Exeter to Cambridge train with Great Western Railway

Wed, Aug 05
+ 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 Aug 05

Cheapest price

€63

Average price

€153

Fastest journey

3 h 47 m

Average duration

4 h 32 m

Trains per day

9

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 €153 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €63.

Fast trains

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

  • Great Western RailwayC47986+South Western RailwayL79358+Great NorthernC18664+ThameslinkW45467
    7:20 AM6h15
    St James' Park (SJP)
    1:35 PMCambridge South
    631One-way
    4 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayC47986+South Western RailwayL79358 · L80980+Greater AngliaP76291
    7:20 AM5h24
    St James' Park (SJP)
    12:44 PMCambridge South
    871One-way
    4 transfers
  • South Western RailwayL79353+TubeTube from London Waterloo to London Kings Cross+Great NorthernG27007
    6:40 AM5h29
    Exeter St Davids (EXD)
    12:09 PMCambridge South
    1441One-way
    2 transfers
  • South Western RailwayL79358+ThameslinkW45493+SouthernG27397+TubeTube from London Victoria to Finsbury Park
    7:25 AM5h10
    Exeter St Davids (EXD)
    12:35 PMCambridge South
    1441One-way
    3 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayC47975 · Y41858 · W34555+Great NorthernC93366
    6:01 AM5h42
    Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
    11:43 AMCambridge station (CBG)
    1701One-way
    4 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 €24. 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 €24, and a flight costs an average of €171.

Distance: 187 miles (301 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

€70

Average price

€33

Average price

Cheapest

€323

Average price

€66

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 €33.

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

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

A bus is €290 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Exeter to Cambridge costing on average €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 €70 compared to roughly €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 tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western RailwayC47975 · Y41858 · W34555+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross6:01 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
5h42
11:43 AM Cambridge station (CBG)4 transfers
Great Western RailwayC47975 · Y41858 · W34555+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross6:01 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
5h38
11:39 AM Cambridge South4 transfers
South Western RailwayL79353+TubeTube from London Waterloo to London Kings Cross+Great NorthernG270076:40 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
5h29
12:09 PM Cambridge South2 transfers
Great Western RailwayC47985 · W34553+Great NorthernC93356+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross6:40 AM St James' Park (SJP)
3h59
10:39 AM Cambridge South3 transfers
Great Western RailwayW34553+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+Great NorthernC933566:52 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
3h47
10:39 AM Cambridge South2 transfers
Great Western RailwayC47986 · W34555+Great NorthernC93366+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross7:20 AM St James' Park (SJP)
4h19
11:39 AM Cambridge South3 transfers
Great Western RailwayC47986+South Western RailwayL79358 · L80980+Greater AngliaP762917:20 AM St James' Park (SJP)
5h24
12:44 PM Cambridge South4 transfers
Great Western RailwayC47986+South Western RailwayL79358+TubeTube from London Waterloo to London Kings Cross+ThameslinkW454677:20 AM St James' Park (SJP)
6h15
1:35 PM Cambridge South4 transfers
South Western RailwayL79358+SouthernG27397+TubeTube from London Victoria to Finsbury Park+ThameslinkW454937:25 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
5h10
12:35 PM Cambridge South3 transfers

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.

Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11

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 €40 but you can travel from only €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 €24
Distance
187 miles (301 km)
Average train duration
4h 18m
Cheapest ticket price
€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 €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 €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
€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
€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
€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

Major university museum with masterpieces, antiquities and decorative arts in a grand building. A leading cultural highlight in Cambridge.

  • Recommended

Scott Polar Research Institute Museum

Compact museum of polar exploration with artifacts, sledges and expedition stories. Excellent for understanding Arctic and Antarctic history.

  • Recommended

Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

Acclaimed anthropology museum displaying world cultures through remarkable objects and thoughtful interpretation. Rich, memorable and family friendly.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost more in peak season, but dining and local buses are manageable for most tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included; if not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but 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 €40, while the average price is around €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 €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

Most Exeter to Cambridge trains use the Exeter St Davids to Cambridge station pair, with some services arriving at Cambridge North. Use this guide to compare Exeter and Cambridge 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 Cambridge

Which Exeter station do trains to Cambridge leave from?

Trains from Exeter to Cambridge 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 3451652030WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
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 1AJWifiParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
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.

Exeter CentralExeter Central station, Queen Street, Exeter, Devon, EX4 3SB+44 3451652030WifiShoppingParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
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.

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