- Recommended
Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon
Local museum on Barnstaple's history, archaeology, and culture. A strong first stop for understanding the town and wider North Devon.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Exeter to Barnstaple
Showing times and prices for Jul 31
Cheapest price
$12
Average price
$12
Fastest journey
1 h 6 m
Average duration
1 h 6 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
54 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Exeter to Barnstaple is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Exeter to Barnstaple will cost around $12 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $12.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Exeter for Barnstaple on Fri, Jul 31, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 31 the direct trains cover the 54 km distance in an average of 1 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 6 m .
On Fri, Jul 31 the slowest trains will take 1 h 6 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.
10:19 AM1h06Exeter11:25 AMBarnstaple$121One-way0 transfers- 9:19 AM1h06Exeter10:25 AMBarnstaple$121One-way0 transfers
- 10:19 AM1h06Exeter11:25 AMBarnstaple$121One-way0 transfers
- 9:19 AM1h06Exeter10:25 AMBarnstaple$121One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Exeter to Barnstaple
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Exeter to Barnstaple among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 12m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $8, and a train costs an average of $8.
Distance: 33 miles (54 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$12 Average price | $12 Average price Cheapest | $15 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 42m Average total duration Fastest 1h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 4m Average total duration 1h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Exeter to Barnstaple is a bus with an average price of $12 (€10).
This is compared to other travel options from Exeter to Barnstaple:
A bus is $0.32 (€0.26) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Exeter to Barnstaple costing on average $12 (€10).
The fastest way to travel from Exeter to Barnstaple is by train with an average journey time of 1h 12m.
Other travel options to Barnstaple take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 34m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Exeter and Barnstaple including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Exeter to Barnstaple 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 $12 (€10) compared to roughly $15 (€13) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $3 (€3). The journey takes 1h 12m versus 1h 11m 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.
Direct services run with Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR).
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Exeter to Barnstaple train times
The table below shows live departures for Exeter to Barnstaple trains for tomorrow, Friday, July 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:19 AM Exeter | 1h06 | 10:25 AM Barnstaple | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:19 AM Exeter | 1h06 | 11:25 AM Barnstaple | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Exeter to Barnstaple 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
Jul 31
Jul 31
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Why should you book Exeter to Barnstaple trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Exeter to Barnstaple.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Exeter to Barnstaple.
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 Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Exeter to Barnstaple.
- 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Exeter to Barnstaple.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Exeter to Barnstaple.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Exeter to Barnstaple
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Exeter to Barnstaple run on average 17 times per day, taking around 1h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $8 (€7) but you can travel from only $8 (€7) by bus.
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:13. The fastest train covers the 33 miles (54 km) distance in 1h 5m.
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 $8 (€7)
Distance 33 miles (54 km) |
Average train duration 1h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $8 (€7) |
Trains per day 17 |
Direct trains 10 |
Fastest train 1h 5m |
First train 12:07 AM |
Last train 11:13 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 2 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 $8 (€7)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Exeter to Barnstaple trainsGreat Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Exeter and Barnstaple from $8 (€7). 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
1h 5m
Cheapest Price
$8 (€7)
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
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
57m
Cheapest Price
$49 (€40)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
12 a day
Complete guide to Barnstaple
Things to do in Barnstaple
Discover the best of Barnstaple — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Barnstaple trip today.
- Recommended
The Plough Arts Centre
Regional arts venue presenting contemporary exhibitions, film, and performances. Worth visiting for changing visual art shows in central Barnstaple.
- Recommended
North Devon Maritime Museum
Maritime museum in a historic signal station at nearby Instow. Displays explain local seafaring and estuary links relevant to North Devon.
- Must visit
Tarka Trail
Traffic-free trail along the old railway, linking Barnstaple with coast and countryside. Excellent for walking or cycling with estuary scenery.
- Recommended
Boutport Street
Historic shopping street lined with characterful buildings. Ideal for appreciating Barnstaple's commercial heritage and everyday town-centre atmosphere.
- Recommended
Rock Park
Green riverside park popular for walks, sports, and family time. It offers open views and a relaxed break close to the town centre.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Devon Clotted Cream
A rich North Devon cream made by slowly heating milk. Served with scones and jam, it is a defining regional treat across Devon tea rooms.
- Vegetarian
Devon Cream Tea
Traditional Devon split scones filled with jam and clotted cream. The Devon style puts cream before jam and is a proud local custom.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Devon Cider
A classic West Country cider from nearby orchards. Dry or sparkling styles are widely drunk in North Devon pubs and with local food.
