- 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 Reading to Exeter
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$100
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$109
Fastest journey on Sep 18
7 h 10 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
7 h 18 m
Buses on Sep 18
6
Distance
196 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Reading to Exeter is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Exeter will cost around $109 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $100.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Reading to Exeter without transferring at least 2 times.
RRRA1 · NX202 · NX10112:25 PM7h10Reading, Blagrave Street7:35 PMExeter, Honiton Road$1001One-way2 transfers- RRRA1 · NX202 · NX10112:25 PM7h20Reading, Blagrave Street7:45 PMExeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court$1001One-way2 transfers
- RRRA1 · NX201 · NX1015:25 AM7h15Reading, Blagrave Street12:40 PMExeter, Honiton Road$1101One-way2 transfers
- RRRA1 · NX201 · NX1015:25 AM7h25Reading, Blagrave Street12:50 PMExeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court$1101One-way2 transfers
- RRRA1 · NX200 · NX1047:41 AM7h29Reading, Blagrave Street3:10 PMExeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court$1161One-way2 transfers
- RRRA1 · NX202 · NX10112:25 PM7h10Reading, Blagrave Street7:35 PMExeter, Honiton Road$1001One-way2 transfers
- RRRA1 · NX201 · NX1015:25 AM7h15Reading, Blagrave Street12:40 PMExeter, Honiton Road$1101One-way2 transfers
- RRRA1 · NX200 · NX1047:41 AM7h19Reading, Blagrave Street3:00 PMExeter, Honiton Road$1161One-way2 transfers
- RRRA1 · NX202 · NX10112:25 PM7h20Reading, Blagrave Street7:45 PMExeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court$1001One-way2 transfers
- RRRA1 · NX201 · NX1015:25 AM7h25Reading, Blagrave Street12:50 PMExeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court$1101One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Reading to Exeter
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Exeter among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $91 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 27m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $91, while a flight costs an average of $507.
Distance: 121 miles (196 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$91 Average price Cheapest | $105 Average price | $507 Average price | $50 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 59m Average total duration 5h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 27m Average total duration Fastest 1h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 44m Average total duration 2h 44m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 2h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 Reading to Exeter is a bus with an average price of $91 (€74).
This is compared to other travel options from Reading to Exeter:
A bus is $14 (€11) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Reading to Exeter costing on average $105 (€86).
A bus is $417 (€341) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Reading to Exeter costing on average $507 (€415).
The fastest way to travel from Reading to Exeter is by train with an average journey time of 1h 57m.
Other travel options to Exeter take longer:
Flight takes on average 2h 44m.
Bus takes on average 5h 29m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Reading and Exeter including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading 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 $91 (€74) compared to roughly $50 (€41) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-40.67 (€-33.28). The journey takes 5h 29m versus 2h 52m 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.
Reading to Exeter Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:25AM | Arrival Time 11:40AM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $96 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:25AM | Arrival Time 12:50PM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $94 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:27AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 8h03 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:41AM | Arrival Time 03:10PM | Duration 7h29 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $116 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:21AM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 8h14 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:27AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 8h03 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $99 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 05:25PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $90 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:56AM | Arrival Time 06:15PM | Duration 7h19 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:43AM | Arrival Time 06:15PM | Duration 6h32 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $96 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 07:35PM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $100 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:43PM | Arrival Time 01:55AM | Duration 8h12 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $84 |
Live departures
Reading to Exeter bus times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Exeter buses for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RRRA1 · NX201 · NX101 | 5:25 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 7h15 | 12:40 PM Exeter, Honiton Road | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX201 · NX101 | 5:25 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 7h25 | 12:50 PM Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX200 · NX104 | 7:41 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 7h29 | 3:10 PM Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX200 · NX104 | 7:41 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 7h19 | 3:00 PM Exeter, Honiton Road | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX202 · NX101 | 12:25 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 7h10 | 7:35 PM Exeter, Honiton Road | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX202 · NX101 | 12:25 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 7h20 | 7:45 PM Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Reading to Exeter by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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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Sep 18
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Sep 24
Why should you book Reading to Exeter buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Reading to Exeter.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading 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 FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Reading 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Exeter.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Exeter.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Exeter.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Reading to Exeter
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Reading to Exeter run on average 3 times per day, taking around 5h 29m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $76 (€62) but you can travel from only $58 (€47) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 00:09, the last at 22:28. The fastest bus covers the 121 miles (196 km) distance in 5h 0m.
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 $58 (€47)
Distance 121 miles (196 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $76 (€62) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 5h 0m |
First bus 12:09 AM |
Last bus 10:28 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
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 $58 (€47)
Bus providers: National Express from Reading to ExeterYou can travel by bus between Reading to Exeter with National Express for as low as $58 (€47). 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
5h 0m
Cheapest National Express Price
$76 (€62)
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.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Exeter, Sidwell Street (City Centre) -> Exeter St David's Station
- Distance
- 1.8 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Exeter. Ask for the cheapest valid fare if you are unsure.
- The £2.00 single fare cap applies on many local bus journeys in England, but check operator conditions before travel.
FAQs: Bus from Reading to Exeter
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading 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 Reading to Exeter can start from as little as $76 (€62) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Reading to Exeter is $91 (€74) ; 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 Reading to Exeter is 5h 0m to travel the 121 miles (196 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 Reading to Exeter leaves at 12:09 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Reading to Exeter leaves at 10:28 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Reading to Exeter which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Reading to Exeter, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Exeter. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Reading and Exeter and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Reading , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Reading, Blagrave Street, Three Mile Cross, Mereoak Lane - Park & Ride . 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 Reading, Blagrave Street, 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 Reading is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Reading to Exeter is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Reading and Exeter including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Reading to Exeter for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Reading to Exeter:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Reading to Exeter depends on the bus companies:
- 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.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express, FlixBus.
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 Reading to Exeter.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Reading to Exeter:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Reading to Exeter:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Reading to Exeter. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Reading to Exeter with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Reading to Exeter with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Reading to Exeter with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Since neither Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading to Exeter
Most Reading to Exeter buses use the Reading, Blagrave Street to Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court station pair, with some services arriving at Exeter, Honiton Road. Use this guide to compare Reading and Exeter bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Reading
Arrival bus stations in Exeter
Which Reading station do buses to Exeter leave from?
Buses from Reading to Exeter leave from Reading, Blagrave Street. The station is from Reading city centre at Reading RG1 1PZ, UK.
Reading, Blagrave StreetReading RG1 1PZ, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading, Blagrave Street from Reading city centre
Bus19a, 19c · 1h 21m · $2
Reading, Blagrave Street bus station facilities and services
Reading, Blagrave Street has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading, Blagrave Street: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Which Exeter station do buses from Reading arrive at?
Buses from Reading 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 Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Exeter
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Exeter and Reading
Most popular bus connections to Exeter
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