- 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 Darlington to Exeter
Showing times and prices for Jul 27
Cheapest price
$60
Average price
$60
Fastest journey
5 h 52 m
Average duration
5 h 52 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
443 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Darlington to Exeter is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Darlington to Exeter will cost around $60 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $60.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Darlington for Exeter on Mon, Jul 27, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jul 27 the direct trains cover the 443 km distance in an average of 5 h 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 52 m .
On Mon, Jul 27 the slowest trains will take 5 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.
4:52 AM5h52Darlington10:44 AMExeter$601One-way0 transfers
- 4:52 AM5h52Darlington10:44 AMExeter$601One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Darlington to Exeter
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Darlington to Exeter among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 38m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $47, and a flight costs an average of $189.
Distance: 275 miles (443 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$100 Average price | $68 Average price Cheapest | $539 Average price | $97 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 31m Average total duration 6h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 45m Average total duration 11h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 38m Average total duration Fastest 4h 38m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Darlington to Exeter is a bus with an average price of $68 (€68).
This is compared to other travel options from Darlington to Exeter:
A bus is $32 (€32) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Darlington to Exeter costing on average $100 (€100).
A bus is $471 (€471) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Darlington to Exeter costing on average $539 (€539).
The fastest way to travel from Darlington to Exeter is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 38m.
Other travel options to Exeter take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 1m.
Bus takes on average 11h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Darlington and Exeter including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Darlington to Exeter among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $100 (€100) compared to roughly $97 (€97) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-3.32 (€-3.32). The journey takes 6h 1m versus 5h 46m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Darlington to Exeter train times
The table below shows live departures for Darlington to Exeter trains for today, Sunday, July 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 7:11 PM Darlington | 11h25 | 6:36 AM Exeter | 1 transfer | |
| 8:09 PM Darlington | 12h58 | 9:07 AM Exeter | 1 transfer | |
| Monday, July 27 | |||||
| 4:52 AM Darlington | 5h52 | 10:44 AM Exeter | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Darlington to Exeter by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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.
Mon
Jul 27
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Darlington to Exeter
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Darlington to Exeter run on average 13 times per day, taking around 6h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $60 (€60) but you can travel from only $47 (€47) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:09. The fastest train covers the 275 miles (443 km) distance in 5h 52m.
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 $47 (€47)
Distance 275 miles (443 km) |
Average train duration 6h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price $60 (€60) |
Trains per day 13 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 5h 52m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:09 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 28 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $47 (€47)
Train companies: Cross Country from Darlington to Exeter trainsCross Country trains will get you between Darlington and Exeter from $47 (€47). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 4m
Cheapest Price
$391 (€391)
Cross Country frequency
12 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
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.
FAQs: Trains from Darlington to Exeter
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Darlington 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 Darlington to Exeter can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $60 (€60), while the average price is around $100 (€100).
The train from Darlington to Exeter takes 5h 52m and runs 13 per day.
The distance by train from Darlington to Exeter is 275 miles (443 km).
The first train from Darlington to Exeter leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Darlington to Exeter leaves at 11:09 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Darlington to Exeter.
Yes, there is a direct train from Darlington to Exeter. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Darlington to Exeter.
The train station in Darlington that goes to Exeter is Darlington station (DAR), which connects to Exeter St Davids (EXD).
The cheapest way to get from Darlington to Exeter is by bus, with a cost of around $47 (€47).
The train journey from Darlington to Exeter offers a varied scenic experience, featuring rolling countryside, quaint villages, and glimpses of the coastline, particularly as the train traverses the landscapes of the Midlands and South West England.
A day trip from Darlington to Exeter is not feasible as the journey duration is 5h 52m. The trip frequency is 12 per day for trains and the distance is 275 miles (443 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 Darlington to Exeter.
Since neither Darlington 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 Darlington 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 Darlington to Exeter
Most Darlington to Exeter trains use the Darlington to Exeter St Davids station pair, with some services arriving at Exeter St Thomas. Use this guide to compare Darlington and Exeter train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Darlington
Arrival train stations in Exeter
Which Darlington station do trains to Exeter leave from?
Trains from Darlington to Exeter leave from Darlington. The station is from Darlington city centre at Darlington station, Bank Top, Darlington, County Durham, DL1 4AA.
DarlingtonDarlington station, Bank Top, Darlington, County Durham, DL1 4AA
City-centre transport
Getting to Darlington from Darlington city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement coach services depart from the station entrance
Darlington train station facilities and services
Darlington has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Darlington.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Darlington.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Darlington.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Darlington: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Darlington: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Darlington: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: text phones are available and staff are on hand to assist as required due to no low level phones, Accessible taxis: Generally available but advance booking recommended, 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.
Which Exeter station do trains from Darlington arrive at?
Trains from Darlington 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 · $2 · every ~20 min
4, 4A, Uni, K · 8m · $2 · 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 · $1 · every ~2 min
BusA, B, C, E, P · 9m · $2 · 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.
Most popular train connections from Darlington
More options for your journey from Darlington to Exeter
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Exeter and Darlington
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