Exeter St Davids (EXD) (Train Station): Departures and guide

Travel from Exeter city center to Exeter St. Davids train station

As the heart and capital of Devon, Exeter has layer upon layer of history from its Gothic cathedral and medieval streets to fragments of Roman remains and elegant Georgian residences. Cobbled streets full of quirky and unique shops contrast with the vitality of a modern shopping center. The nightlife is buzzing and the revitalized quayside is the perfect place to chill whether it's in cafes and restaurants or on the water in a kayak. It's also the perfect base for getting out and about and exploring the Devon countryside. Exeter St. Davids is the city's main train station. It's a graceful historic building and, originally dating from 1844, was one of the earliest train stations to be built in the United Kingdom. The present station building is late-Victorian. From the city center, where visitors will find the cathedral, a winding maze of streets, and the modern shopping mall, it is an easy walk to the station. In fact, Exeter is so compact that all of its major attractions can be reached on foot. There is, however, a good network of local buses including routes linking the city center to the station.

What is the best way to get to Exeter St. Davids train station from the city center?

The Exeter St. Davids train station is located just under a mile (1.5 kilometers) northwest of the city green on which the cathedral stands. The station entrance is on Isambard Parade, a road named in honor of one of the world's most famous engineers, Isambard Kingdom Brunel, who played a big role in developing Britain's rail network. A parking lot, taxi stand, and bus stops can all be found immediately outside the station. To walk to Exeter St. Davids from the cathedral or Princesshay Center, visitors should walk up Queen Street passing the Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery. At the roundabout, bear second left onto New North Road then, at the mini-roundabout turn left onto Howell Road. Go straight over St. Davids Hill at the next roundabout to join Isambard Parade and cross Bonhay Road to enter the station. The journey can also be made by bus using routes that include 5, 6, 55, 56, H, and D. These stop at both Princesshay and the cathedral.

How far is it from the city center to the Exeter St. Davids train station?

Taking a leisurely walk from the city center to the station, admiring the attractions and architecture of Exeter along the way, takes a comfortable 20 minutes. If there is time to spare, take a detour down Parliament Street. It is said to be the narrowest street in the UK. Or, if the sun is shining, enjoy a stroll around Bury Meadow Park. Taking the bus from Princesshay or the cathedral takes approximately ten minutes depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.

How accessible is the Exeter St. Davids train station for those with limited mobility?

Within the constraints of a historic building, the Exeter St. Davids train station has been made as accessible as possible for those with limited mobility. There is step-free access from the parking lot into the station entrance, the ticket hall, waiting room. Elevators assist passengers to the platforms. Disabled passengers can be picked up or dropped off at the station entrance, wheelchairs are available to borrow, and further assistance can be pre-booked if required. Where trains have steps, ramps are available. Although the booking office counter is not lowered, there are accessible ticket machines. There are adapted restrooms at the station with key access and for the hearing-impaired, induction loops at key points. There is also easy access to the newsagent, cafe, and food kiosk. Service animals are welcome in all areas of the station.

Local tips: points of interest in or near the Exeter St. Davids train station?

Depending on the time to spare, passengers will find plenty to see and do in Exeter before heading to St. Davids train station in time to catch their train. With parts dating from the 12th and 13th-century, Exeter Cathedral with its soaring, lavishly decorated ceilings and the world's longest span of unbroken Gothic vaulting should definitely be at the top of any visitor's must-see list. In contrast, Exeter Quay is an outdoor space of canal walks, cobbled paths, and former warehouses that now house antique emporiums, quirky stores, cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Perfect for a drink and a bit of people watching, especially in the spring and summer. Walking from the Quay along the River Exe to the station takes between 20 and 30 minutes.