Exeter to London train with South Western Railway

Tue, Dec 09
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South Western Railway
Great Western Rail
CrossCountry
first_great_western
Regionale
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South Western Railway
Great Western Rail
CrossCountry
first_great_western
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Exeter to London

Showing times and prices for Dec 11

Cheapest price

$56

Average price

$102

Fastest journey

2 h 42 m

Average duration

2 h 47 m

Trains per day

18

Distance

253 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Exeter to London will cost around $102 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $56.

Fast trains

Of the 18 trains that leave Exeter for London on Thu, Dec 11, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Dec 11 the direct trains cover the 253 km distance in an average of 2 h 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 42 m .

On Thu, Dec 11 the slowest trains will take 2 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.

South Western RailwayL47494
08:24AM3h25
Exeter St Davids (EXD)
11:49AMLondon Waterloo (WAT)
$561One-way
0 transfers
South Western RailwayL47494
08:28AM3h21
Exeter Central (EXC)
11:49AMLondon Waterloo (WAT)
$561One-way
0 transfers
Great Western RailP08997+South Western RailwayL47494
08:09AM3h40
Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
11:49AMLondon Waterloo (WAT)
$591One-way
1 transfer
South Western RailwayL47505
09:30AM3h19
Exeter Central (EXC)
12:49PMLondon Waterloo (WAT)
$901One-way
0 transfers
South Western RailwayL47505
09:25AM3h24
Exeter St Davids (EXD)
12:49PMLondon Waterloo (WAT)
$901One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Exeter to London

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Exeter to London among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 48m. 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 €14, and a train costs an average of €25.

Distance: 157 miles (253 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€59

Average price

€27

Average price

Cheapest

3h 18m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 48m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 24m

Average total duration

4h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

South Western Railway

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Exeter to London train times

The table below shows live departures for Exeter to London trains for today, Wednesday, December 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 2:06 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
south_west_trains5:25 PM Exeter
3h40
9:05 PM London0 transfersDirect
Thursday, December 11
great_westernP08841+cross_countryC23658+great_westernP08479
On time
8:04 AM Exeter Central (EXC)
3h16
11:20 AM London Paddington (PAD)
2 transfers
great_westernP08997+south_west_trainsL47494
On time
8:09 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
3h40
11:49 AM London Waterloo (WAT)
1 transfer
great_westernP08997+cross_countryC23658+great_westernP08479
On time
8:09 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
3h11
11:20 AM London Paddington (PAD)
2 transfers
south_west_trainsL47494
On time
8:24 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
3h25
11:49 AM London Waterloo (WAT)
0 transfersDirect
cross_countryC23658+great_westernP08479
On time
8:27 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
2h53
11:20 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1 transfer
south_west_trainsL47494
On time
8:28 AM Exeter Central (EXC)
3h21
11:49 AM London Waterloo (WAT)
0 transfersDirect
great_westernP09752 · V36593
On time
8:53 AM Exeter Central (EXC)
3h05
11:58 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1 transfer
great_westernP08999 · V36593
On time
9:05 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
2h53
11:58 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1 transfer
great_westernP08999+south_west_trainsL47505
On time
9:05 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
3h44
12:49 PM London Waterloo (WAT)
1 transfer
great_westernP08999+cross_countryC23661+great_westernP08481
On time
9:05 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
3h06
12:11 PM London Paddington (PAD)
2 transfers
great_westernP08844+cross_countryC23661+great_westernP08481
On time
9:14 AM Exeter Central (EXC)
2h57
12:11 PM London Paddington (PAD)
2 transfers
great_westernV36593
On time
9:16 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
2h42
11:58 AM London Paddington (PAD)
0 transfersDirect
south_west_trainsL47505
On time
9:25 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
3h24
12:49 PM London Waterloo (WAT)
0 transfersDirect
cross_countryC23661+great_westernP08481
On time
9:27 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
2h44
12:11 PM London Paddington (PAD)
1 transfer
south_west_trainsL47505
On time
9:30 AM Exeter Central (EXC)
3h19
12:49 PM London Waterloo (WAT)
0 transfersDirect
great_westernP09754 · P09000 · V36592
On time
9:36 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
3h21
12:57 PM London Paddington (PAD)
2 transfers
great_westernP09756 · V36592
On time
9:52 AM Exeter Central (EXC)
3h05
12:57 PM London Paddington (PAD)
1 transfer
great_westernV36592
On time
10:15 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
2h42
12:57 PM London Paddington (PAD)
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 London by train or bus

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Why should you book Exeter to London trains with Omio?

South Western Railway as well as Great Western Rail, CrossCountry and first_great_western offer trains services from Exeter to London. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Exeter to London.

Why book with Omio vs South Western Railway?

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

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Multiple travel company options: While South Western Railway tickets can be bought on South Western Railway's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of Great Western Rail, CrossCountry and first_great_western to help you choose the right option for your journey from Exeter to London.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Exeter to London.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Exeter to London?

The best time to book your train from Exeter to London is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Exeter to London route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Exeter to London per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Exeter to London.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Exeter to London

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Exeter to London run on average 27 times per day, taking around 2h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $31 (€25) but you can travel from only $18 (€14) by bus.