62 The Bank
Smart modern restaurant in Barnstaple known for seasonal British cooking, tasting menus, and polished service in an intimate setting.
Giovanni's & Luca's
Established Italian restaurant with a loyal local following, serving pasta, pizza, and seafood in a relaxed riverside area.
The Pelican
Historic pub and restaurant in the town centre, popular for cask ales, classic British dishes, and a traditional atmosphere.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and meals are usually lower than major cities, while local buses and everyday dining stay fairly manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis, and small change is fine in cafes.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.60
To the city center
Barnstaple Railway Station -> The Square, Barnstaple
- Distance
- 1.1 km
- Travel time
- 14 min
- Most Barnstaple local buses are run by Stagecoach South West. Contactless card payment is generally accepted on board.
- Barnstaple town centre is walkable from the railway station in about 14 min. Check live bus times in the Stagecoach Bus app before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Exeter to Barnstaple
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Exeter to Barnstaple 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 Barnstaple, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Exeter to Barnstaple can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $8 (€7), while the average price is around $12 (€10).
The train from Exeter to Barnstaple takes 1h 5m and runs 17 per day.
The first train from Exeter to Barnstaple leaves at 12:07 AM.
The distance by train from Exeter to Barnstaple is 33 miles (54 km).
The last train from Exeter to Barnstaple leaves at 11:13 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Exeter to Barnstaple.
Yes, there is a direct train from Exeter to Barnstaple. This service operates 10 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Exeter to Barnstaple.
The train station in Exeter that goes to Barnstaple is Exeter St Davids (EXD), which connects to Barnstaple station (BNP).
The cheapest way to get from Exeter to Barnstaple is by bus, with a cost of around $8 (€7).
Yes, the train journey from Exeter to Barnstaple is considered scenic, as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of Devon, including views of rolling hills, rivers, and charming countryside.
Yes, a day trip from Exeter to Barnstaple is feasible. The journey takes 1h 5m, covering a distance of 33 miles (54 km). Trains run frequently, with 15 trips per day.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Barnstaple's key attractions, enjoy its local markets, and experience the nearby countryside.
Yes, you can take the train from Exeter to Barnstaple.
Since neither Exeter nor Barnstaple 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 Barnstaple include Bridgwater, Dawlish, Torquay, Newton Abbot, Taunton.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Exeter to Barnstaple 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 Barnstaple, travelers should be aware of typical urban safety concerns such as pickpocketing in busy areas and on public transport. It's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded spots, especially around the town center and transportation hubs. While scams are not prevalent, travelers should be cautious of unsolicited offers or deals that seem too good to be true, particularly from street vendors or unofficial ticket sellers. Keeping personal belongings secure and purchasing tickets from official sources helps ensure a safe experience.
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 Exeter to Barnstaple
Most Exeter to Barnstaple trains use the Exeter St Davids to Barnstaple station pair. Use this guide to compare Exeter and Barnstaple train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Exeter
Arrival train stations in Barnstaple
Which Exeter station do trains to Barnstaple leave from?
Trains from Exeter to Barnstaple leave from Exeter St Davids. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Exeter city centre at Exeter St Davids station, Bonhay Road, Exeter, Devon, EX4 4NT.
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 CentralExeter Central station, Queen Street, Exeter, Devon, EX4 3SB+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Exeter Central from Exeter city centre
BusH, K, Uni, 4A, 4 · 3m · $2 · every ~27 min
Exeter Central train station facilities and services
Exeter Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, 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 Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Exeter Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Exeter Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Exeter Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step free Category A station - Both platforms can be accessed via lifts from the main station entrance, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, 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.
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.
Which Barnstaple station do trains from Exeter arrive at?
Trains from Exeter to Barnstaple arrive at Barnstaple. Barnstaple is 0 miles (1 km) from Barnstaple city centre.
BarnstapleBarnstaple station, Station Road, Barnstaple, Devon, EX31 2AU+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Barnstaple from Barnstaple city centre
Bus21, 21A, 372, 301, 71, 72, 319, 155, 15, 21B, 310, 309, 303, 19, 5B, 85 · 5m · $2 · every ~31 min
301, 921, 21B, 310, 309, 303, 19 · 9m · $2 · every ~14 min
Barnstaple train station facilities and services
Barnstaple has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Station Masters Cafe
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Barnstaple.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Barnstaple: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Barnstaple: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Barnstaple: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step free Category A station - step free access available to the 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 car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, 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 toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Exeter
More options for your journey from Exeter to Barnstaple
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Barnstaple and Exeter
Most popular train connections to Barnstaple
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