Exeter to Canterbury train with Great Western Railway

Thu, May 14
+ Add return
Great Western Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Exeter to Canterbury

Showing times and prices for May 14

Cheapest price

$101

Average price

$168

Fastest journey

3 h 42 m

Average duration

4 h 6 m

Trains per day

18

Distance

328 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Exeter to Canterbury will cost around $168 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $101.

Fast trains

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

  • Great Western RailwayP22602+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+SoutheasternP75590
    10:15 AM4h19
    Exeter St Davids (EXD)
    2:34 PMCanterbury West (CBW)
    $1011One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayP33348 · P29721+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+SoutheasternP75587
    10:50 AM4h44
    St James' Park (SJP)
    3:34 PMCanterbury West (CBW)
    $1011One-way
    3 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayP22601+Elizabeth lineG24471+SoutheasternP75535 · P73226
    9:43 AM4h38
    Exeter St Davids (EXD)
    2:21 PMCanterbury West (CBW)
    $1011One-way
    3 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayP31601 · P29721+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+SoutheasternP75587
    10:39 AM4h55
    Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
    3:34 PMCanterbury West (CBW)
    $1011One-way
    3 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayP23033 · P22604+SoutheasternP75584+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International
    11:42 AM4h52
    Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
    4:34 PMCanterbury West (CBW)
    $1011One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Exeter to Canterbury

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Exeter to Canterbury among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 26m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $25, and a flight costs an average of $303.

Distance: 203 miles (328 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$98

Average price

$54

Average price

Cheapest

$438

Average price

$86

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 56m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 26m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 2m

Average total duration

6h 32m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 3m

Average total duration

7h 3m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

4h 30m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Exeter to Canterbury is a bus with an average price of $54 (€43).

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

A bus is $44 (€36) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Exeter to Canterbury costing on average $98 (€79).

A bus is $385 (€308) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Exeter to Canterbury costing on average $438 (€351).

The fastest way to travel from Exeter to Canterbury is by train with an average journey time of 3h 26m.

Other travel options to Canterbury take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 32m.

Flight takes on average 7h 3m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Exeter and Canterbury including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Exeter to Canterbury 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 1h 4m sooner (3h 26m by train vs 4h 30m by car). Tickets start at around $98 (€79) compared to roughly $86 (€69) 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 Canterbury train times

The table below shows live departures for Exeter to Canterbury trains for tomorrow, Thursday, May 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western RailwayP33317 · P22599+Elizabeth lineG24603+SoutheasternP732446:40 AM St James' Park (SJP)
4h39
11:19 AM Canterbury West (CBW)4 transfers
Great Western RailwayP22599+Elizabeth lineG24603+SoutheasternP73244 · P755446:52 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
4h27
11:19 AM Canterbury West (CBW)3 transfers
Great Western RailwayP33321 · P29710+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+SoutheasternP755997:20 AM St James' Park (SJP)
4h14
11:34 AM Canterbury West (CBW)3 transfers
Great Western RailwayP31581 · P29710+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+SoutheasternP755997:35 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
3h59
11:34 AM Canterbury West (CBW)3 transfers
Great Western RailwayP29710+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+SoutheasternP755997:52 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
3h42
11:34 AM Canterbury West (CBW)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayP33333 · P22600+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+SoutheasternP755938:50 AM St James' Park (SJP)
4h44
1:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)3 transfers
Great Western RailwayP31590 · P22600+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+SoutheasternP755939:05 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
4h29
1:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)3 transfers
Great Western RailwayP22600+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+SoutheasternP755939:16 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
4h18
1:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayP33336 · P22601+Elizabeth lineG24471+SoutheasternP755359:20 AM St James' Park (SJP)
5h01
2:21 PM Canterbury West (CBW)4 transfers
Great Western RailwayP33336 · P31593 · P22602+Elizabeth lineG244979:36 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
4h58
2:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)4 transfers
Great Western RailwayP22601+Elizabeth lineG24471+SoutheasternP75535 · P732269:43 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
4h38
2:21 PM Canterbury West (CBW)3 transfers
Great Western RailwayP33341 · P22602+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+SoutheasternP755909:49 AM St James' Park (SJP)
4h45
2:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)3 transfers
Great Western RailwayP31597 · P22801+CrossCountryC75334+SoutheasternP7553210:06 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
5h13
3:19 PM Canterbury West (CBW)5 transfers
Great Western RailwayP22602+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+SoutheasternP7559010:15 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
4h19
2:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayP22801+SoutheasternP73220+CrossCountryC75334+Elizabeth lineG2455710:27 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
4h52
3:19 PM Canterbury West (CBW)4 transfers
Great Western RailwayP31601 · P29721+SoutheasternP75587+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International10:39 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
4h55
3:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)3 transfers
Great Western RailwayP33348 · P29721+SoutheasternP75587+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International10:50 AM St James' Park (SJP)
4h44
3:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)3 transfers
Great Western RailwayP23033 · P22604+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+SoutheasternP7558411:42 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
4h52
4:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)3 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Exeter to Canterbury by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, 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.

