- Must visit
Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery
Excellent city museum and gallery with archaeology, natural history, and world cultures; the best all-round museum in Exeter.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Colchester to Exeter
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- $89
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- $100
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 4 h 8 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 4 h 22 m
- Trains on Nov 04
- 2
- Distance
- 334 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Colchester to Exeter is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Colchester to Exeter will cost around $100 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $89.
Fast trains
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 2 trains from Colchester to Exeter, including 2 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 334 km distance in an average of 4 h 22 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 8 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 4 h 36 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.
10:00 AM 4h08 Colchester 2:08 PM Exeter $89 1 One-way 0 transfers
8:09 AM 4h36 Colchester 12:45 PM Exeter $110 1 One-way 0 transfers
10:00 AM 4h08 Colchester 2:08 PM Exeter $89 1 One-way 0 transfers8:09 AM 4h36 Colchester 12:45 PM Exeter $110 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Colchester to Exeter
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Colchester to Exeter run on average 18 times per day, taking around 3h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $84 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 207 miles (334 km) distance in 3h 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
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance207 miles (334 km)
- Average train duration3h 42m
- Cheapest ticket price$84
- Trains per day18
- Fastest train3h 4m
- First train12:02 AM
- Last train11:48 PM
- Cheapest MonthJun
- Cheapest DayFri
- High SeasonJul - Sep
- Low SeasonOct - Dec
- Busiest DayFri
- Least Busy DayFri
- Best time to book7 days
Understand & plan this route
Book with confidence
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
Frequently asked questions about your Colchester to Exeter trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Colchester to Exeter.
Train ticket prices from Colchester to Exeter can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $84, while the average price is around $146.
The train from Colchester to Exeter takes 3h 4m and runs 18 per day.
The first train from Colchester to Exeter leaves at 12:02 AM.
The distance by train from Colchester to Exeter is 207 miles (334 km).
The last train from Colchester to Exeter leaves at 11:48 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Colchester to Exeter.
Live departures
Colchester to Exeter train times
The table below shows live departures for Colchester to Exeter trains for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 5:35 AM Colchester | 3h52 | 9:27 AM Exeter | 2 transfers | |
| 6:42 AM Colchester | 3h26 | 10:08 AM Exeter | 2 transfers | |
| 7:37 AM Colchester | 3h36 | 11:13 AM Exeter | 2 transfers | |
| 8:09 AM Colchester | 3h45 | 11:54 AM Exeter | 2 transfers | |
| 8:31 AM Colchester | 3h33 | 12:04 PM Exeter | 2 transfers | |
| 9:01 AM Colchester | 4h06 | 1:07 PM Exeter | 2 transfers | |
| 9:33 AM Colchester | 3h40 | 1:13 PM Exeter | 2 transfers | |
| 10:33 AM Colchester | 3h27 | 2:00 PM Exeter | 2 transfers | |
| 11:00 AM Colchester | 4h08 | 3:08 PM Exeter | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Colchester to Exeter trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as South Western Railway offer trains services from Colchester to Exeter.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Colchester 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 South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Colchester 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Colchester to Exeter.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Colchester to Exeter.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Colchester to Exeter.
Train companies
Train companies from Colchester to Exeter
Trains from Colchester to Exeter with Great Western Railway and South Western Railway. Night trains available on this route with Great Western Railway. High-speed trains available on this route with Great Western Railway. Regional trains available on this route with Great Western Railway and South Western Railway. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
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
3h 4m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$84
Great Western Railway frequency
16 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
South Western Railway
About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average South Western Railway Duration
4h 24m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
$114
South Western Railway frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Colchester and Exeter
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Colchester to Exeter.
Yes, there is a night train from Colchester to Exeter.
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.
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
Topsham Museum and Paper Mill
Interactive museum inside a working paper mill where visitors learn traditional papermaking and local industrial heritage.
- Recommended
Topsham Museum
Small independent museum in a Tudor merchant’s house, showing Topsham’s river trade, local stories, and period interiors.
- Must visit
Northernhay Gardens
Medieval city wall segment and gardens offering one of Exeter’s best walks, with lawns, ruins, and broad urban views.
- Must visit
Exeter Quayside
Historic quay lined with warehouses, canal heritage, walks, and waterside activity; one of Exeter’s most characterful areas.
- Recommended
Cathedral Green
Attractive urban park beside the cathedral, ideal for relaxing and appreciating surrounding historic buildings in the city centre.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Clotted Cream
A rich Devon cream made from slowly heated milk. It is a county staple, famously served on scones in a Devon cream tea.
- Vegetarian
Devon Cream Tea
Traditional Devon cream tea pairs scones with jam and clotted cream, with cream spread before jam in the local style.
