- Must visit
Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery
Excellent city museum and gallery with archaeology, natural history, and world cultures; the best all-round museum in Exeter.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Barnstaple to Exeter
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 15
Cheapest price on Sep 15
$50
Average ticket price on Sep 15
$50
Fastest journey on Sep 15
4 h 10 m
Average journey duration on Sep 15
4 h 10 m
Buses on Sep 15
2
Distance
54 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Barnstaple to Exeter is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Barnstaple to Exeter will cost around $50 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $50.
Fast buses
On Tue, Sep 15, we found 2 buses from Barnstaple to Exeter, including 2 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 15 the direct buses cover the 54 km distance in an average of 4 h 10 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 10 m .
On Tue, Sep 15 the slowest buses will take 4 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.
8:40 AM4h10Barnstaple12:50 PMExeter$501One-way0 transfers- 7:40 AM4h10Barnstaple11:50 AMExeter$511One-way0 transfers
- 8:40 AM4h10Barnstaple12:50 PMExeter$501One-way0 transfers
- 7:40 AM4h10Barnstaple11:50 AMExeter$511One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Barnstaple to Exeter
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Barnstaple to Exeter among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $13 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 39m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $13, while a bus costs an average of $48.
Distance: 33 miles (54 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$48 Average price | $13 Average price Cheapest | $16 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 0m Average total duration 2h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 39m Average total duration Fastest 1h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 12m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Barnstaple to Exeter is a train with an average price of $13 (€10).
This is compared to other travel options from Barnstaple to Exeter:
A train is $35 (€28) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Barnstaple to Exeter costing on average $48 (€39).
The fastest way to travel from Barnstaple to Exeter is by train with an average journey time of 1h 9m.
Other travel options to Exeter take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Barnstaple and Exeter including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Barnstaple to Exeter among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $48 (€39) compared to roughly $16 (€13) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-31.87 (€-25.81). The journey takes 2h 30m versus 1h 12m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Barnstaple to Exeter Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 11:50AM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 11:50AM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 12:50PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Great Western Railway | Departure Time 08:35AM | Arrival Time 10:05AM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $12 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 12:50PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator Great Western Railway | Departure Time 11:07AM | Arrival Time 01:11PM | Duration 2h04 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $12 |
Operator Great Western Railway | Departure Time 01:05PM | Arrival Time 02:33PM | Duration 1h28 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $12 |
Operator Great Western Railway | Departure Time 01:57PM | Arrival Time 03:32PM | Duration 1h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $12 |
Operator Great Western Railway | Departure Time 07:14PM | Arrival Time 08:54PM | Duration 1h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $12 |
Operator Great Western Railway | Departure Time 11:05PM | Arrival Time 12:43AM | Duration 1h38 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $12 |
Live departures
Barnstaple to Exeter bus times
The table below shows live departures for Barnstaple to Exeter buses for today, Monday, September 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:40 AM Barnstaple | 4h10 | 11:50 AM Exeter | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:35 AM Barnstaple | 1h30 | 10:05 AM Exeter | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:40 AM Barnstaple | 4h10 | 12:50 PM Exeter | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:14 PM Barnstaple | 1h40 | 8:54 PM Exeter | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:05 PM Barnstaple | 1h38 | 12:43 AM Exeter | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Barnstaple to Exeter by bus or train
Compare bus and 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.
Tue
Sep 15
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Why should you book Barnstaple to Exeter buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Megabus, Taw & Torridge, Country Bus and more offer buses services from Barnstaple to Exeter.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Barnstaple to Exeter.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus, Taw & Torridge or Country Bus to find the best option for your trip from Barnstaple 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 National Express with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Barnstaple to Exeter.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus, Taw & Torridge or Country Bus to find the best option for your trip from Barnstaple to Exeter.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Barnstaple to Exeter.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Barnstaple to Exeter
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Barnstaple to Exeter run on average 2 times per day, taking around 2h 30m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $45 (€36) but you can travel from only $12 (€10) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 05:24, the last at 23:05. The fastest bus covers the 33 miles (54 km) distance in 2h 25m.
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
Train from $12 (€10)
Distance 33 miles (54 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $45 (€36) |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 2h 25m |
First bus 5:24 AM |
Last bus 11:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Train from $12 (€10)
Bus providers: National Express from Barnstaple to ExeterYou can travel by bus between Barnstaple to Exeter with National Express for as low as $12 (€10). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average National Express Duration
2h 25m
Cheapest National Express Price
$45 (€36)
National Express frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.
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.
- Recommended
Topsham Museum and Paper Mill
Interactive museum inside a working paper mill where visitors learn traditional papermaking and local industrial heritage.
- Recommended
Topsham Museum
Small independent museum in a Tudor merchant’s house, showing Topsham’s river trade, local stories, and period interiors.
- Must visit
Northernhay Gardens
Medieval city wall segment and gardens offering one of Exeter’s best walks, with lawns, ruins, and broad urban views.
