Penzance to Exeter train with Great Western Railway

Thu 08 Oct
+ Add return
Great Western Railway
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Penzance to Exeter

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 08 Oct

Cheapest price on 08 Oct

£10

Average ticket price on 08 Oct

£18

Fastest journey on 08 Oct

2 h 58 m

Average journey duration on 08 Oct

3 h 3 m

Trains on 08 Oct

3

Distance

157 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Penzance to Exeter will cost around £18 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £10.

Fast trains

On Thu 08 Oct, we found 3 trains from Penzance to Exeter, including 3 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 157 km distance in an average of 3 h 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 58 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 h 10 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
    10:153h10
    Penzance
    13:25Exeter
    £101One-way
    0 changes
  • Great Western Railway
    8:152h58
    Penzance
    11:13Exeter
    £131One-way
    0 changes
  • Great Western Railway
    8:103h02
    Penzance
    11:12Exeter
    £291One-way
    0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Penzance to Exeter

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Penzance to Exeter run on average 17 times per day, taking around 3h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £13 but you can travel from only £9 by coach.

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:10, the last at 21:51. The fastest train covers the 157 km distance in 2h 51m.

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 £9
Distance
157 km
Average train duration
3h 3m
Cheapest ticket price
£13
Trains per day
17
Direct trains
6
Fastest train
2h 51m
First train
4:10
Last train
21:51
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
28 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 £9

Live departures

Penzance to Exeter train times

The table below shows live departures for Penzance to Exeter trains for today, Wednesday 7 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Great Western Railway7:15 Penzance
2h58
10:13 Exeter0 changesdirect
CrossCountry10:15 Penzance
3h10
13:25 Exeter0 changesdirect
CrossCountry11:15 Penzance
4h17
15:32 Exeter0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Penzance to Exeter trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry offer trains services from Penzance to Exeter.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Penzance to Exeter.

Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Penzance to Exeter.
  • 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Penzance to Exeter.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Penzance to Exeter.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Penzance to Exeter.

Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry from Penzance to Exeter trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Penzance and Exeter from £9. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
2h 51m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£13
Great Western Railway frequency
11 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

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 51m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£16
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.

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.

FAQs: Penzance to Exeter train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Penzance to Exeter can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £13, while the average price tends to be around £29.
The train journey from Penzance to Exeter covers a distance of 157 km and takes approximately 2h 51m. Trains run 17 per day.
The train distance from Penzance to Exeter is 157 km.
The first train from Penzance to Exeter leaves at 4:10.
The last train from Penzance to Exeter departs at 21:51.
Trains from Penzance to Exeter run approximately 17 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Penzance to Exeter.
Yes, there is a direct train between Penzance and Exeter. The service operates 6 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway.
There is no night train service from Penzance to Exeter.
The train station in Penzance that goes to Exeter is Penzance station (PNZ), and it arrives at Exeter St Davids (EXD).
Booking trains from Penzance to Exeter in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Penzance to Exeter is considered scenic, offering views of the rugged Cornish coastline, sweeping countryside landscapes, and historic landmarks along the way.
Yes, you can take the train from Penzance to Exeter.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Penzance and Exeter

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

Departure train stations in Penzance
Arrival train stations in Exeter

Which Penzance station do trains to Exeter leave from?

Trains from Penzance to Exeter leave from Penzance. The station is from Penzance city centre at Penzance station, Wharf Road, Penzance, Cornwall, TR18 2LT.
PenzancePenzance station, Wharf Road, Penzance, Cornwall, TR18 2LTWifiParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Penzance from Penzance city centre

Bus39A, 16A, 16, 8, 2, 1, 1A, 4, 4A, 6, 17 · 2m · £2 · every ~19 min

Penzance train station facilities and services

Penzance has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Penzance.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Penzance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Penzance.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Penzance: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Penzance: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Penzance: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A station - This station has step free access to the platforms. 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 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.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Shoreline bed and breakfast by the sea.

More options for your journey from Penzance to Exeter

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

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