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The cheapest and fastest trains from Exeter to Leicester
Showing times and prices for May 28
Cheapest price
$100
Average price
$163
Fastest journey
3 h 43 m
Average duration
3 h 53 m
Trains per day
16
Distance
269 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Exeter to Leicester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Exeter to Leicester will cost around $163 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $100.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Exeter to Leicester without transferring at least once.
G01062 · G008087:20 AM3h51Exeter St Davids (EXD)11:11 AMLeicester station (LEI)$1001One-way1 transfer- G01064 · G008128:27 AM3h43Exeter St Davids (EXD)12:10 PMLeicester station (LEI)$1001One-way1 transfer
- G01060 · G008066:25 AM3h48Exeter St Davids (EXD)10:13 AMLeicester station (LEI)$1001One-way1 transfer
C47993 · G14921+
W70975+
Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International8:50 AM4h45St James' Park (SJP)1:35 PMLeicester station (LEI)$1071One-way3 transfers- G14921+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+W709759:16 AM4h19Exeter St Davids (EXD)1:35 PMLeicester station (LEI)$1071One-way2 transfers
- G01064 · G008128:27 AM3h43Exeter St Davids (EXD)12:10 PMLeicester station (LEI)$1001One-way1 transfer
- G01060 · G008066:25 AM3h48Exeter St Davids (EXD)10:13 AMLeicester station (LEI)$1001One-way1 transfer
- G01062 · G008087:20 AM3h51Exeter St Davids (EXD)11:11 AMLeicester station (LEI)$1001One-way1 transfer
- Y41864+G01064 · G008128:09 AM4h01Exeter St Thomas (EXT)12:10 PMLeicester station (LEI)$1241One-way2 transfers
- Y41858+G01062 · G008087:07 AM4h04Exeter St Thomas (EXT)11:11 AMLeicester station (LEI)$1241One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Exeter to Leicester
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Exeter to Leicester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 32m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $21, and a train costs an average of $39.
Distance: 167 miles (269 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$110 Average price | $32 Average price Cheapest | $69 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 2m Average total duration Fastest 3h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 21m Average total duration 6h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 43m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Leicester is a bus with an average price of $32 (€26).
This is compared to other travel options from Exeter to Leicester:
A bus is $79 (€64) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Exeter to Leicester costing on average $110 (€89).
The fastest way to travel from Exeter to Leicester is by train with an average journey time of 3h 32m.
Other travel options to Leicester take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 51m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Exeter and Leicester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Exeter to Leicester 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 11m sooner (3h 32m by train vs 3h 43m by car). Tickets start at around $110 (€89) compared to roughly $69 (€56) 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 Leicester train times
The table below shows live departures for Exeter to Leicester trains for tomorrow, Thursday, May 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G01060 · G00806 | 6:25 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 3h48 | 10:13 AM Leicester station (LEI) | 1 transfer | |
| C47985+G01062 · G00808 | 6:40 AM St James' Park (SJP) | 4h31 | 11:11 AM Leicester station (LEI) | 2 transfers | |
| W34553+W70961+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International | 6:52 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 4h13 | 11:05 AM Leicester station (LEI) | 2 transfers | |
| Y41858+G01062 · G00808 | 7:07 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 4h04 | 11:11 AM Leicester station (LEI) | 2 transfers | |
| G01062 · G00808 | 7:20 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 3h51 | 11:11 AM Leicester station (LEI) | 1 transfer | |
| Y41861 · W34555+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+W70967 | 7:35 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 4h30 | 12:05 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 3 transfers | |
| C47988+G01064 · G00812 | 7:50 AM St James' Park (SJP) | 4h20 | 12:10 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 2 transfers | |
| W34555+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+W70967 | 7:52 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 4h13 | 12:05 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 2 transfers | |
| Y41864+G01064 · G00812 | 8:09 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 4h01 | 12:10 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 2 transfers | |
| G01064 · G00812 | 8:27 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 3h43 | 12:10 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 1 transfer | |
| C47993+G00869_G01067 · G00814 | 8:50 AM St James' Park (SJP) | 4h20 | 1:10 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 2 transfers | |
| C47993 · G14921+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+W70975 | 8:50 AM St James' Park (SJP) | 4h45 | 1:35 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 3 transfers | |
| Y41870+G00869_G01067 · G00814 | 9:05 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 4h05 | 1:10 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 2 transfers | |
| Y41870 · G14921+W70975+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International | 9:05 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 4h30 | 1:35 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 3 transfers | |
| G14921+W70975+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International | 9:16 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 4h19 | 1:35 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 2 transfers | |
| C47995 · Y41873 · W34562+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International | 9:36 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 5h00 | 2:36 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 4 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Exeter to Leicester by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
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May 28
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Why should you book Exeter to Leicester trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more offer trains services from Exeter to Leicester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Exeter to Leicester.
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 Leicester.
- 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Exeter to Leicester.
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 Leicester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Exeter to Leicester.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Exeter to Leicester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Exeter to Leicester run on average 15 times per day, taking around 3h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $39 (€32) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:42, the last at 23:09. The fastest train covers the 167 miles (269 km) distance in 3h 43m.
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 $21 (€17)
Distance 167 miles (269 km) |
Average train duration 3h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $39 (€32) |
Trains per day 15 |
Fastest train 3h 43m |
First train 12:42 AM |
Last train 11:09 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 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 $21 (€17)
Train companies: CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Exeter to Leicester trainsCrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Exeter and Leicester from $21 (€17). 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
3h 43m
Cheapest Price
$39 (€32)
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
4h 19m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€52)
Great Western Railway frequency
6 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
3h 12m
Cheapest Price
$314 (€254)
Cross Country frequency
11 a day
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 29m
Cheapest Price
$279 (€225)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Trains from Exeter to Leicester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Exeter to Leicester 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 Leicester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Exeter to Leicester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $39 (€32), while the average price is around $110 (€89).
The train from Exeter to Leicester takes 3h 43m and runs 15 per day.
The first train from Exeter to Leicester leaves at 12:42 AM.
The distance by train from Exeter to Leicester is 167 miles (269 km).
The last train from Exeter to Leicester leaves at 11:09 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Exeter to Leicester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Exeter to Leicester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Exeter to Leicester.
The train station in Exeter that goes to Leicester is Exeter St Davids (EXD), which connects to Leicester station (LEI).
The cheapest way to get from Exeter to Leicester is by bus, with a cost of around $21 (€17).
The train journey from Exeter to Leicester offers a mix of scenic views, with highlights including the rolling hills of the South West, the picturesque countryside of Somerset and Gloucestershire, and glimpses of historic towns, providing a pleasant travel experience.
A day trip from Exeter to Leicester is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 43m. However, there are 13 trains available per day, covering a distance of 167 miles (269 km).
Typically, 2 to 3 days are sufficient to explore Leicester's main attractions, including the King Richard III Visitor Centre, Leicester Cathedral, and the National Space Centre.
Yes, you can take the train from Exeter to Leicester.
Since neither Exeter nor Leicester 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 Leicester include Nottingham, Birmingham, Derby, Loughborough, Beeston.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Exeter to Leicester 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 Leicester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers who are not licensed and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. Staying vigilant in busy spots and using licensed services helps ensure a safer 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 Leicester
Exeter
Leicester
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 Leicester.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rentalinformation
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
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: WHSmith
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
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
- 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
- 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
WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
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
- 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
WifiShoppingParkingDining
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 07:50 - 18:15 Saturday 07:50 - 18:15 Sunday 09:30 - 16:30
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Taxis
- Taxi: Yes
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
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
- 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
- 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
The major train station for arrivals in Leicester is Leicester. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leicester for your journey to Leicester from Exeter.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:20 - 22:30 Saturday 05:20 - 22:30 Sunday 07:15 - 22:30
Parking
- Car Park: Short stay car park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a Category A access station. There is step free access to the main entrance and lifts to all platforms. Customers with wheelchairs who require assistance on graduated slopes should press the ticket gate 'assistance' button located at the bottom of the stairs near the self service ticket machines. To ensure availability of staff to assist, it is imperative that customers book assistance in advance. This station has tactile paving at the edge of all platforms and at the bottom of all staircases.
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on the Main Concourse, Platform 1/2 and Platform 3/4. The National key toilets are located on Platform 1/2 and Platform 3/4; these toilets are operated by a radar key. The radar key is available from the Duty Manager located on the end of Platform 3/4.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Cycle hub situated on the lower floor (old Red Star parcels area) which can be accessed via the lift located to the left of the Customer Information desk. Stands also available in main car park and station front near short stay car park.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 08000 11 33 23
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Leicester
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Coaches leave from the Station front
Most popular train connections from Exeter
More options for your journey from Exeter to Leicester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leicester and Exeter
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