- Must visit
John Taylor Bellfoundry Museum
Unique museum inside the historic bell foundry, telling the story of bellmaking and casting. A signature Loughborough attraction with working heritage nearby.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Exeter to Loughborough
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$110
Average price
$110
Fastest journey
4 h 40 m
Average duration
4 h 40 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
278 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Exeter to Loughborough is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Exeter to Loughborough will cost around $110 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $110.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Exeter for Loughborough on Wed, Aug 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 278 km distance in an average of 4 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 40 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 4 h 40 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.
8:05 AM4h40Exeter12:45 PMLoughborough$1101One-way0 transfers- 9:05 AM4h40Exeter1:45 PMLoughborough$1101One-way0 transfers
- 9:05 AM4h40Exeter1:45 PMLoughborough$1101One-way0 transfers
- 8:05 AM4h40Exeter12:45 PMLoughborough$1101One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Exeter to Loughborough
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Exeter to Loughborough among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $38. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 0m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $38, and a train costs an average of $55.
Distance: 172 miles (278 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$139 Average price | $53 Average price Cheapest | $72 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 30m Average total duration Fastest 5h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 55m Average total duration 8h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 41m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Exeter to Loughborough is a bus with an average price of $53.
This is compared to other travel options from Exeter to Loughborough:
A bus is $87 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Exeter to Loughborough costing on average $139.
The fastest way to travel from Exeter to Loughborough is by train with an average journey time of 5h 0m.
Other travel options to Loughborough take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Exeter and Loughborough including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Exeter to Loughborough 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 $139 compared to roughly $72 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-67.21. The journey takes 5h 0m versus 3h 41m 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 Loughborough train times
The table below shows live departures for Exeter to Loughborough trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:05 AM Exeter | 4h40 | 12:45 PM Loughborough | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:05 AM Exeter | 4h40 | 1:45 PM Loughborough | 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 Loughborough 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.
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Exeter to Loughborough
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Exeter to Loughborough run on average 14 times per day, taking around 5h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $55 but you can travel from only $38 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:42, the last at 22:55. The fastest train covers the 172 miles (278 km) distance in 4h 25m.
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 $38
Distance 172 miles (278 km) |
Average train duration 5h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $55 |
Trains per day 14 |
Fastest train 4h 25m |
First train 12:42 AM |
Last train 10:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 5 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 $38
Train companies: Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Exeter to Loughborough trainsCross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Exeter and Loughborough from $38. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 18m
Cheapest Price
$319
Cross Country frequency
16 a day
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 6m
Cheapest Price
$296
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Loughborough
Things to do in Loughborough
Discover the best of Loughborough — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Loughborough trip today.
- Recommended
Charnwood Museum
Museum in Queen’s Park with local history, archaeology, and the famous Carillon tower. Ideal for understanding the town’s heritage in one stop.
- Recommended
Martin Hall Exhibition Space
University arts venue presenting changing exhibitions, design, and contemporary culture. A strong choice for visitors interested in current creative work.
- Must visit
Queen's Park
The town’s best-known green space with formal gardens, play areas, and the Carillon tower. Ideal for a relaxing break near the centre.
- Recommended
Market Place
Historic shopping and civic area with market-town character, regular activity, and easy access to landmarks. A practical place to start exploring Loughborough.
- Recommended
Loughborough University Campus
Attractive university campus with open lawns, public art, and notable modern architecture. A pleasant walking area showing a different side of the town.
Melton Mowbray Pork Pie
A Leicestershire pork pie with seasoned pork and firm jelly in a hand-raised crust. Nearby Melton Mowbray made it famous and it is a classic regional snack.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Stilton
Stilton made in the traditional Leicestershire style. This rich blue cheese is one of the East Midlands’ best-known foods and is widely served locally.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Red Leicester Cheese
A red, nutmeg-spiced Leicestershire cheese with a mild, creamy taste. It is a longstanding county speciality often eaten in sandwiches or on cheeseboards.
