- Must visit
Derby Museum and Art Gallery
Derby’s leading museum with art, archaeology, and natural history, best known for its important Joseph Wright collection.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Exeter to Derby
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$48
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$78
Fastest journey on Sep 19
3 h 9 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
4 h 12 m
Trains on Sep 19
4
Distance
282 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Exeter to Derby is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Exeter to Derby will cost around $78 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $48.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 4 trains from Exeter to Derby, including 4 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 282 km distance in an average of 4 h 12 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 9 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 4 h 53 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.
11:43 AM3h54Exeter3:37 PMDerby$481One-way0 transfers- 10:27 AM3h09Exeter1:36 PMDerby$491One-way0 transfers
9:15 AM4h53Exeter2:08 PMDerby$901One-way0 transfers- 10:16 AM4h52Exeter3:08 PMDerby$1251One-way0 transfers
- 10:27 AM3h09Exeter1:36 PMDerby$491One-way0 transfers
- 11:43 AM3h54Exeter3:37 PMDerby$481One-way0 transfers
- 10:16 AM4h52Exeter3:08 PMDerby$1251One-way0 transfers
- 9:15 AM4h53Exeter2:08 PMDerby$901One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Exeter to Derby
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Exeter to Derby among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $52 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 3m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $52, while a flight costs an average of $174.
Distance: 175 miles (282 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$147 Average price | $52 Average price Cheapest | $174 Average price | $73 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 51m Average total duration 3h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 8m Average total duration 7h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 3m Average total duration Fastest 1h 3m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 53m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
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 Derby is a bus with an average price of $52.
This is compared to other travel options from Exeter to Derby:
A bus is $95 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Exeter to Derby costing on average $147.
A bus is $121 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Exeter to Derby costing on average $174.
The fastest way to travel from Exeter to Derby is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 3m.
Other travel options to Derby take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 21m.
Bus takes on average 7h 38m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Exeter and Derby including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Exeter to Derby 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 32m sooner (3h 21m by train vs 3h 53m by car). Tickets start at around $147 compared to roughly $73 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.
Direct services run with Cross Country.
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 Derby train times
The table below shows live departures for Exeter to Derby trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:27 PM Exeter | 3h21 | 8:48 PM Derby | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
| 9:15 AM Exeter | 4h53 | 2:08 PM Derby | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:16 AM Exeter | 4h52 | 3:08 PM Derby | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:27 AM Exeter | 3h09 | 1:36 PM Derby | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:43 AM Exeter | 3h54 | 3:37 PM Derby | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Exeter to Derby 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
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Sep 20
Sep 20
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Sep 21
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Why should you book Exeter to Derby trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway offer trains services from Exeter to Derby.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Exeter to Derby.
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 to find the best option for your trip from Exeter to Derby.
- 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Exeter to Derby.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Exeter to Derby.
- 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 Derby.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Exeter to Derby
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Exeter to Derby run on average 16 times per day, taking around 3h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $45 but you can travel from only $33 by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:42, the last at 22:58. The fastest train covers the 175 miles (282 km) distance in 2h 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 $33
Distance 175 miles (282 km) |
Average train duration 3h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price $45 |
Trains per day 16 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 2h 57m |
First train 12:42 AM |
Last train 10:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 $33
Train companies: CrossCountry, Great Western Railway from Exeter to Derby trainsCrossCountry, Great Western Railway trains will get you between Exeter and Derby from $33. 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 CrossCountry Duration
2h 57m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$45
CrossCountry frequency
12 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 Great Western Railway Duration
4h 3m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$93
Great Western Railway frequency
5 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
Complete guide to Derby
Things to do in Derby
Discover the best of Derby — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Derby trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Making at Derby Silk Mill
Excellent museum of making in a restored silk mill, exploring Derby’s industrial innovation with interactive displays and river views.
- Recommended
Pickford's House Museum
Historic Georgian house with period rooms and changing displays, offering an intimate look at local life and Derby’s past residents.
- Must visit
Darley Park
Riverside public park with mature trees, gardens, and monuments, ideal for a gentle walk close to Derby’s museums and cathedral.
- Must visit
Cathedral Quarter
Compact historic quarter around the cathedral with cobbled lanes, galleries, and heritage buildings, full of local character.
- Recommended
Market Place
Main city-centre square framed by historic buildings, markets, and events; a practical starting point for exploring central Derby.
- Vegetarian
Derbyshire Apple Pudding
A classic Derbyshire pudding of stewed apples topped with a pastry crust. It is a long-standing regional dessert found in local homes and pubs.
- Vegetarian
Derby Sage Cheese Cob
Bread or rolls filled with melted Derby Sage cheese and onion. This simple local snack highlights the county's famous herb-flavoured cheese.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Stilton
A crumbly blue-veined cheese made in Derbyshire. It is one of England's best-known regional cheeses and a staple on local cheeseboards.
Restaurant Zamanis
Refined modern British tasting menus in an elegant, intimate setting. One of Derby's best-known fine dining destinations.
The Dining Room
Stylish restaurant and wine bar serving British and European dishes. Popular for polished cooking and a smart but relaxed atmosphere.
The Brunswick Inn
Historic pub in a former railway building, known for cask ales and classic pub meals. A strong choice for Derby beer culture.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips, but spare change is appreciated.
trentbarton
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £5.20
To the city center
Derby Railway Station -> Derby Riverlights Bus Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on many Derby buses, including trentbarton services. Check the operator before boarding if you need a specific payment method.
- Derby has no tram or metro system, so local public transport is mainly by bus. Buy tickets in the operator app if you want faster boarding.
FAQs: Trains from Exeter to Derby
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Exeter to Derby 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 Derby, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Exeter to Derby can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $45, while the average price is around $147.
The train from Exeter to Derby takes 2h 57m and runs 16 per day.
The first train from Exeter to Derby leaves at 12:42 AM.
The distance by train from Exeter to Derby is 175 miles (282 km).
The last train from Exeter to Derby leaves at 10:58 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Exeter to Derby.
Yes, there is a direct train from Exeter to Derby. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Exeter to Derby.
The train station in Exeter that goes to Derby is Exeter St Davids (EXD), which connects to Derby station (DBY).
The cheapest way to get from Exeter to Derby is by bus, with a cost of around $33.
The train journey from Exeter to Derby offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the rolling hills of Devon and the picturesque countryside of the Midlands. Passengers can enjoy views of lush landscapes, charming villages, and historical sites along the route.
A day trip from Exeter to Derby is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 57m. However, there are 16 trains per day, making it possible to plan for an extended stay. The distance is 175 miles (282 km).
For a fulfilling visit, spending 2 to 3 days in Derby allows you to explore its key attractions such as the Derby Museum and Art Gallery, Derby Cathedral, and the nearby Peak District.
Yes, you can take the train from Exeter to Derby.
Since neither Exeter nor Derby 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 Derby include Leicester, Nottingham, Sheffield, Birmingham, Burton-on-Trent.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Exeter to Derby 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 Derby, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and public transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi services and counterfeit tickets for events or attractions. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, purchase tickets from official vendors, and stay vigilant in crowded places to ensure safety.
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 Derby
Most Exeter to Derby trains use the Exeter St Davids to Derby station pair. Use this guide to compare Exeter and Derby 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 Derby
Which Exeter station do trains to Derby leave from?
Trains from Exeter to Derby leave from Exeter St Davids. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Exeter city centre at Exeter St Davids station, Bonhay Road, Exeter, Devon, EX4 4NT.
Exeter St DavidsExeter St Davids station, Bonhay Road, Exeter, Devon, EX4 4NT+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Exeter St Davids from Exeter city centre
Exeter St Davids is 1 km from Exeter city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus355, 6A, 5B, 4A, 4, 66 · 6m · $2 · every ~20 min
4, 4A, Uni, K · 8m · $2 · every ~19 min
Exeter St Davids train station facilities and services
Exeter St Davids has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Exeter St Davids.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter St Davids. ATMs are available at Exeter St Davids.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Exeter St Davids.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Exeter St Davids: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Exeter St Davids: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter St Davids: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step free Category A station - All platforms can be accessed via Lifts from the sole main station entrance. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Exeter St ThomasExeter St Thomas station, Cowick Street, Exeter, Devon, EX4 1AJ
City-centre transport
Getting to Exeter St Thomas from Exeter city centre
Exeter St Thomas is 1 km from Exeter city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainExmouth - Paignton · 21m · $1 · every ~2 min
BusA, B, C, E, P · 9m · $2 · every ~44 min
Exeter St Thomas train station facilities and services
Exeter St Thomas has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Exeter St Thomas.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter St Thomas.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Exeter St Thomas: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Exeter St Thomas: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter St Thomas: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step free Category C Station - This station does not have step free access to any platform. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Exeter CentralExeter Central station, Queen Street, Exeter, Devon, EX4 3SB+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Exeter Central from Exeter city centre
BusH, K, Uni, 4A, 4 · 3m · $2 · every ~27 min
Exeter Central train station facilities and services
Exeter Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Exeter Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Exeter Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Exeter Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Exeter Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step free Category A station - Both platforms can be accessed via lifts from the main station entrance, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Derby station do trains from Exeter arrive at?
Trains from Exeter to Derby arrive at Derby. Derby is 0 miles (1 km) from Derby city centre.
DerbyDerby station, Railway Terrace, Derby, Derbyshire, DE1 2RU+44 3457125678
City-centre transport
Getting to Derby from Derby city centre
Derby is 1 km from Derby city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus70A · 4m
Sky · 4m · $2 · every ~14 min
U1, Dp1 · 10m · $1 · every ~2 min
Derby train station facilities and services
Derby has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Derby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Derby.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Derby.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Derby: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Derby: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Derby: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A step free station. This station has step free access. There are lifts to all platforms. There is a subway to platforms 2,3,4 and 5. Platforms 6 and 7 are accessed by lift only. This station has tactile paving at the edges of all platforms and at the foot and top of stairwells, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Exeter
More options for your journey from Exeter to Derby
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Derby and Exeter
Most popular train connections to Derby
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