Exeter to Cambridge train with Great Western Railway

Sun, Jun 21
+ Add return
Great Western Railway
South Western Railway
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
South Western Railway
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Exeter to Cambridge

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$61

Average price

$81

Fastest journey

4 h 8 m

Average duration

4 h 12 m

Trains per day

12

Distance

301 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Exeter to Cambridge is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Exeter to Cambridge will cost around $81 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $61.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Exeter to Cambridge without transferring at least 2 times.

  • South Western RailwayL79416 · L82108+TubeTube from Vauxhall to London Kings Cross+Great NorthernG77052
    12:25 PM5h49
    Exeter St Davids (EXD)
    6:14 PMCambridge station (CBG)
    $611One-way
    3 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayY80250+South Western RailwayL79449 · L82168+TubeTube from Vauxhall to London Kings Cross
    3:06 PM6h08
    Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
    9:14 PMCambridge station (CBG)
    $611One-way
    4 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayY80240+South Western RailwayL79437 · L82148+TubeTube from Vauxhall to London Kings Cross
    1:44 PM6h06
    Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
    7:50 PMCambridge station (CBG)
    $611One-way
    4 transfers
  • South Western RailwayL79437 · L82148+TubeTube from Vauxhall to London Kings Cross+ThameslinkX64124
    2:25 PM5h25
    Exeter St Davids (EXD)
    7:50 PMCambridge station (CBG)
    $611One-way
    3 transfers
  • South Western RailwayL79427 · L82128+TubeTube from Vauxhall to London Kings Cross+Great NorthernG77065
    1:26 PM5h48
    Exeter St Davids (EXD)
    7:14 PMCambridge station (CBG)
    $681One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Exeter to Cambridge

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Exeter to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $29. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 18m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $29, and a flight costs an average of $209.

Distance: 187 miles (301 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$86

Average price

$40

Average price

Cheapest

$395

Average price

$81

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 48m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 4m

Average total duration

7h 34m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 32m

Average total duration

6h 32m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

4h 36m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.8kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

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 Cambridge is a bus with an average price of $40 (€33).

This is compared to other travel options from Exeter to Cambridge:

A bus is $45 (€37) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Exeter to Cambridge costing on average $86 (€70).

A bus is $355 (€290) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Exeter to Cambridge costing on average $395 (€323).

The fastest way to travel from Exeter to Cambridge is by train with an average journey time of 4h 18m.

Other travel options to Cambridge take longer:

Flight takes on average 6h 32m.

Bus takes on average 7h 34m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Exeter and Cambridge including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Exeter to Cambridge 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 18m sooner (4h 18m by train vs 4h 36m by car). Tickets start at around $86 (€70) compared to roughly $81 (€66) 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.

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

Exeter to Cambridge train times

The table below shows live departures for Exeter to Cambridge trains for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western Railway11:27 AM Exeter
4h16
3:43 PM Cambridge0 transfersDirect
South Western Railway11:43 AM Exeter
5h56
5:39 PM Cambridge0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Exeter to Cambridge 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.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Exeter to Cambridge trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as South Western Railway or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Exeter to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Exeter to Cambridge.

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 or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Exeter to Cambridge.
  • 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 Exeter to Cambridge.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Exeter to Cambridge

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Exeter to Cambridge run on average 16 times per day, taking around 4h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $49 (€40) but you can travel from only $29 (€24) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:09. The fastest train covers the 187 miles (301 km) distance in 3h 57m.

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 $29 (€24)
Distance
187 miles (301 km)
Average train duration
4h 18m
Cheapest ticket price
$49 (€40)
Trains per day
16
Fastest train
3h 57m
First train
12:02 AM
Last train
11:09 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
35 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 $29 (€24)

Train companies: Great Western Railway, South Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Exeter to Cambridge trainsGreat Western Railway, South Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Exeter and Cambridge from $29 (€24). 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
3h 57m
Cheapest Price
$71 (€58)
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 Duration
5h 14m
Cheapest Price
$49 (€40)
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

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 56m
Cheapest Price
$279 (€228)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
3 a day

Complete guide to Cambridge

Things to do in Cambridge

Discover the best of Cambridge — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cambridge trip today.

  • Must visit

The Fitzwilliam Museum

The University of Cambridge’s flagship museum, known for major collections of art, antiquities, and manuscripts. A top cultural stop with free permanent galleries.

  • Must visit

Kettle’s Yard

A renowned modern and contemporary art house museum with intimate displays and a distinctive domestic setting. One of Cambridge’s most characterful art venues.

  • Recommended

Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

University museum with important world archaeology and anthropology collections, including Pacific, African, and British material. Excellent for a deeper academic side of Cambridge.

Pound sterling

Costs are high by UK standards, especially for hotels and dining in the centre, though markets and pubs offer cheaper options.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway, street food, or a simple cafe meal.
Mid-range
GBP 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant or pub.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or flat white.

Tipping culture

Service charge may be added in restaurants; if not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up in taxis. Tipping is not expected for counter service, though small change is appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Exeter to Cambridge

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Exeter to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Exeter to Cambridge can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $49 (€40), while the average price is around $86 (€70).
The train from Exeter to Cambridge takes 3h 57m and runs 16 per day.
The distance by train from Exeter to Cambridge is 187 miles (301 km).
The first train from Exeter to Cambridge leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Exeter to Cambridge leaves at 11:09 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Exeter to Cambridge.
There is no direct train service currently available from Exeter to Cambridge.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Exeter to Cambridge.
The train station in Exeter that goes to Cambridge is Exeter St Davids (EXD), which connects to Cambridge station (CBG).
The cheapest way to get from Exeter to Cambridge is by bus, with a cost of around $29 (€24).
The train journey from Exeter to Cambridge offers scenic views, particularly as it travels through the rolling countryside of Devon and Somerset, passing charming villages and lush landscapes. However, some sections are more urban and less picturesque.
A day trip from Exeter to Cambridge is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 57m. However, there are 13 train trips available per day. The distance between the two cities is 187 miles (301 km).
In Cambridge, you can enjoy punting on the River Cam for scenic views, visit the interactive Cambridge Science Centre, explore the historic Market Square, or attend a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre. Discover the city's rich history on a guided walking tour. Don't miss the stunning King's College Chapel, the art-filled Fitzwilliam Museum, the picturesque Backs, the historic Trinity College, and the tranquil Cambridge University Botanic Garden.
For a fulfilling experience in Cambridge, spending two to three days is ideal to explore its historic colleges, museums, and the picturesque River Cam.
Yes, you can take the train from Exeter to Cambridge.
Since neither Exeter nor Cambridge 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 Cambridge include London, Stevenage, Hitchin, Peterborough, Letchworth Garden City.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Exeter to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as market squares and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides offering services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official tour operators. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction scams near popular landmarks. Staying alert and securing personal belongings can help ensure a safe visit.
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 Cambridge

Exeter
Cambridge
The major train station for departures 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 trip from Exeter to Cambridge.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: WHSmith
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
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
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
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
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
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
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
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 07:50 - 18:15 Saturday 07:50 - 18:15 Sunday 09:30 - 16:30
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: Yes
  • Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 2. 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
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Both platforms
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Exeter Central
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Bus stop at the front of the station on Queens Street

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