Caravelli
Contemporary Indian dining with refined presentation, regional specialities, and attentive service suited to a more upscale meal.
The Basin
Established Indian restaurant known for classic curries and tandoori dishes in a smart yet relaxed setting popular with locals.
Fernandez Grillhouse
Popular casual venue for burgers, wings, loaded fries, and craft beer with an energetic modern atmosphere.
British pound (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels are often cheaper than London, while dining and local transport are fairly typical for an English market town.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included only at some restaurants. If not, 10-12.5% is polite for good service. Round up taxi fares. Tipping in cafes is optional, usually small change.
Kinchbus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5.20
To the city center
Loughborough Station -> Loughborough Town Centre
- Distance
- 1.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Most Kinchbus services in Loughborough accept contactless card payment on board. Check the fare before boarding as driver-issued tickets vary by route.
- Loughborough Station is outside the town centre, so Sprint or local buses are usually the simplest connection. Allow extra time on university term dates.
FAQs: Trains from Exeter to Loughborough
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Exeter to Loughborough 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 Loughborough, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Exeter to Loughborough can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $55, while the average price is around $139.
The train from Exeter to Loughborough takes 4h 25m and runs 14 per day.
The distance by train from Exeter to Loughborough is 172 miles (278 km).
The first train from Exeter to Loughborough leaves at 12:42 AM.
The last train from Exeter to Loughborough leaves at 10:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Exeter to Loughborough.
There is no direct train service currently available from Exeter to Loughborough.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Exeter to Loughborough.
The train station in Exeter that goes to Loughborough is Exeter St Davids (EXD), which connects to Loughborough station (LBO).
The cheapest way to get from Exeter to Loughborough is by bus, with a cost of around $38.
The train journey from Exeter to Loughborough offers scenic views of the English countryside, including rolling hills and charming rural landscapes, especially as the train travels through areas like Somerset and the Midlands.
A day trip from Exeter to Loughborough is not feasible as the journey duration is 4h 25m. However, trains run 11 times per day, covering a distance of 172 miles (278 km).
A two to three-day visit to Loughborough is ideal to explore the main attractions, including the Great Central Railway, Queen's Park, and the Loughborough Carillon Tower, while also enjoying local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Exeter to Loughborough.
Since neither Exeter nor Loughborough 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 Loughborough include Leicester, Derby, Nottingham, Beeston, Market Harborough.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Exeter to Loughborough 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 Loughborough, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as the town center and during events. Common scams include overcharging by taxis without meters and unofficial ticket sellers near transport hubs. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and purchase tickets from official vendors to avoid fraud. Additionally, travelers should stay aware of their surroundings at night, particularly in less busy areas.
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 Loughborough
Most Exeter to Loughborough trains use the Exeter St Davids to Loughborough station pair. Use this guide to compare Exeter and Loughborough 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 Loughborough
Which Exeter station do trains to Loughborough leave from?
Trains from Exeter to Loughborough 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 Loughborough station do trains from Exeter arrive at?
Trains from Exeter to Loughborough arrive at Loughborough. Loughborough is 0 miles (1 km) from Loughborough city centre.
LoughboroughLoughborough Railway Station, Nottingham Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 1EX, United Kingdom+44 345 712 5678
City-centre transport
Getting to Loughborough from Loughborough city centre
Loughborough is 1 km from Loughborough city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus127 · 4m · $2 · every ~11 min
Sky · 11m · $2 · every ~15 min
Loughborough train station facilities and services
Loughborough has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Basin, The Orange Tree
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Loughborough. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Loughborough. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Loughborough: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Loughborough: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Loughborough: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Premier Inn Loughborough, Travelodge Loughborough Central, Ramada Loughborough Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Exeter
More options for your journey from Exeter to Loughborough
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Loughborough and Exeter
Most popular train connections to Loughborough
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