- Must visit
Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery
Exeter’s main museum and gallery, with collections on local history, archaeology, natural history and world cultures. A strong first stop for understanding the city.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Darlington to Exeter
Showing times and prices for Jun 12
Cheapest price
$73
Average price
$126
Fastest journey
5 h 52 m
Average duration
6 h 1 m
Trains per day
2
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 $126 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $73.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Darlington for Exeter on Fri, Jun 12, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 12 the direct trains cover the 443 km distance in an average of 6 h 1 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 52 m .
On Fri, Jun 12 the slowest trains will take 6 h 9 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$731One-way0 transfers- 10:11 AM6h09Darlington4:20 PMExeter$1781One-way0 transfers
- 4:52 AM5h52Darlington10:44 AMExeter$731One-way0 transfers
- 10:11 AM6h09Darlington4:20 PMExeter$1781One-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 $57. 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 $57, and a flight costs an average of $232.
Distance: 275 miles (443 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$123 Average price | $83 Average price Cheapest | $662 Average price | $119 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 $83 (€68).
This is compared to other travel options from Darlington to Exeter:
A bus is $40 (€32) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Darlington to Exeter costing on average $123 (€100).
A bus is $579 (€471) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Darlington to Exeter costing on average $662 (€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 $123 (€100) compared to roughly $119 (€97) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-4.08 (€-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.
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.
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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 $73 (€60) but you can travel from only $57 (€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 $57 (€47)
Distance 275 miles (443 km) |
Average train duration 6h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price $73 (€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 $57 (€47)
Train companies: Cross Country from Darlington to Exeter trainsCross Country trains will get you between Darlington and Exeter from $57 (€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
$480 (€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
Bill Douglas Cinema Museum
A specialist museum at the University of Exeter with remarkable collections on the history of cinema, optics and moving images. A local favourite for film and media enthusiasts.
- Recommended
Spacex
An established contemporary visual arts venue in Exeter known for changing exhibitions and experimental programming. Popular with local arts audiences.
- Must visit
Exeter Quayside
A lively waterfront area with historic warehouses, riverside walks and photogenic views. Especially popular for relaxed strolling and social-media-friendly scenery.
- Must visit
Cathedral Green
The open space around Exeter Cathedral, ideal for appreciating the city’s main landmark and surrounding historic streetscape. A classic Exeter viewpoint.
- Recommended
Northernhay Gardens
One of England’s oldest public open spaces, with mature planting, monuments and elevated views near the castle area. A pleasant central retreat.
- Vegetarian
Devon Cream Tea
Freshly baked scones served with strawberry jam and thick Devon clotted cream, traditionally spread jam first in Devon. It is one of the county's most famous treats.
- Vegetarian
Devonshire Splits
Light yeast buns, often served split and filled with jam and clotted cream. A classic West Country tea-time bake associated with Devon.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Devon Blue Cheese
A rich, creamy blue cow's milk cheese made in Devon. It is a notable regional product often served on cheeseboards or in local dishes.
Rendezvous Wine Bar
Well-regarded independent restaurant and wine bar offering refined seasonal cooking and a relaxed, smart atmosphere near the cathedral.
The Conservatory
Long-running independent restaurant in central Exeter known for polished modern British cooking and a cosy, intimate atmosphere.
Harry's Restaurant
Established city-centre favourite serving broad European and British dishes in a lively brasserie setting, popular with both locals and visitors.
Pound Sterling
Generally cheaper than London. Dining and coffee are fairly priced, but central hotels and peak-season stays can raise daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-12 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 50+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is often included only at some restaurants. If not, tip about 10% for good service. Rounding up is fine in taxis. Tipping is not usually expected for pubs or counter service.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Exeter St Davids -> Exeter City Centre
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Bus fares can usually be paid by contactless card on Stagecoach buses, which is often the easiest option for visitors.
- Exeter St Davids is within walking distance of the city centre, so walking is often faster than waiting for a bus or taxi.
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 $73 (€60), while the average price is around $123 (€100).
The train from Darlington to Exeter takes 5h 52m and runs 13 per day.
The first train from Darlington to Exeter leaves at 12:02 AM.
The distance by train from Darlington to Exeter is 275 miles (443 km).
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 $57 (€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
Darlington
Exeter
The major train station for departures in Darlington is Darlington. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Darlington for your trip from Darlington to Exeter.
Amenities at train station
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:00 - 19:00 Saturday 07:00 - 19:00 Sunday 08:00 - 18:00
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on the Main Concourse; these toilets can be accessed from all platforms. The National key toilets are adjacent to Platform 2; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key. A RADAR key is available from the Customer Reception on Platform 1 upon request.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: This station has heated waiting rooms available. Seating is available at an accessible height in the waiting room and on platforms
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: stations front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Darlington
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement coach services depart from 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 Darlington.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike 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
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Bike Parking
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for St James' Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Bus Stops on the Old Tiverton Road (Nearest to St James Road)
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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