- Must visit
Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery
Exeter’s main museum and gallery, with collections on local history, archaeology, natural history and world cultures. A strong first stop for understanding the city.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Barnstaple to Exeter
Showing times and prices for Jun 15
Cheapest price
$48
Average price
$48
Fastest journey
4 h
Average duration
4 h 5 m
Buses per day
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 $48 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $48.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Barnstaple to Exeter without transferring at least once.
NX502 · NX1018:40 AM4h10Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station)12:50 PMExeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court$481One-way1 transfer- NX502 · NX1018:40 AM4h00Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station)12:40 PMExeter, Honiton Road$481One-way1 transfer
- NX502 · NX1018:40 AM4h00Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station)12:40 PMExeter, Honiton Road$481One-way1 transfer
- NX502 · NX1018:40 AM4h10Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station)12:50 PMExeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court$481One-way1 transfer
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 prices starting from $8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 11m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $8, and a bus costs an average of $12.
Distance: 33 miles (54 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$42 Average price | $12 Average price Cheapest | $16 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 42m Average total duration 3h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 41m Average total duration Fastest 1h 11m 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 $12 (€10).
This is compared to other travel options from Barnstaple to Exeter:
A train is $30 (€24) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Barnstaple to Exeter costing on average $42 (€34).
The fastest way to travel from Barnstaple to Exeter is by train with an average journey time of 1h 11m.
Other travel options to Exeter take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 12m.
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. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan 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 Fri | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 11:50AM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $48 |
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 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 $47 |
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 |
Live departures
Barnstaple to Exeter bus times
The table below shows live departures for Barnstaple to Exeter buses for tomorrow, Monday, June 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX502 · NX101 | 8:40 AM Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station) | 4h10 | 12:50 PM Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court | 1 transfer | |
| NX502 · NX101 | 8:40 AM Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station) | 4h00 | 12:40 PM Exeter, Honiton Road | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
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.
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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 3 times per day, taking around 3h 12m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $12 (€10) but you can travel from only $8 (€7) by train.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 05:24, the last at 23:05. The fastest bus covers the 33 miles (54 km) distance in 1h 28m.
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 $8 (€7)
Distance 33 miles (54 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $12 (€10) |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 1h 28m |
First bus 5:24 AM |
Last bus 11:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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
Train from $8 (€7)
Bus providers: National Express, Megabus, Taw & Torridge, Country Bus from Barnstaple to ExeterYou can travel by bus between Barnstaple to Exeter with National Express, Megabus, Taw & Torridge, Country Bus for as low as $8 (€7). 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 Duration
4h 0m
Cheapest Price
$40 (€33)
National Express frequency
3 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.
Megabus
About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 54m
Cheapest Price
$42 (€34)
Luggage included
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).
Additional luggage
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.
Cancellation Policy
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.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
Taw & Torridge
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 11m
Taw & Torridge frequency
1 a day
Country Bus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 11m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
Country Bus frequency
1 a day
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
Bill Douglas Cinema Museum
A specialist museum at the University of Exeter with remarkable collections on the history of cinema, optics and moving images. A local favourite for film and media enthusiasts.
- Recommended
Spacex
An established contemporary visual arts venue in Exeter known for changing exhibitions and experimental programming. Popular with local arts audiences.
- Must visit
Exeter Quayside
A lively waterfront area with historic warehouses, riverside walks and photogenic views. Especially popular for relaxed strolling and social-media-friendly scenery.
- Must visit
Cathedral Green
The open space around Exeter Cathedral, ideal for appreciating the city’s main landmark and surrounding historic streetscape. A classic Exeter viewpoint.
- Recommended
Northernhay Gardens
One of England’s oldest public open spaces, with mature planting, monuments and elevated views near the castle area. A pleasant central retreat.
- Vegetarian
Devon Cream Tea
Freshly baked scones served with strawberry jam and thick Devon clotted cream, traditionally spread jam first in Devon. It is one of the county's most famous treats.
- Vegetarian
Devonshire Splits
Light yeast buns, often served split and filled with jam and clotted cream. A classic West Country tea-time bake associated with Devon.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Devon Blue Cheese
A rich, creamy blue cow's milk cheese made in Devon. It is a notable regional product often served on cheeseboards or in local dishes.
Rendezvous Wine Bar
Well-regarded independent restaurant and wine bar offering refined seasonal cooking and a relaxed, smart atmosphere near the cathedral.
The Conservatory
Long-running independent restaurant in central Exeter known for polished modern British cooking and a cosy, intimate atmosphere.
Harry's Restaurant
Established city-centre favourite serving broad European and British dishes in a lively brasserie setting, popular with both locals and visitors.
Pound Sterling
Generally cheaper than London. Dining and coffee are fairly priced, but central hotels and peak-season stays can raise daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-12 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 50+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is often included only at some restaurants. If not, tip about 10% for good service. Rounding up is fine in taxis. Tipping is not usually expected for pubs or counter service.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.70
To the city center
Exeter, Sidwell Street (City Centre) -> Exeter St Davids Station
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Single bus fares are capped at GBP 2.00 on many routes, but operator conditions can apply so check before travel.
- Card and contactless payment are accepted on most Stagecoach buses in Exeter.
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 $12 (€10) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Barnstaple to Exeter is $42 (€34) ; 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 1h 28m 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.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Barnstaple to Exeter with . Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct 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.
A day trip to Exeter from Barnstaple is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 28m 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, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Barnstaple to Exeter for bus company National Express, Megabus.
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.
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
Barnstaple
Exeter
The major bus station for departures in Barnstaple is Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station) for your trip from Barnstaple to Exeter.
Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Exeter is Exeter, Bampfylde Street (Express Coach Stop 34). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Exeter, Bampfylde Street (Express Coach Stop 34) for your trip to Exeter from Barnstaple.
Exeter, Bampfylde Street (Express Coach Stop 34)
information
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Distance to city center
3 km
Car connection
Honiton RoadWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café in the station (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps
WC
- Available near the waiting area.
Public transit options for Exeter, Honiton Road
- Bus: 4, 9, 56
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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