- Must visit
Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery
Excellent city museum and gallery with archaeology, natural history, and world cultures; the best all-round museum in Exeter.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Holyhead to Exeter
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 29
Cheapest price on Aug 29
$497
Average ticket price on Aug 29
$552
Fastest journey on Aug 29
5 h 52 m
Average journey duration on Aug 29
6 h 3 m
Trains on Aug 29
4
Distance
297 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Holyhead to Exeter is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Holyhead to Exeter will cost around $552 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $497.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Holyhead to Exeter without transferring at least 3 times.
4:21 AM6h23Holyhead10:44 AMExeter$4971One-way3 transfers
5:48 AM5h58Holyhead11:46 AMExeter$5711One-way3 transfers- 6:52 AM5h52Holyhead12:44 PMExeter$5711One-way3 transfers
- 7:46 AM5h57Holyhead1:43 PMExeter$5711One-way3 transfers
- 6:52 AM5h52Holyhead12:44 PMExeter$5711One-way3 transfers
- 7:46 AM5h57Holyhead1:43 PMExeter$5711One-way3 transfers
- 5:48 AM5h58Holyhead11:46 AMExeter$5711One-way3 transfers
- 4:21 AM6h23Holyhead10:44 AMExeter$4971One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train for Holyhead to Exeter
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Holyhead to Exeter among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $323 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 6h 44m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $323, while a train costs an average of $323.
Distance: 184 miles (297 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$323 Average price Cheapest | $103 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 44m Average total duration Fastest 6h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 31m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Holyhead to Exeter is a train with an average price of $323.
The fastest way to travel from Holyhead to Exeter is by train with an average journey time of 6h 14m.
Yes, you can take a train between Holyhead and Exeter.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Holyhead to Exeter 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 $323 compared to roughly $103 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-220.36. The journey takes 6h 14m versus 5h 31m 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
Holyhead to Exeter train times
The table below shows live departures for Holyhead to Exeter trains for today, Friday, August 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:48 PM Holyhead | 5h59 | 8:47 PM Exeter | 3 transfers | |
| 3:36 PM Holyhead | 7h05 | 10:41 PM Exeter | 3 transfers | |
| 7:48 PM Holyhead | 16h36 | 12:24 PM Exeter | 1 transfer | |
| 8:31 PM Holyhead | 12h40 | 9:11 AM Exeter | 3 transfers | |
| Saturday, August 29 | |||||
| 4:21 AM Holyhead | 6h23 | 10:44 AM Exeter | 3 transfers | |
| 5:48 AM Holyhead | 5h58 | 11:46 AM Exeter | 3 transfers | |
| 6:52 AM Holyhead | 5h52 | 12:44 PM Exeter | 3 transfers | |
| 7:46 AM Holyhead | 5h57 | 1:43 PM Exeter | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Holyhead to Exeter by train
Compare train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Aug 29
Aug 29
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Aug 30
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Why should you book Holyhead to Exeter trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Transport for Wales offer trains services from Holyhead to Exeter.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Holyhead to Exeter.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Holyhead to Exeter.
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Holyhead to Exeter
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Holyhead to Exeter run on average 11 times per day, taking around 6h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $114 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:27, the last at 16:27. The fastest train covers the 184 miles (297 km) distance in 5h 31m.
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 184 miles (297 km) |
Average train duration 6h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $114 |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 5h 31m |
First train 5:27 AM |
Last train 4:27 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 28 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: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast from Holyhead to Exeter trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Holyhead and Exeter from $114. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
6h 7m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$114
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
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
5h 31m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$333
CrossCountry frequency
9 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
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
5h 32m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$732
Avanti West Coast frequency
3 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
Complete guide to Exeter
Things to do in Exeter
Discover the best of Exeter — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Exeter trip today.
- Recommended
Topsham Museum and Paper Mill
Interactive museum inside a working paper mill where visitors learn traditional papermaking and local industrial heritage.
- Recommended
Topsham Museum
Small independent museum in a Tudor merchant’s house, showing Topsham’s river trade, local stories, and period interiors.
- Must visit
Northernhay Gardens
Medieval city wall segment and gardens offering one of Exeter’s best walks, with lawns, ruins, and broad urban views.
- Must visit
Exeter Quayside
Historic quay lined with warehouses, canal heritage, walks, and waterside activity; one of Exeter’s most characterful areas.
- Recommended
Cathedral Green
Attractive urban park beside the cathedral, ideal for relaxing and appreciating surrounding historic buildings in the city centre.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Clotted Cream
A rich Devon cream made from slowly heated milk. It is a county staple, famously served on scones in a Devon cream tea.
- Vegetarian
Devon Cream Tea
Traditional Devon cream tea pairs scones with jam and clotted cream, with cream spread before jam in the local style.