There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 157 miles (253 km) distance in 2h 34m.

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 $18 (€14)
Distance
157 miles (253 km)
Average train duration
2h 48m
Cheapest ticket price
$31 (€25)
Trains per day
27
Direct trains
11
Fastest train
2h 34m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:57
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 $18 (€14)

Train companies: South Western Railway, Great Western Rail, CrossCountry, first_great_western from Exeter to London trainsSouth Western Railway, Great Western Rail, CrossCountry, first_great_western trains will get you between Exeter and London from $18 (€14). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

South Western Railway

About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest Price
$31 (€25)
South Western Railway frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone

Great Western Rail

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 34m
Cheapest Price
$90 (€72)
Great Western Rail frequency
15 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

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
CrossCountry frequency
1 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

first_great_western

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 4m
Cheapest Price
$214 (€173)
first_great_western frequency
16 a day

Traveling by train from Exeter to London

The train connection between Exeter and London is well-served by several providers, including South Western Railway, Great Western Railway, and Cross Country. With frequent services throughout the day, travelers can enjoy a comfortable journey that typically takes around 2 to 3 hours. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, these trains offer convenient access to both cities' vibrant attractions and rich culture.

Train Connection: Exeter to London

The train connection from Exeter to London takes approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes. There are up to 24 connections available each day, all of which are direct services. The departure stations include Exeter St Davids, Pinhoe, and Exeter Central, while the arrival stations in London are Clapham Junction, London Waterloo, and London Paddington.

Exeter to London Train Connection

The first daily train from Exeter to London departs at 05:14, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the capital. The last journey of the day leaves at 22:49, allowing late-night arrivals into one of Europe's most vibrant cities.

Train Tickets Price for Exeter to London

The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Exeter to London is €34. The average ticket price tends to be around €63, providing travelers with a range of options depending on their booking preferences and timing.

Exploring London's Historic Landmarks

The Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has stood for over 1,000 years as a royal palace, fortress, and prison. Its significance lies in its role as the home of the Crown Jewels and its storied past involving infamous figures like Anne Boleyn and Richard III. Unique features include the iconic White Tower at its center and the Yeoman Warders—also known as Beefeaters—who provide fascinating insights into this historic site.

Buckingham Palace serves not only as the official residence of Her Majesty The Queen but also symbolizes British monarchy's enduring legacy. This grand structure is significant for hosting state occasions and ceremonies that reflect Britain's rich history. One unique feature is the Changing of the Guard ceremony—a colorful spectacle that draws visitors from around the world to witness this time-honored tradition.

The British Museum houses an unparalleled collection spanning thousands of years from cultures across every continent; it’s truly a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. Its significance stems from being one of the first public museums in existence, dedicated to sharing knowledge with all people regardless of background or wealth. Among its unique features are artifacts like the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies that offer glimpses into ancient civilizations' lives while sparking curiosity about our shared human heritage.

FAQs: Trains from Exeter to London

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

FAQs
A day trip from Exeter to London is not feasible as the travel time is 2h 34m. However, trains run frequently with 27 trips per day, covering a distance of 157 miles (253 km).
Train ticket prices from Exeter to London can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $31 (€25), while the average price is around $73 (€59).
For a comprehensive experience of London's top attractions, cultural sites, and local neighborhoods, it is recommended to spend around 3 to 5 days in the city. This allows time to explore major landmarks such as the British Museum, Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace, as well as enjoy local markets and parks.
The cheapest way to get from Exeter to London is by bus, with a cost of around $18 (€14).
The train journey from Exeter to London offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque countryside of Devon and Somerset, with highlights including the coastal stretch around Dawlish and views of rolling hills and rural landscapes.
In London, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from The London Eye, visit the vibrant West End Theatre District for high-quality shows, and explore Camden Market's eclectic mix of food, fashion, and crafts. A walk through Hyde Park offers beautiful landscapes and recreational activities, while art lovers can visit the Tate Modern. Don't miss The British Museum's vast collection of art and antiquities, the historic Tower of London with its Crown Jewels, and Buckingham Palace. Iconic landmarks like The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, along with St. Paul's Cathedral, offer a glimpse into the city's rich history and architecture.
The first train from Exeter to London leaves at 12:01 AM.
The train from Exeter to London takes 2h 34m and runs 27 per day.
The distance by train from Exeter to London is 157 miles (253 km).
Yes, you can take the train from Exeter to London.
The train station in Exeter that goes to London is Exeter St Davids (EXD), which connects to London Paddington (PAD).
The last train from Exeter to London leaves at 11:57 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Exeter to London. This service operates 11 times per day, provided by South Western Railway, Great Western Rail, first_great_western.
There is no high speed train available from Exeter to London.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Exeter to London.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Exeter to London

Exeter
London
The major train station for departures in Exeter is Digby & Sowton. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Digby & Sowton for your trip from Exeter to London.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: No
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Step free Category A - Step free access is available to the platform via a ramp & Bridge from the station car park. 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 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: Yes
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Digby & Sowton
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: From the station forecourt over the footbridge
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
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

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