeter to Rugby, including 1 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 241 km distance in an average of 3 h 28 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 28 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 h 28 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.

  • CrossCountry
    12:273h28
    Exeter
    15:55Rugby
    £1381One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train for Exeter to Rugby

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Exeter to Rugby among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £242 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 30m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £242, while a train costs an average of £242.

Distance: 241 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Driving

£242

Average Price

Cheapest

£46

Average Price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 30m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 19m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Exeter to Rugby is a train with an average price of £242.
The fastest way to travel from Exeter to Rugby is by train with an average journey time of 3h 0m.
Yes, you can take a train between Exeter and Rugby.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 19m sooner (3h 0m by train vs 3h 19m by car). Tickets start at around £242 compared to roughly £46 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.

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.

Live departures

Exeter to Rugby train times

The table below shows live departures for Exeter to Rugby trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
CrossCountry10:27 Exeter
3h28
13:55 Rugby0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Exeter to Rugby 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.

Fri
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
Thu
24 Sept

Why should you book Exeter to Rugby trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Exeter to Rugby.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Exeter to Rugby.

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 Rugby.
  • 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 Rugby

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Exeter to Rugby run on average 14 times per day, taking around 3h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £242 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 05:33, the last at 21:15. The fastest train covers the 241 km distance in 3h 14m.

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
241 km
Average train duration
3h 0m
Cheapest ticket price
£242
Trains per day
14
Fastest train
3h 14m
First train
5:33
Last train
21:15
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Apr - Jun
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 Rugby trainsCrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Exeter and Rugby from £242. 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
3h 19m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£51
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 14m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
£242
Cross Country frequency
14 a day

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway (GWR) Duration
3h 39m
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
2 a day

Complete guide to Rugby

Things to do in Rugby

Discover the best of Rugby — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Rugby trip today.

  • Must visit

Rugby Football Museum

Museum on the birthplace of rugby football, with displays on the game’s origins, school history, and memorable sporting artefacts.

  • Recommended

Rugby Art Gallery and Museum

Local history museum with Roman finds, social history displays, and changing exhibitions that introduce Rugby and the wider borough.

  • Recommended

Rugby Art Gallery

Art gallery programme within Rugby Art Gallery and Museum, showing contemporary exhibitions alongside community-focused visual arts events.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Accommodation and dining are usually cheaper than London, while rail fares can be relatively high and local bus costs are manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£15-30 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 usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Tipping in cafés is optional, such as leaving small change.

FAQs: Exeter to Rugby train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Exeter to Rugby can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £242, while the average price tends to be around £242.
The train journey from Exeter to Rugby covers a distance of 241 km and takes approximately 3h 14m. Trains run 14 per day.
The train distance from Exeter to Rugby is 241 km.
The first train from Exeter to Rugby leaves at 5:33.
The last train from Exeter to Rugby departs at 21:15.
Trains from Exeter to Rugby run approximately 14 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Exeter to Rugby.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Exeter to Rugby.
To travel from Exeter to Rugby, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Exeter to Rugby.
The train station in Exeter that goes to Rugby is Exeter St Davids (EXD), and it arrives at Rugby station (RUG).
The cheapest way to get from Exeter to Rugby is by train, costing approximately £242.
Booking trains from Exeter to Rugby 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 Rugby offers some scenic views, especially as it passes through the rolling countryside and lush landscapes of Devon and Somerset, before transitioning into the more urban settings towards the Midlands.
A day trip from Exeter to Rugby is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 14m. Trains run 10 times per day.
To explore Rugby's main attractions, such as the Rugby Football Museum and the historic architecture, 1 to 2 days should be sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Exeter to Rugby.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Exeter and Rugby

Most Exeter to Rugby trains use the Exeter St Davids to Rugby station pair. Use this guide to compare Exeter and Rugby 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 Rugby

Which Exeter station do trains to Rugby leave from?

Trains from Exeter to Rugby 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.

More options for your journey from Exeter to Rugby

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