- Gluten-free
Devonshire Junket Pie
A hearty baked pudding of layers of potato, onion, and lamb or beef. It is a long-standing Devon farmhouse dish.
Lympstone Manor
Fine dining restaurant known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service in central Exeter.
Rendezvous Wine Bar
Popular modern eatery with seasonal small plates, brunch, and a lively casual atmosphere near the city centre.
The Old Firehouse
Historic quayside pub serving local ales and British classics in a characterful former warehouse by the water.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are mid-priced, buses are reasonable, and attractions are often low-cost versus larger UK tourist cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add 10%. Cafes: tipping is optional, small change appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city center
Exeter St Davids -> Exeter Central Station
- Distance
- 1.3 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Contactless card and mobile payment are accepted on most Stagecoach buses in Exeter. Ask the driver for the cheapest valid fare if unsure.
- For the city centre from Exeter St Davids, the train to Exeter Central is usually the quickest option. Local buses also connect both stations and the city centre.
Plan your visit to Exeter
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Exeter.
The train journey from Colchester to Exeter offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, including views of the countryside, coastal areas near the South West, and charming small towns, providing a pleasant visual experience.
Popular day trips by train from Exeter include Bristol, Plymouth, Barnstaple, Exmouth, Bath.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Colchester to Exeter
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Colchester 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Colchester to Exeter.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Colchester to Exeter
Most Colchester to Exeter trains use the Colchester to Exeter St Davids station pair, with some services arriving at Exeter St Thomas. Use this guide to compare Colchester and Exeter train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Colchester
Arrival train stations in Exeter
Which Colchester station do trains to Exeter leave from?
Trains from Colchester to Exeter leave from Colchester. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Colchester city centre at Colchester [North] station, Station Approach Road, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1XD.
ColchesterColchester [North] station, Station Approach Road, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1XD+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester from Colchester city centre
Colchester is 1 km from Colchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainClacton-on-Sea - London Liverpool Street, Clacton-on-Sea - Colchester, Colchester Town - London Liverpool Street, Colchester Town - Colchester, Walton-on-the-Naze - Colchester · 8m · $2 · every ~5 min
Bus2A, 68, 87, 53, 53A, 52, 51, X20 · 6m · $3 · every ~31 min
Colchester train station facilities and services
Colchester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Colchester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Colchester. ATMs are available at Colchester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Colchester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Colchester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Colchester: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, 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.
Which Exeter station do trains from Colchester arrive at?
Trains from Colchester to Exeter most often arrive at Exeter St Davids. Some services arrive at Exeter St Thomas, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Exeter arrival station.
Exeter St DavidsExeter St Davids station, Bonhay Road, Exeter, Devon, EX4 4NT+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Exeter St Davids from Exeter city centre
Exeter St Davids is 1 km from Exeter city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus355, 6A, 5B, 4A, 4, 66 · 6m · $3 · every ~20 min
4, 4A, Uni, K · 8m · $3 · every ~19 min
Exeter St Davids train station facilities and services
Exeter St Davids has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Exeter St Davids.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter St Davids. ATMs are available at Exeter St Davids.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Exeter St Davids.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Exeter St Davids: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Exeter St Davids: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter St Davids: 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.
Exeter St ThomasExeter St Thomas station, Cowick Street, Exeter, Devon, EX4 1AJ
City-centre transport
Getting to Exeter St Thomas from Exeter city centre
Exeter St Thomas is 1 km from Exeter city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainExmouth - Paignton · 21m · $2 · every ~2 min
BusA, B, C, E, P · 9m · $3 · every ~44 min
Exeter St Thomas train station facilities and services
Exeter St Thomas has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Exeter St Thomas.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter St Thomas.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Exeter St Thomas: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Exeter St Thomas: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter St Thomas: 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.
St James' ParkSt James Park (Exeter) station, Well Street, Exeter, Devon, EX4 6QB
City-centre transport
Getting to St James' Park from Exeter city centre
BusTg001 · 12m
G · 18m · every ~1 min
St James' Park train station facilities and services
St James' Park has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at St James' Park.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at St James' Park: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at St James' Park: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at St James' Park: Staff help available: No, Step free access note: Step Free Category B3 Station - This station has a degree of step free access to the platforms, however the Exeter bound platform cannot be accessed step free and the Exmouth bound platform can be accessed step free but only via a very steep ramp, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Train stations for Colchester to Exeter
Check train stations information for Colchester and Exeter, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Colchester that goes to Exeter is Colchester, which connects to Exeter St Davids.
Most popular trains to and from Exeter and Colchester
Most popular train connections to Exeter
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