Canterbury to Exeter train with Great Western Railway

Thu, May 14
+ Add return
Great Western Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Canterbury to Exeter

Showing times and prices for May 14

Cheapest price

$94

Average price

$96

Fastest journey

3 h 49 m

Average duration

3 h 51 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

328 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Canterbury to Exeter is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Canterbury to Exeter will cost around $96 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $94.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Canterbury for Exeter on Thu, May 14, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, May 14 the direct trains cover the 328 km distance in an average of 3 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 49 m .

On Thu, May 14 the slowest trains will take 3 h 52 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.

  • Great Western Railway
    9:21 AM3h51
    Canterbury
    1:12 PMExeter
    $941One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western Railway
    10:23 AM3h49
    Canterbury
    2:12 PMExeter
    $941One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western Railway
    1:23 PM3h52
    Canterbury
    5:15 PMExeter
    $1011One-way
    0 transfers

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 $42. 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 $42, and a flight costs an average of $340.

Distance: 203 miles (328 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$96

Average price

$53

Average price

Cheapest

$460

Average price

$86

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 $53 (€43).

This is compared to other travel options from Canterbury to Exeter:

A bus is $43 (€34) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Canterbury to Exeter costing on average $96 (€77).

A bus is $407 (€326) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Canterbury to Exeter costing on average $460 (€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 $96 (€77) compared to roughly $86 (€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 tomorrow, Thursday, May 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western Railway9:21 AM Canterbury
3h51
1:12 PM Exeter0 transfersDirect
Great Western Railway10:23 AM Canterbury
3h49
2:12 PM Exeter0 transfersDirect
Great Western Railway1:23 PM Canterbury
3h52
5:15 PM Exeter0 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.

Thu
May 14
Fri
May 15
Sat
May 16
Sun
May 17
Mon
May 18
Tue
May 19
Wed
May 20

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
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Canterbury to Exeter run on average 14 times per day, taking around 3h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $88 (€70) but you can travel from only $42 (€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 $42 (€34)
Distance
203 miles (328 km)
Average train duration
3h 24m
Cheapest ticket price
$88 (€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 $42 (€34)

Train companies: Great Western Railway from Canterbury to Exeter trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Canterbury and Exeter from $42 (€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
$88 (€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

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Canterbury to Exeter can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $88 (€70), while the average price is around $96 (€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 $42 (€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
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
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
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
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
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
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: Heated waiting room on platforms 1 and 2 Only available when staff present
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: downside platform - London end
  • Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
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
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
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
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
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
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
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: Heated waiting room on both platforms Only available when staff present
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Platform 2
  • Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
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.

More options for your journey from Canterbury to Exeter

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone