Exeter to Portsmouth train with South Western Railway

Tue, Jul 21
+ Add return
South Western Railway
Great Western Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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2,000+ travel companies
South Western Railway
Great Western Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Exeter to Portsmouth

Showing times and prices for Jul 21

Cheapest price

$68

Average price

$83

Fastest journey

3 h 22 m

Average duration

3 h 22 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

172 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Exeter to Portsmouth will cost around $83 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $68.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Exeter for Portsmouth on Tue, Jul 21, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Jul 21 the direct trains cover the 172 km distance in an average of 3 h 22 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 22 m .

On Tue, Jul 21 the slowest trains will take 3 h 22 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 Railway
    10:25 AM3h22
    Exeter
    1:47 PMPortsmouth
    $681One-way
    0 transfers
  • South Western Railway
    11:25 AM3h22
    Exeter
    2:47 PMPortsmouth
    $971One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Exeter to Portsmouth

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Exeter to Portsmouth 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 2h 58m. 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 $38, and a train costs an average of $22.

Distance: 106 miles (172 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$81

Average price

$62

Average price

Cheapest

$46

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 28m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 8m

Average total duration

6h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 58m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

South Western Railway

Most popular train company

National Express

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 Portsmouth is a bus with an average price of $62 (€51).

This is compared to other travel options from Exeter to Portsmouth:

A bus is $19 (€16) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Exeter to Portsmouth costing on average $81 (€67).

The fastest way to travel from Exeter to Portsmouth is by train with an average journey time of 2h 58m.

Other travel options to Portsmouth take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 38m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Exeter and Portsmouth including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Exeter to Portsmouth 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 $81 (€67) compared to roughly $46 (€38) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-35.11 (€-28.83). The journey takes 2h 58m versus 2h 58m 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 Portsmouth train times

The table below shows live departures for Exeter to Portsmouth trains for today, Monday, July 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
South Western Railway11:25 AM Exeter
3h22
2:47 PM Portsmouth0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Exeter to Portsmouth 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.

Tue
Jul 21
Wed
Jul 22
Thu
Jul 23
Fri
Jul 24
Sat
Jul 25
Sun
Jul 26
Mon
Jul 27

Why should you book Exeter to Portsmouth trains with Omio?

South Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway offer trains services from Exeter to Portsmouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Exeter to Portsmouth.

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 Railway to find the best option for your trip from Exeter to Portsmouth.
  • 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 Portsmouth.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Exeter to Portsmouth

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Exeter to Portsmouth run on average 18 times per day, taking around 2h 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 22:51. The fastest train covers the 106 miles (172 km) distance in 3h 22m.

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
Distance
106 miles (172 km)
Average train duration
2h 58m
Cheapest ticket price
$22 (€18)
Trains per day
18
Fastest train
3h 22m
First train
12:02 AM
Last train
10:51 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
21 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

Train companies: South Western Railway, Great Western Railway from Exeter to Portsmouth trainsSouth Western Railway, Great Western Railway trains will get you between Exeter and Portsmouth from $22 (€18). 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 22m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
South Western Railway frequency
12 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 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
3h 46m
Cheapest Price
$96 (€79)
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Portsmouth

Things to do in Portsmouth

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

  • Must visit

Mary Rose Museum

World-class museum housing Henry VIII's raised flagship. See the preserved Tudor warship and immersive galleries on life aboard.

  • Must visit

HMS Victory

Museum dedicated to HMS Victory and Nelson's navy. Learn about the Battle of Trafalgar and life in the age of sail.

  • Must visit

HMS Warrior 1860

Historic ironclad from 1860 that changed naval warfare. Explore decks, engine spaces and displays in the Historic Dockyard.

British Pound Sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels often cost less than London, while dining and local transit are mid-range for a coastal city.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£2.80-4 for coffee.

Tipping culture

Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Exeter to Portsmouth

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Exeter to Portsmouth can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $22 (€18), while the average price is around $81 (€67).
The train from Exeter to Portsmouth takes 3h 22m and runs 18 per day.
The distance by train from Exeter to Portsmouth is 106 miles (172 km).
The first train from Exeter to Portsmouth leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Exeter to Portsmouth leaves at 10:51 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Exeter to Portsmouth.
There is no direct train service currently available from Exeter to Portsmouth.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Exeter to Portsmouth.
The train station in Exeter that goes to Portsmouth is Exeter St Davids (EXD), which connects to Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS).
The cheapest way to get from Exeter to Portsmouth is by train, with a cost of around $22 (€18).
Yes, the train journey from Exeter to Portsmouth offers scenic views, including the picturesque countryside of Devon and Hampshire, as well as glimpses of the South Coast.
A day trip from Exeter to Portsmouth is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 22m and the distance is 106 miles (172 km). Trains run 14 times per day.
Spending two to three days in Portsmouth is generally enough to explore key attractions such as the Historic Dockyard, Spinnaker Tower, and enjoy the vibrant waterfront.
Yes, you can take the train from Exeter to Portsmouth.
Since neither Exeter nor Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth include Southampton, Bournemouth, Brighton, Cosham, Havant.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Exeter to Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Historic Dockyard and Gunwharf Quays. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It is advisable to use licensed taxis, keep personal belongings secure, and remain vigilant when approached by strangers offering unsolicited services or deals.
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 Portsmouth

Most Exeter to Portsmouth trains use the Exeter St Davids to Portsmouth & Southsea station pair, with some services arriving at Portsmouth Harbour. Use this guide to compare Exeter and Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth

Which Exeter station do trains to Portsmouth leave from?

Trains from Exeter to Portsmouth 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 · $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 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 · $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 3451652030WifiShoppingParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
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.

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