- Gluten-free
Devonshire Junket Pie
A hearty baked pudding of layers of potato, onion, and lamb or beef. It is a long-standing Devon farmhouse dish.
Lympstone Manor
Fine dining restaurant known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service in central Exeter.
Rendezvous Wine Bar
Popular modern eatery with seasonal small plates, brunch, and a lively casual atmosphere near the city centre.
The Old Firehouse
Historic quayside pub serving local ales and British classics in a characterful former warehouse by the water.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are mid-priced, buses are reasonable, and attractions are often low-cost versus larger UK tourist cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add 10%. Cafes: tipping is optional, small change appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city center
Exeter St Davids -> Exeter Central Station
- Distance
- 1.3 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Contactless card and mobile payment are accepted on most Stagecoach buses in Exeter. Ask the driver for the cheapest valid fare if unsure.
- For the city centre from Exeter St Davids, the train to Exeter Central is usually the quickest option. Local buses also connect both stations and the city centre.
FAQs: Trains from Holyhead to Exeter
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Holyhead to Exeter 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 Exeter, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Holyhead to Exeter can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $114, while the average price is around $323.
The train from Holyhead to Exeter takes 5h 31m and runs 11 per day.
The first train from Holyhead to Exeter leaves at 5:27 AM.
The distance by train from Holyhead to Exeter is 184 miles (297 km).
The last train from Holyhead to Exeter leaves at 4:27 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Holyhead to Exeter.
There is no direct train service currently available from Holyhead to Exeter.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Holyhead to Exeter.
The train station in Holyhead that goes to Exeter is Holyhead station (HHD), which connects to Exeter St Davids (EXD).
The cheapest way to get from Holyhead to Exeter is by train, with a cost of around $114.
The train journey from Holyhead to Exeter offers scenic views, particularly as it travels along the North Wales coastline and through the picturesque landscapes of Snowdonia National Park. Passengers can enjoy views of rolling hills, lush countryside, and charming coastal towns.
A day trip from Holyhead to Exeter is not feasible as the journey duration is 5h 31m. However, there are 18 train trips available per day covering a distance of 184 miles (297 km).
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Exeter allows visitors to explore the city's historic sites, such as Exeter Cathedral, the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, and the Quayside, while also enjoying local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Holyhead to Exeter.
Since neither Holyhead nor Exeter 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 Exeter include Bristol, Plymouth, Barnstaple, Exmouth, Bath.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Holyhead to Exeter 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 Exeter, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and near popular attractions. Be wary of unofficial taxi services and always use licensed providers to avoid scams. Additionally, travelers should protect personal belongings on public transport and stay alert to common fraud attempts such as overcharging or counterfeit tickets.
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 Holyhead to Exeter
Most Holyhead to Exeter trains use the Holyhead to Exeter St Davids station pair, with some services arriving at Exeter St Thomas. Use this guide to compare Holyhead and Exeter train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Holyhead
Arrival train stations in Exeter
Which Holyhead station do trains to Exeter leave from?
Trains from Holyhead to Exeter leave from Holyhead. The station is from Holyhead city centre at Holyhead station, Station Approach, London Road, Holyhead, Anglesey, LL65 2BT.
HolyheadHolyhead station, Station Approach, London Road, Holyhead, Anglesey, LL65 2BT+44 8705755755
City-centre transport
Getting to Holyhead from Holyhead city centre
Bus545, 4 · 2m · $2 · every ~4 min
Holyhead train station facilities and services
Holyhead has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Holyhead.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Holyhead. ATMs are available at Holyhead.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Holyhead. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Holyhead: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Holyhead: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Holyhead: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B Step free access is via the Celtic Gateway Bridge, the ferry terminal, or via gates on to the platforms either side of Stena House. Transferring between platforms is step-free however distance between ferry terminal and Platform 1 is approximately 200m, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Friday 24 Hours a Day Saturday 00:00 - 21:30 Sunday 07:00 - 00:00, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Exeter station do trains from Holyhead arrive at?
Trains from Holyhead to Exeter most often arrive at Exeter St Davids. Some services arrive at Exeter St Thomas, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Exeter arrival station.
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.
St James' ParkSt James Park (Exeter) station, Well Street, Exeter, Devon, EX4 6QB
City-centre transport
Getting to St James' Park from Exeter city centre
BusTg001 · 12m
G · 18m · every ~1 min
St James' Park train station facilities and services
St James' Park has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at St James' Park.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at St James' Park: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at St James' Park: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at St James' Park: Staff help available: No, Step free access note: Step Free Category B3 Station - This station has a degree of step free access to the platforms, however the Exeter bound platform cannot be accessed step free and the Exmouth bound platform can be accessed step free but only via a very steep ramp, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Holyhead
More options for your journey from Holyhead to Exeter
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Exeter and Holyhead
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