Exeter to Cardiff train with CrossCountry

Sun, Jun 21
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Exeter to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$75

Average price

$91

Fastest journey

2 h 7 m

Average duration

2 h 10 m

Trains per day

10

Distance

88 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Exeter to Cardiff will cost around $91 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $75.

Fast trains

Of the 10 trains that leave Exeter for Cardiff on Sun, Jun 21, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 88 km distance in an average of 2 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 7 m .

On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 2 h 17 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.

  • CrossCountryG00871+Great Western RailwayC47979
    11:34 AM2h32
    Exeter St Davids (EXD)
    2:06 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $751One-way
    1 transfer
  • Great Western RailwayC48451
    10:50 AM2h08
    Exeter St Davids (EXD)
    12:58 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $921One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayC50036
    9:46 AM2h13
    Exeter St Davids (EXD)
    11:59 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $921One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayC50035
    7:59 AM2h25
    Exeter St Davids (EXD)
    10:24 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $921One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayY41857 · C48451
    10:04 AM2h54
    Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
    12:58 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $921One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Exeter to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Exeter to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 6m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $13, and a train costs an average of $25.

Distance: 54 miles (88 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$71

Average price

$18

Average price

Cheapest

$39

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 36m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 58m

Average total duration

3h 28m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 6m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

Megabus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

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 Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $18 (€14).

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

A bus is $54 (€44) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Exeter to Cardiff costing on average $71 (€58).

The fastest way to travel from Exeter to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 2h 6m.

Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 28m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Exeter and Cardiff including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Exeter to Cardiff 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 $71 (€58) compared to roughly $39 (€32) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-32.58 (€-26.65). The journey takes 2h 6m versus 2h 6m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Exeter to Cardiff train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountryG01065+Great Western RailwayC42174
On time
8:27 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
2h13
10:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayY41868 · C42700
On time
8:37 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
2h33
11:10 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayC42700
On time
8:48 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
2h22
11:10 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayC42473 · C42701
On time
9:06 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
3h06
12:12 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayC42473+CrossCountryG01068+Great Western RailwayW34615
On time
9:06 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
2h34
11:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG01068+Great Western RailwayW34615
On time
9:27 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
2h13
11:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayC42701
On time
9:52 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
2h20
12:12 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayC42475 · C42702
On time
10:06 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
3h04
1:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayC42475+CrossCountryG01070+Great Western RailwayC42175
On time
10:06 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
2h34
12:40 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG01070+Great Western RailwayC42175
On time
10:27 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
2h13
12:40 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayC42702
On time
10:43 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
2h27
1:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 transfersDirect
Sunday, June 21
Great Western RailwayC500357:59 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
2h25
10:24 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)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 Cardiff by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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 Cardiff trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more offer trains services from Exeter to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Exeter to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Exeter to Cardiff.
  • 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Exeter to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Exeter to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Exeter to Cardiff run on average 18 times per day, taking around 2h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 (€21) but you can travel from only $13 (€11) by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 22:44. The fastest train covers the 54 miles (88 km) distance in 1h 58m.

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 $13 (€11)
Distance
54 miles (88 km)
Average train duration
2h 6m
Cheapest ticket price
$25 (€21)
Trains per day
18
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
1h 58m
First train
5:07 AM
Last train
10:44 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
77 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 $13 (€11)

Train companies: CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Exeter to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Exeter and Cardiff from $13 (€11). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 58m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€21)
CrossCountry frequency
10 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

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
2h 8m
Cheapest Price
$51 (€42)
Great Western Railway frequency
9 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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 50m
Cheapest Price
$159 (€130)
Cross Country frequency
12 a day

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 8m
Cheapest Price
$79 (€65)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
13 a day

Complete guide to Cardiff

Things to do in Cardiff

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

  • Must visit

National Museum Cardiff

Major national museum with art, natural history, and geology collections in central Cardiff.

  • Must visit

St Fagans National Museum of History

Open-air museum showcasing Welsh historic buildings, traditions, and everyday life on a large heritage site.

  • Recommended

Museum of Cardiff

City museum covering Cardiff’s social history, industry, communities, and urban development.

Pound Sterling

Generally cheaper than London. Hotels can rise on event days, but food, transport, and pubs are usually moderate for UK city travel.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a casual lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 18-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.

Tipping culture

Service charge is not always included. Tip about 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service, round up taxis, and tipping in pubs or cafes is optional.

FAQs: Trains from Exeter to Cardiff

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Exeter to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25 (€21), while the average price is around $71 (€58).
The train from Exeter to Cardiff takes 1h 58m and runs 18 per day.
The distance by train from Exeter to Cardiff is 54 miles (88 km).
The first train from Exeter to Cardiff leaves at 5:07 AM.
The last train from Exeter to Cardiff leaves at 10:44 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Exeter to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train from Exeter to Cardiff. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Exeter to Cardiff.
The train station in Exeter that goes to Cardiff is Exeter St Davids (EXD), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Exeter to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $13 (€11).
Yes, the train journey from Exeter to Cardiff is scenic, offering views of the rolling countryside, picturesque villages, and stretches along the coastline, particularly between Exeter and Taunton.
A day trip from Exeter to Cardiff is not feasible due to the travel duration of 1h 58m. However, there are 17 train trips available per day for this route. The distance is 54 miles (88 km).
In Cardiff, you can enjoy a variety of activities and sights. Attend performances at the Millennium Centre, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city center, or take a scenic boat tour around Cardiff Bay. For adventure, visit Cardiff International White Water for rafting and kayaking. Shop and dine at Cardiff Market. Discover history at Cardiff Castle and St Fagans National Museum of History, explore art and culture at the National Museum Cardiff, and relax in Bute Park. Cardiff Bay also offers dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions.
A visit of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient to explore Cardiff's main attractions, such as Cardiff Castle, the National Museum, and Cardiff Bay, while allowing time for leisure and dining experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Exeter to Cardiff.
Since neither Exeter nor Cardiff 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 Cardiff include Swansea, Bristol, Bath, Newport, Gloucester.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Exeter to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Cardiff Central Station and popular tourist spots. Taxi scams can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional street distractions designed to divert attention while accomplices attempt theft. Staying vigilant 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 Cardiff

Exeter
Cardiff
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 Cardiff.
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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