- Must visit
Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery
Exeter’s main museum and gallery, known for collections on Devon history, world cultures, fine art, and natural history. A strong first stop for understanding the city.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Barnstaple to Exeter
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$12
Average price
$12
Fastest journey
1 h 6 m
Average duration
1 h 7 m
Trains per day
10
Distance
54 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train 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 $12 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $12.
Fast trains
Of the 10 trains that leave Barnstaple for Exeter on Sat, Jun 20, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 54 km distance in an average of 1 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 6 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 1 h 8 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.
C01602 · C480018:34 AM1h59Barnstaple station (BNP)10:33 AMExeter St Thomas (EXT)$121One-way1 transfer- C42673 · C4801110:35 AM1h57Barnstaple station (BNP)12:32 PMExeter St Thomas (EXT)$121One-way1 transfer
- C4267310:35 AM1h08Barnstaple station (BNP)11:43 AMExeter St Davids (EXD)$121One-way0 transfers
- C01607 · C4801611:35 AM2h03Barnstaple station (BNP)1:38 PMExeter St Thomas (EXT)$121One-way1 transfer
- C01604 · C480059:35 AM1h57Barnstaple station (BNP)11:32 AMExeter St Thomas (EXT)$121One-way1 transfer
- C0160711:35 AM1h06Barnstaple station (BNP)12:41 PMExeter St Davids (EXD)$121One-way0 transfers
- C016091:35 PM1h06Barnstaple station (BNP)2:41 PMExeter St Davids (EXD)$121One-way0 transfers
- C016049:35 AM1h06Barnstaple station (BNP)10:41 AMExeter St Davids (EXD)$121One-way0 transfers
- C4267310:35 AM1h08Barnstaple station (BNP)11:43 AMExeter St Davids (EXD)$121One-way0 transfers
- C016028:34 AM1h08Barnstaple station (BNP)9:42 AMExeter St Davids (EXD)$121One-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 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 train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$12 Average price Cheapest | $42 Average price | $15 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 41m Average total duration Fastest 1h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 42m Average total duration 3h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 12m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus 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 train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 1m faster (1h 11m by train vs 1h 12m by car) and roughly $3 (€3) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($12 (€10) vs $15 (€13)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Great Western Railway (GWR).
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Barnstaple to Exeter train times
The table below shows live departures for Barnstaple to Exeter trains for tomorrow, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C01602 · C48001 | 8:34 AM Barnstaple station (BNP) | 1h59 | 10:33 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
| C01602 | 8:34 AM Barnstaple station (BNP) | 1h08 | 9:42 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C01604 · C48005 | 9:35 AM Barnstaple station (BNP) | 1h57 | 11:32 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
| C01604 | 9:35 AM Barnstaple station (BNP) | 1h06 | 10:41 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C42673 | 10:35 AM Barnstaple station (BNP) | 1h08 | 11:43 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C42673 · C48011 | 10:35 AM Barnstaple station (BNP) | 1h57 | 12:32 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
| C01607 | 11:35 AM Barnstaple station (BNP) | 1h06 | 12:41 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C01607 · C48016 | 11:35 AM Barnstaple station (BNP) | 2h03 | 1:38 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
| C42675 | 12:32 PM Barnstaple station (BNP) | 1h11 | 1:43 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C01609 | 1:35 PM Barnstaple station (BNP) | 1h06 | 2:41 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 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.
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
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Jun 25
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Jun 26
Jun 26
Why should you book Barnstaple to Exeter trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains 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 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 Great Western Railway (GWR) 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 Great Western Railway 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?
- 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: Train from Barnstaple to Exeter
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Barnstaple to Exeter run on average 17 times per day, taking around 1h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $8 (€7) if you book in advance.
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:09, the last at 23:13. The fastest train covers the 33 miles (54 km) distance in 1h 4m.
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
Distance 33 miles (54 km) |
Average train duration 1h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $8 (€7) |
Trains per day 17 |
Direct trains 10 |
Fastest train 1h 4m |
First train 12:09 AM |
Last train 11:13 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 2 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
Train companies: Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Barnstaple to Exeter trainsGreat Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Barnstaple and Exeter from $8 (€7). 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 Duration
1h 4m
Cheapest Price
$8 (€7)
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
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 1m
Cheapest Price
$49 (€40)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
10 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 moving images, cinema, and visual media.
- Recommended
Spacex
Contemporary visual arts gallery in Exeter with changing exhibitions by regional and national artists. A local favorite for independent art programming.
- Must visit
Exeter Quayside
One of the city’s most popular walking areas, combining waterside views, heritage buildings, and a lively atmosphere.
- Must visit
Cathedral Green
Broad open space beside the cathedral, ideal for appreciating Exeter’s historic core and one of the city’s most photographed spots.
- Recommended
Gandy Street
Characterful central lane known for independent shops and medieval atmosphere. Popular with visitors seeking a picturesque old-city feel.
- Vegetarian
Devon Cream Tea
Fresh scones served with clotted cream and strawberry jam, traditionally done the Devon way with cream first. A classic county treat strongly associated with Devon.
