- 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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Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Canterbury to Exeter
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Canterbury to Exeter among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $41. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 24m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $41, and a flight costs an average of $331.
Distance: 203 miles (328 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$93 Average price | $52 Average price Cheapest | $447 Average price | $83 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 54m Average total duration Fastest 3h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 23m Average total duration 6h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 33m Average total duration 6h 33m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 31m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Canterbury to Exeter is a bus with an average price of $52 (€43).
This is compared to other travel options from Canterbury to Exeter:
A bus is $41 (€34) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Canterbury to Exeter costing on average $93 (€77).
A bus is $395 (€326) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Canterbury to Exeter costing on average $447 (€369).
The fastest way to travel from Canterbury to Exeter is by train with an average journey time of 3h 24m.
Other travel options to Exeter take longer:
Flight takes on average 6h 33m.
Bus takes on average 6h 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Canterbury and Exeter including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Canterbury to Exeter among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 1h 7m sooner (3h 24m by train vs 4h 31m by car). Tickets start at around $93 (€77) compared to roughly $83 (€69) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Canterbury to Exeter train times
The table below shows live departures for Canterbury to Exeter trains for today, Sunday, June 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 7:23 AM Canterbury | 4h46 | 12:09 PM Exeter | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Canterbury to Exeter by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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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Why should you book Canterbury to Exeter trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway operates all trains services from Canterbury to Exeter.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Canterbury to Exeter.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Canterbury to Exeter.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Canterbury to Exeter.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Canterbury to Exeter
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Canterbury to Exeter run on average 14 times per day, taking around 3h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $85 (€70) but you can travel from only $41 (€34) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:09. The fastest train covers the 203 miles (328 km) distance in 3h 49m.
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
Bus from $41 (€34)
Distance 203 miles (328 km) |
Average train duration 3h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $85 (€70) |
Trains per day 14 |
Fastest train 3h 49m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:09 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Bus from $41 (€34)
Train companies: Great Western Railway from Canterbury to Exeter trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Canterbury and Exeter from $41 (€34). 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
3h 49m
Cheapest Price
$85 (€70)
Great Western Railway frequency
15 a day
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
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 Canterbury to Exeter
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Canterbury 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 Canterbury to Exeter can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $85 (€70), while the average price is around $93 (€77).
The train from Canterbury to Exeter takes 3h 49m and runs 14 per day.
The first train from Canterbury to Exeter leaves at 12:02 AM.
The distance by train from Canterbury to Exeter is 203 miles (328 km).
The last train from Canterbury to Exeter leaves at 11:09 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Canterbury to Exeter.
There is no direct train service currently available from Canterbury to Exeter.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Canterbury to Exeter.
The train station in Canterbury that goes to Exeter is Canterbury West (CBW), which connects to Exeter St Davids (EXD).
The cheapest way to get from Canterbury to Exeter is by bus, with a cost of around $41 (€34).
The train journey from Canterbury to Exeter offers a mix of scenic views, including picturesque countryside, charming towns, and glimpses of the coastline, especially as the route nears Exeter.
A day trip from Canterbury to Exeter is not feasible, as the journey duration is 3h 49m. However, there are 14 train trips available per day. The distance is 203 miles (328 km).
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 Canterbury to Exeter.
Since neither Canterbury 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, Barnstaple, Exmouth, Bath.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Canterbury 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 Canterbury to Exeter
Canterbury
Exeter
The major train station for departures in Canterbury is Canterbury West. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Canterbury West for your trip from Canterbury to Exeter.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:15 - 19:30 Saturday 06:15 - 19:30 Sunday 08:30 - 17:00 Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains.
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs
- Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: two within concourse
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Wheelchairs available open hours: Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: Platform 1 - Available during staffing hours
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: Platform 1 - Available during staffing hours
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Only available when staff present
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Heated waiting room on platforms 1 and 2 Only available when staff present
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: downside platform - London end
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point
- Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Canterbury West
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Station forecourt
Amenities at train station
ParkingDining
ATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:10 - 20:20 Saturday 06:10 - 20:20 Sunday 07:30 - 19:00 This station is not continuously staffed please see staffing times for details of when staff are available.
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs
- Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The Ticket Vending Machines's can only be accessed when the station building is open as they are in the booking hall
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: Platform 2 - Available during staffing hours
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: Platform 2 - Available during staffing hours
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Only available when staff present
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Heated waiting room on both platforms Only available when staff present
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Platform 2
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point
- Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Canterbury East
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement bus stop in Station Road East, opposite the station entrance.
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 Canterbury.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost 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
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
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
Most popular train connections from Canterbury
More options for your journey from Canterbury to Exeter
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Exeter and Canterbury
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