- 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 Leicester to Exeter
Showing times and prices for Aug 06
Cheapest price
$125
Average price
$248
Fastest journey
3 h 54 m
Average duration
4 h
Trains per day
17
Distance
269 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Leicester to Exeter is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leicester to Exeter will cost around $248 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $125.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Leicester to Exeter without transferring at least once.
G00956 · W298629:50 AM3h54Leicester station (LEI)1:44 PMExeter St Davids (EXD)$1251One-way1 transfer
W34817 · Y80279+
Tube from London St Pancras International to London Paddington+
W7079312:31 PM4h50Leicester station (LEI)5:21 PMSt James' Park (SJP)$1261One-way3 transfers- G00956 · W29862+C480219:50 AM4h41Leicester station (LEI)2:31 PMExeter St Thomas (EXT)$1491One-way2 transfers
- G00956 · W29862+Y802639:50 AM4h31Leicester station (LEI)2:21 PMSt James' Park (SJP)$1491One-way2 transfers
- G00959 · W29868+C4802510:50 AM4h42Leicester station (LEI)3:32 PMExeter St Thomas (EXT)$2351One-way2 transfers
- G00956 · W298629:50 AM3h54Leicester station (LEI)1:44 PMExeter St Davids (EXD)$1251One-way1 transfer
- G00959 · W2986810:50 AM3h54Leicester station (LEI)2:44 PMExeter St Davids (EXD)$2351One-way1 transfer
- G00960 · W2987311:50 AM3h54Leicester station (LEI)3:44 PMExeter St Davids (EXD)$2351One-way1 transfer
- G14983+C21663+Tube from London St Pancras International to London Paddington10:04 AM4h08Leicester station (LEI)2:12 PMExeter St Davids (EXD)$3781One-way2 transfers
- W34809+W70784+Tube from London St Pancras International to London Paddington11:04 AM4h08Leicester station (LEI)3:12 PMExeter St Davids (EXD)$2541One-way2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leicester to Exeter
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Leicester to Exeter run on average 13 times per day, taking around 3h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $63 but you can travel from only $19 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 22:55. The fastest train covers the 167 miles (269 km) distance in 3h 29m.
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 $19
Distance 167 miles (269 km) |
Average train duration 3h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $63 |
Trains per day 13 |
Fastest train 3h 29m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 10:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $19
Live departures
Leicester to Exeter train times
The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Exeter trains for today, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:50 AM Leicester | 3h54 | 1:44 PM Exeter | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:50 AM Leicester | 3h54 | 3:44 PM Exeter | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Leicester to Exeter trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway or Cross Country offer trains services from Leicester to Exeter.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leicester to Exeter.
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 Great Western Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Leicester 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.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leicester to Exeter.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Exeter.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Leicester to Exeter.
Train companies: CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Cross Country from Leicester to Exeter trainsCrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Cross Country trains will get you between Leicester and Exeter from $19. 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 Duration
3h 29m
Cheapest Price
$63
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
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
4h 8m
Cheapest Price
$125
Great Western Railway frequency
6 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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 19m
Cheapest Price
$307
Cross Country frequency
10 a day
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 Leicester to Exeter
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester 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 Leicester to Exeter can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $63, while the average price is around $129.
The train from Leicester to Exeter takes 3h 29m and runs 13 per day.
The distance by train from Leicester to Exeter is 167 miles (269 km).
The first train from Leicester to Exeter leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Leicester to Exeter leaves at 10:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Leicester to Exeter.
There is no direct train service currently available from Leicester to Exeter.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leicester to Exeter.
The train station in Leicester that goes to Exeter is Leicester station (LEI), which connects to Exeter St Davids (EXD).
The train journey from Leicester to Exeter offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, including views of rolling countryside, quaint villages, and sections along the River Exe as you approach Exeter, providing some scenic elements along the route.
Yes, you can take the train from Leicester to Exeter.
Popular day trips by train from Exeter include Bristol, Plymouth, Barnstaple, Exmouth, Bath.
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 Leicester to Exeter
Most Leicester to Exeter trains use the Leicester to Exeter St Davids station pair, with some services arriving at Exeter St Thomas. Use this guide to compare Leicester and Exeter train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Leicester
Arrival train stations in Exeter
Which Leicester station do trains to Exeter leave from?
Trains from Leicester to Exeter leave from Leicester. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Leicester city centre at Leicester station, London Road, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE2 0QB.
LeicesterLeicester station, London Road, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE2 0QB+44 8457125678
City-centre transport
Getting to Leicester from Leicester city centre
BusX7 · 4m · $2 · every ~3 min
16 · 7m · every ~6 min
Hop · 11m · $2 · every ~14 min
Leicester train station facilities and services
Leicester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Leicester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Leicester. ATMs are available at Leicester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Leicester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 08000 11 33 23, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leicester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leicester: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leicester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A access station. There is step free access to the main entrance and lifts to all platforms. Customers with wheelchairs who require assistance on graduated slopes should press the ticket gate 'assistance' button located at the bottom of the stairs near the self service ticket machines. To ensure availability of staff to assist, it is imperative that customers book assistance in advance. This station has tactile paving at the edge of all platforms and at the bottom of all staircases, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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: Yes.
Which Exeter station do trains from Leicester arrive at?
Trains from Leicester 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.
More options for your journey from Leicester to Exeter
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Exeter and Leicester
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