Thu
May 14
Fri
May 15
Sat
May 16
Sun
May 17
Mon
May 18
Tue
May 19
Wed
May 20

Why should you book Exeter to Canterbury trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway operates all trains services from Exeter to Canterbury.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Exeter to Canterbury.

Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?

  • 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Exeter to Canterbury.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Exeter to Canterbury.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Exeter to Canterbury

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Exeter to Canterbury run on average 15 times per day, taking around 3h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $87 (€70) but you can travel from only $25 (€20) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:42, the last at 21:23. The fastest train covers the 203 miles (328 km) distance in 4h 18m.

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 $25 (€20)
Distance
203 miles (328 km)
Average train duration
3h 26m
Cheapest ticket price
$87 (€70)
Trains per day
15
Fastest train
4h 18m
First train
12:42 AM
Last train
9:23 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
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 $25 (€20)

Train companies: Great Western Railway from Exeter to Canterbury trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Exeter and Canterbury from $25 (€20). 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
4h 18m
Cheapest Price
$87 (€70)
Great Western Railway frequency
14 a day
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

FAQs: Trains from Exeter to Canterbury

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Exeter to Canterbury can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $87 (€70), while the average price is around $98 (€79).
The train from Exeter to Canterbury takes 4h 18m and runs 15 per day.
The distance by train from Exeter to Canterbury is 203 miles (328 km).
The first train from Exeter to Canterbury leaves at 12:42 AM.
The last train from Exeter to Canterbury leaves at 9:23 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Exeter to Canterbury.
There is no direct train service currently available from Exeter to Canterbury.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Exeter to Canterbury.
The train station in Exeter that goes to Canterbury is Exeter St Davids (EXD), which connects to Canterbury West (CBW).
The cheapest way to get from Exeter to Canterbury is by bus, with a cost of around $25 (€20).
The train journey from Exeter to Canterbury showcases scenic views of the English countryside, featuring rolling hills, farmland, and quaint villages, providing a picturesque travel experience.
A day trip from Exeter to Canterbury is not feasible, as the journey takes 4h 18m. There are 13 trains available per day.
In Canterbury, you can explore the historic streets on a guided walking tour, enjoy a punting tour on the River Stour, and visit the Canterbury Tales attraction. Attend a performance at The Marlowe Theatre or discover the local food scene with a culinary tour. Don't miss the Canterbury Cathedral, St. Augustine's Abbey, and the Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint. Additionally, explore the Canterbury Roman Museum and take a leisurely walk in Westgate Gardens.
To fully experience Canterbury, including its historic sites like Canterbury Cathedral, the Roman Museum, and the charming streets, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Exeter to Canterbury.
Since neither Exeter nor Canterbury 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 Canterbury include London, Chatham, Dover, Rochester, Ashford.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Exeter to Canterbury 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 Canterbury, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and around popular tourist sites. Scams involving overcharging or unofficial taxi services can also occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed transportation. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps 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 Canterbury

Exeter
Canterbury
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 Canterbury.
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

More options for your journey from Exeter to Canterbury

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