- Vegetarian
Devonshire Split
A soft enriched bread roll, often filled with jam and clotted cream. It is a traditional Devon bakery item and a local teatime favourite.
- Vegetarian
Hevva Cake
A traditional West Country fruit cake made with flour, butter, sugar and dried fruit. Though more strongly linked with the wider South West, it is familiar in Devon tearooms and bakeries.
The Conservatory
A long-established independent restaurant in central Exeter known for polished modern British cooking, attentive service and a smart but relaxed atmosphere.
Rendezvous Wine Bar
A well-regarded city-centre restaurant and wine bar serving Mediterranean-influenced dishes, seafood and steaks in an intimate cellar-style setting.
Harry's Restaurant
A busy and established Exeter favourite with a broad menu of comfort food, grills and local staples, popular for its lively and casual atmosphere.
Pound Sterling
Costs are moderate by UK standards. Pubs and casual dining are reasonable, while hotels and fine dining cost more in peak periods.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-30 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included only at some restaurants. If not added, tip about 10% for good service. Round up taxi fares. Tipping is not expected for counter service.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.80
To the city center
Exeter St Davids, Exeter -> Exeter City Centre, Exeter
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Most local buses in Exeter are operated by Stagecoach, and the GBP 2.00 single fare cap is useful for short trips.
- Card and contactless payment are accepted on most Stagecoach buses, and mobile tickets can be bought in the official app.
FAQs: Trains from Barnstaple to Exeter
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Barnstaple 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.
Train ticket prices from Barnstaple to Exeter can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $8 (€7), while the average price is around $12 (€10).
The train from Barnstaple to Exeter takes 1h 4m and runs 17 per day.
The distance by train from Barnstaple to Exeter is 33 miles (54 km).
The first train from Barnstaple to Exeter leaves at 12:09 AM.
The last train from Barnstaple to Exeter leaves at 11:13 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Barnstaple to Exeter.
Yes, there is a direct train from Barnstaple to Exeter. This service operates 10 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway (GWR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Barnstaple to Exeter.
The train station in Barnstaple that goes to Exeter is Barnstaple station (BNP), which connects to Exeter St Davids (EXD).
The cheapest way to get from Barnstaple to Exeter is by train, with a cost of around $8 (€7).
The train journey from Barnstaple to Exeter is considered scenic, offering views of the picturesque countryside, rolling hills, and charming rural landscapes of North Devon.
Yes, a day trip from Barnstaple to Exeter is feasible. The journey takes 1h 4m and covers a distance of 33 miles (54 km). There are 17 trains available per day for this route.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Exeter allows visitors to explore the city's historic sites, such as Exeter Cathedral, the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, and the Quayside, while also enjoying local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Barnstaple to Exeter.
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.
Popular day trips by train from Exeter include Bristol, Plymouth, Exmouth, Bath, Okehampton.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Barnstaple to Exeter among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
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 train stations
Popular train stations from Barnstaple to Exeter
Barnstaple
Exeter
The major train station for departures in Barnstaple is Barnstaple. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Barnstaple for your trip from Barnstaple to Exeter.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:15 - 17:50 Saturday 06:15 - 17:50 Sunday 09:20 - 16:40
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Dining
- Station Masters Cafe
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step free Category A station - step free access available to the platform. 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 public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 1. The National key toilets are operated by a RADAR key. The RADAR key is available from station staff upon request
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The radar key is available from station staff
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Platform
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Barnstaple
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Front of the station
The major train station for arrivals in Exeter is Exeter St Davids. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Exeter St Davids for your journey to Exeter from Barnstaple.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDining
ATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:45 - 20:40 Saturday 06:15 - 20:00 Sunday 07:30 - 20:40 Reservations and tickets requiring reservations are sold at the following times only: Weekdays (Mon-Fri) 08:45 - 19:40, Saturday 08:45 - 18:30 Sunday 10:00 - 17:30
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: WHSmith
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step free Category A station - All platforms can be accessed via Lifts from the sole main station entrance. 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 may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 and 5. The National key toilets are operated by a RADAR key. The RADAR key is available from station staff upon request
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The radar key is available from station staff
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Platform 1 and adjacent entrance
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Exeter St Davids
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Front of the station
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDining
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 07:50 - 18:15 Saturday 07:50 - 18:15 Sunday 09:30 - 16:30
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Taxis
- Taxi: Yes
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step free Category A station - Both platforms can be accessed via lifts from the main station entrance
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
- 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: No
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 2. The National key toilets are operated by a RADAR key. The RADAR key is available from station staff upon request
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The radar key is available from station staff
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Both platforms
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Exeter Central
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Bus stop at the front of the station on Queens Street
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Step free Category C Station - This station does not have step free access to any platform. 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 taxis: Accessible taxis are not available
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Bottom of stairs leading to platform 1
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Exeter St Thomas
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: To Exeter St Davids: Cowick Street bus stop by shopping precint. To Newton Abbot: Cowick Street bus stop outside the station
Most popular train 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 trains to and from Exeter and Barnstaple
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