Exeter to Manchester train with CrossCountry

Thu, Oct 29
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Great Western Railway
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Great Western Railway
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Exeter to Manchester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 29

Cheapest price on Oct 29

$89

Average ticket price on Oct 29

$182

Fastest journey on Oct 29

4 h 3 m

Average journey duration on Oct 29

4 h 24 m

Trains on Oct 29

13

Distance

319 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Exeter to Manchester will cost around $182 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $89.

Fast trains

On Thu, Oct 29, we found 13 trains from Exeter to Manchester, including 1 direct services.

On Thu, Oct 29 the direct trains cover the 319 km distance in an average of 4 h 24 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 3 m .

On Thu, Oct 29 the slowest trains will take 4 h 32 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.

  • CrossCountryG01073 · G00872
    11:27 AM4h32
    Exeter St Davids (EXD)
    3:59 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $891One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesG38953+Great Western RailwayY41870 · G15496
    9:05 AM6h08
    Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
    3:13 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $1021One-way
    2 transfers
  • CrossCountryG00865+Transport for WalesG38983+Great Western RailwayG14939 · Y80241
    10:39 AM5h34
    Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
    4:13 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $1021One-way
    3 transfers
  • Transport for WalesG38953+Great Western RailwayG15496
    9:50 AM5h23
    Exeter St Davids (EXD)
    3:13 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $1021One-way
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryG01064+Transport for WalesG38975+Great Western RailwayG14936
    8:27 AM5h46
    Exeter St Davids (EXD)
    2:13 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $1021One-way
    2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Exeter to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Exeter to Manchester run on average 15 times per day, taking around 4h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $49 (€42) but you can travel from only $21 (€18) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:42, the last at 23:09. The fastest train covers the 198 miles (319 km) distance in 3h 49m.

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 (€18)
Distance
198 miles (319 km)
Average train duration
4h 27m
Cheapest ticket price
$49 (€42)
Trains per day
15
Fastest train
3h 49m
First train
12:42 AM
Last train
11:09 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
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 (€18)

Frequently asked questions about your Exeter to Manchester trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Exeter to Manchester.

Train ticket prices from Exeter to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $49 (€42), while the average price is around $150 (€127).
The train from Exeter to Manchester takes 3h 49m and runs 15 per day.
The first train from Exeter to Manchester leaves at 12:42 AM.
The distance by train from Exeter to Manchester is 198 miles (319 km).
The last train from Exeter to Manchester leaves at 11:09 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Exeter to Manchester.

Live departures

Exeter to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Exeter to Manchester trains for today, Wednesday, October 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western RailwayY41864+CrossCountryG01064+Great Western RailwayG14936+Transport for WalesG38975
On time
8:09 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
6h04
2:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3 transfers
Great Western RailwayY41864+CrossCountryG01064 · G66730
On time
8:09 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
4h50
12:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG01064 · G66730
On time
8:27 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
4h32
12:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
CrossCountryG01064+Great Western RailwayG14936+Transport for WalesG38975
On time
8:27 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
5h46
2:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
Great Western RailwayY41870+CrossCountryG00869_G01067 · G66735
On time
9:05 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
4h54
1:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
Great Western RailwayY41870 · G15496+Transport for WalesG38953
On time
9:05 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
6h08
3:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00869_G01067 · G66735
On time
9:27 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
4h32
1:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15496+Transport for WalesG38953
On time
9:50 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
5h23
3:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayY80241+CrossCountryG00865
On time
10:39 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
4h20
2:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayY80241+CrossCountryG00865+Great Western RailwayG14939+Transport for WalesG38983
On time
10:39 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
5h34
4:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3 transfers
CrossCountryG00865
On time
10:56 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
4h03
2:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG00865+Great Western RailwayG14939+Transport for WalesG38983
On time
10:56 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
5h17
4:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Exeter to Manchester trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway, Avanti West Coast and more offer trains services from Exeter to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Exeter to Manchester.

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 Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Exeter to Manchester.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Exeter to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Exeter to Manchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Exeter to Manchester.

Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway, Avanti West Coast from Exeter to Manchester trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Exeter and Manchester from $21 (€18). 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
3h 49m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$49 (€42)
CrossCountry frequency
8 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

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
4h 28m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$68 (€57)
Transport for Wales frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
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 18m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$151 (€128)
Great Western Railway frequency
2 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

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
4h 33m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$180 (€152)
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Exeter and Manchester

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train from Exeter to Manchester.
Yes, there is a night train from Exeter to Manchester.
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.

Complete guide to Manchester

Things to do in Manchester

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

  • Must visit

Science and Industry Museum

Leading museum of science, industry, transport, and computing on a historic railway site. Essential for understanding Manchester's global impact.

  • Must visit

Manchester Art Gallery

Major art museum with Pre-Raphaelite works, design, and changing exhibitions. A central cultural stop with broad appeal.

  • Must visit

Manchester Museum

The University of Manchester museum spans dinosaurs, Egypt, nature, and anthropology. Recently renewed and excellent for varied interests.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost less than London, while dining and transit are manageable for tourists with many mid-range options.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or casual eats.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included. If not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common for good service. Round up or add a little for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.

Plan your visit to Manchester

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Manchester.

The train journey from Exeter to Manchester offers a mix of scenic views, including rolling countryside, charming villages, and sections of the Devon and Somerset landscapes, providing a pleasant visual experience.
Popular day trips by train from Manchester include Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Newton-le-Willows, Chester.
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 Manchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Staying aware of surroundings, particularly at night, helps reduce safety risks.
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.

FAQs: Trains from Exeter to Manchester

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

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Exeter to Manchester.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Exeter to Manchester

Most Exeter to Manchester trains use the Exeter St Davids to Manchester Piccadilly station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester Airport. Use this guide to compare Exeter and Manchester 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 Manchester

Which Exeter station do trains to Manchester leave from?

Trains from Exeter to Manchester 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 3451652030WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
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 · $3 · every ~20 min
4, 4A, Uni, K · 8m · $3 · 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 1AJWifiParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
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 · $2 · every ~2 min
BusA, B, C, E, P · 9m · $3 · 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 3451652030WifiShoppingParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Exeter Central from Exeter city centre

BusH, K, Uni, 4A, 4 · 3m · $3 · 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.

Train stations for Exeter to Manchester

Check train stations information for Exeter and Manchester, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Exeter that goes to Manchester is Exeter St Davids, which connects to Manchester Piccadilly.

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