- Must visit
Exeter Quayside
Historic quay lined with warehouses, canal heritage, walks, and waterside activity; one of Exeter’s most characterful areas.
- Recommended
Cathedral Green
Attractive urban park beside the cathedral, ideal for relaxing and appreciating surrounding historic buildings in the city centre.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Clotted Cream
A rich Devon cream made from slowly heated milk. It is a county staple, famously served on scones in a Devon cream tea.
- Vegetarian
Devon Cream Tea
Traditional Devon cream tea pairs scones with jam and clotted cream, with cream spread before jam in the local style.
- Gluten-free
Devonshire Junket Pie
A hearty baked pudding of layers of potato, onion, and lamb or beef. It is a long-standing Devon farmhouse dish.
Lympstone Manor
Fine dining restaurant known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service in central Exeter.
Rendezvous Wine Bar
Popular modern eatery with seasonal small plates, brunch, and a lively casual atmosphere near the city centre.
The Old Firehouse
Historic quayside pub serving local ales and British classics in a characterful former warehouse by the water.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are mid-priced, buses are reasonable, and attractions are often low-cost versus larger UK tourist cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- 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. Taxis: round up or add 10%. Cafes: tipping is optional, small change appreciated.
FAQs: Bus from Barnstaple to Exeter
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Barnstaple to Exeter by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Exeter, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Barnstaple to Exeter can start from as little as $45 (€36) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Barnstaple to Exeter is $48 (€39) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Barnstaple to Exeter is 2h 25m to travel the 33 miles (54 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Barnstaple to Exeter leaves at 5:24 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Barnstaple to Exeter leaves at 11:05 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Barnstaple to Exeter which require at least one change with National Express, Megabus, Taw & Torridge, Country Bus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Barnstaple to Exeter, you can count on National Express, Megabus, Taw & Torridge, Country Bus for the best way to get you to Exeter. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Barnstaple and Exeter and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Barnstaple , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station), Bickington, Bickington Road / North Lane, Fremington, Church Hill / Old School Lane . When arriving in Exeter , you can end your journey in bus stations like Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court, Exeter, Honiton Road .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station), which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Exeter from Barnstaple is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Barnstaple to Exeter is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Barnstaple and Exeter including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Barnstaple to Exeter:
- Megabus
- Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Barnstaple to Exeter for bus company National Express, Megabus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Barnstaple to Exeter depends on the bus companies:
- Megabus
- Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
- National Express
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Barnstaple to Exeter.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Barnstaple to Exeter:
- Megabus
- One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Barnstaple to Exeter:
- Megabus
- Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Barnstaple to Exeter.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Barnstaple to Exeter with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Barnstaple to Exeter with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Barnstaple to Exeter with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Since neither Barnstaple nor Exeter are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Barnstaple to Exeter among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Exeter, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and near popular attractions. Be wary of unofficial taxi services and always use licensed providers to avoid scams. Additionally, travelers should protect personal belongings on public transport and stay alert to common fraud attempts such as overcharging or counterfeit tickets.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Barnstaple to Exeter
Most Barnstaple to Exeter buses use the Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station) to Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court station pair, with some services arriving at Exeter, Honiton Road. Use this guide to compare Barnstaple and Exeter bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Barnstaple
Arrival bus stations in Exeter
Which Barnstaple station do buses to Exeter leave from?
Buses from Barnstaple to Exeter leave from Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station). The station is from Barnstaple city centre at Silver St, Barnstaple EX32 8RL, UK.
Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station)Silver St, Barnstaple EX32 8RL, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station) from Barnstaple city centre
Bus301, 155, 21C, 29, 21B, 310, 309, 303, 19 · 3m · $2 · every ~10 min
Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station) bus station facilities and services
Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station). ATMs are available at Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station): Ramp and accessible toilets available.
Which Exeter station do buses from Barnstaple arrive at?
Buses from Barnstaple to Exeter most often arrive at Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court. Some services arrive at Exeter, Honiton Road, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Exeter arrival station.
Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover CourtExeter Coach Station, Bampfylde St, Exeter EX1 2JX, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court from Exeter city centre
Bus173 · 5m · $1 · every ~1 min
A, E · 6m · $2 · every ~21 min
Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court bus station facilities and services
Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court. ATMs are available at Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court: Wheelchair accessible.
Exeter, Honiton RoadHoniton Road, Exeter, EX2 7NL, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Exeter, Honiton Road from Exeter city centre
Exeter, Honiton Road is 3 km from Exeter city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus9, 9A, 44, 44A, 4A, 4 · 13m · $2 · every ~29 min
9, 9A, 44, 44A, 4A, 4 · 14m · $2 · every ~29 min
Coly 8 · 18m
78 · 33m
Exeter, Honiton Road bus station facilities and services
Exeter, Honiton Road has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café in the station (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Exeter, Honiton Road.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Exeter, Honiton Road: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter, Honiton Road: Ramps.
Most popular bus connections from Barnstaple
More options for your journey from Barnstaple to Exeter
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Exeter and Barnstaple
Most popular bus connections to Exeter
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