Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) train with CrossCountry

Fri, Sep 18
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Great Western Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Great Western Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC)

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18

Cheapest price on Sep 18

CHF66

Average ticket price on Sep 18

CHF108

Fastest journey on Sep 18

1 h 48 m

Average journey duration on Sep 18

2 h 1 m

Trains on Sep 18

37

Distance

87 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) will cost around CHF108 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF66.

Fast trains

On Fri, Sep 18, we found 37 trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC), including 9 direct services.

On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 87 km distance in an average of 2 h 1 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 48 m .

On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 2 h 10 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 (GWR)
    8:00 AM2h31
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    10:31 AMExeter Central (EXC)
    CHF661One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western Railway (GWR)
    9:00 AM2h32
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    11:32 AMExeter Central (EXC)
    CHF661One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western Railway (GWR)
    10:00 AM2h32
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    12:32 PMExeter Central (EXC)
    CHF661One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western Railway (GWR)
    11:00 AM2h31
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    1:31 PMExeter Central (EXC)
    CHF661One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western Railway (GWR)
    12:00 PM2h32
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    2:32 PMExeter Central (EXC)
    CHF661One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC)

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of CHF26 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 44m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of CHF26, while a train costs an average of CHF67.

Distance: 54 miles (87 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

CHF67

Average price

CHF26

Average price

Cheapest

CHF33

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 44m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 42m

Average total duration

3h 12m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 15m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) is a bus with an average price of CHF26.

This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC):

A bus is CHF41 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) costing on average CHF67.

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) is by train with an average journey time of 2h 14m.

Other travel options to Exeter Central (EXC) take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 12m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff Central (CDF) and Exeter Central (EXC) including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) 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 1m sooner (2h 14m by train vs 2h 15m by car). Tickets start at around CHF67 compared to roughly CHF33 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.

Direct services run with Great Western Railway (GWR).

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

Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) trains for today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountry5:27 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h47
8:14 PM Exeter Central (EXC)0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24

Why should you book Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC).
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC).

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC).
  • 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC).

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC).
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC).

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC)

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at CHF66 but you can travel from only CHF17 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 06:28, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 54 miles (87 km) distance in 1h 51m.

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 CHF17
Distance
54 miles (87 km)
Average train duration
2h 14m
Cheapest ticket price
CHF66
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
1h 51m
First train
6:28 AM
Last train
11:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Tue
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 CHF17

Train companies: CrossCountry, Great Western Railway from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) trainsCrossCountry, Great Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff Central (CDF) and Exeter Central (EXC) from CHF17. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
1h 51m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
CHF66
CrossCountry frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

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 Great Western Railway Duration
2h 34m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
CHF66
Great Western Railway frequency
3 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 Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC)

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) 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 Central (EXC), this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at CHF66, while the average price is around CHF67.
The train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) takes 1h 51m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) is 54 miles (87 km).
The first train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) leaves at 6:28 AM.
The last train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) leaves at 11:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC).
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC). This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway (GWR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) is by bus, with a cost of around CHF17.
The train journey from Cardiff Central to Exeter Central offers scenic views, including the Severn Estuary, rolling countryside, and the picturesque landscapes of the South West.
A day trip from Cardiff Central to Exeter Central is not feasible as the travel duration is 1h 51m. However, trains run 8 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC).
Since neither Cardiff Central (CDF) nor Exeter Central (EXC) 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 Central (EXC) include Taunton, Exmouth, Newton Abbot, Umberleigh, Barnstaple.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) 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.
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 Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC)

Most Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) trains use the Cardiff Central to Exeter St Davids station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff Central (CDF) and Exeter Central (EXC) train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Cardiff
Arrival train stations in Exeter
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff Central from Cardiff city centre

Bus24, 25, 27, 86, 62, 30, 35, 21, 136, 7, 23, 63, 64 · 3m · CHF2 · every ~47 min
C1 · 5m · every ~8 min

Cardiff Central train station facilities and services

Cardiff Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Central: There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.

More options for your journey from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC)

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

Most popular trains to and from Exeter Central (EXC) and Cardiff Central (CDF)

HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomCardiff Central (CDF) to Exeter Central (EXC) train

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