- 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 London Gatwick Airport to Exeter
Showing times and prices for Jul 19
Cheapest price
$119
Average price
$159
Fastest journey
3 h 54 m
Average duration
4 h 2 m
Trains per day
12
Distance
240 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter will cost around $159 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $119.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter without transferring at least 2 times.
C33162 · W34799 · C480129:26 AM4h06Gatwick Airport (GTW)1:32 PMExeter St Thomas (EXT)$1191One-way2 transfers- C33162 · W34799 · Y802369:26 AM3h55Gatwick Airport (GTW)1:21 PMSt James' Park (SJP)$1191One-way2 transfers
- C33160 · C00167 · Y418697:59 AM4h23Gatwick Airport (GTW)12:22 PMSt James' Park (SJP)$1351One-way2 transfers
- C33160 · C00167 · C480067:59 AM4h33Gatwick Airport (GTW)12:32 PMExeter St Thomas (EXT)$1351One-way2 transfers
- C33160+
L81410 · L78752 · L793417:59 AM5h33Gatwick Airport (GTW)1:32 PMExeter St Thomas (EXT)$1571One-way4 transfers
- C00167 · Y41869+
C82327+
Tube from London Victoria to London Paddington8:28 AM3h54Gatwick Airport (GTW)12:22 PMSt James' Park (SJP)$1931One-way3 transfers - C33162 · W34799 · Y802369:26 AM3h55Gatwick Airport (GTW)1:21 PMSt James' Park (SJP)$1191One-way2 transfers
- C00167 · C48006+Tube from London Victoria to London Paddington+C823278:28 AM4h04Gatwick Airport (GTW)12:32 PMExeter St Thomas (EXT)$1931One-way3 transfers
- C33162 · W34799 · C480129:26 AM4h06Gatwick Airport (GTW)1:32 PMExeter St Thomas (EXT)$1191One-way2 transfers
- C00167 · Y41869+
W45446+Tube from London Bridge to London Paddington8:09 AM4h13Gatwick Airport (GTW)12:22 PMSt James' Park (SJP)$1931One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for London Gatwick Airport to Exeter
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 35m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $25, and a train costs an average of $36.
Distance: 149 miles (240 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$79 Average price | $30 Average price Cheapest | $64 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 5m Average total duration Fastest 3h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 51m Average total duration 5h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter is a bus with an average price of $30 (€25).
This is compared to other travel options from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter:
A bus is $49 (€40) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter costing on average $79 (€65).
The fastest way to travel from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter is by train with an average journey time of 3h 35m.
Other travel options to Exeter take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 21m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between London Gatwick Airport and Exeter including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from London Gatwick Airport 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 $79 (€65) compared to roughly $64 (€52) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-15.43 (€-12.67). The journey takes 3h 35m versus 3h 34m 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
London Gatwick Airport to Exeter train times
The table below shows live departures for London Gatwick Airport to Exeter trains for today, Saturday, July 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C42397 · W34846 · Y80305 | On time 6:29 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h50 | 11:19 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 2 transfers | |
| C82449+L79451+Y80305 | On time 6:43 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h36 | 11:19 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 2 transfers | |
C02745+W34846 · Y80305+ C38577 | On time 6:46 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h33 | 11:19 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 3 transfers | |
| Sunday, July 19 | |||||
| C33160 · C00167 · Y41869 | 7:59 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h23 | 12:22 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 2 transfers | |
| C33160 · C00167 · C48006 | 7:59 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h33 | 12:32 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
| C33160+L81410 · L78752 · L79341 | 7:59 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 5h22 | 1:21 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 4 transfers | |
| C33160+L81410 · L78752 · L79341 | 7:59 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 5h33 | 1:32 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 4 transfers | |
| C00167 · C48006+W45446+Tube from London Bridge to London Paddington | 8:09 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h23 | 12:32 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 3 transfers | |
| C00167 · Y41869+Tube from London Bridge to London Paddington+W45446 | 8:09 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h13 | 12:22 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 3 transfers | |
| C00167 · Y41869+C82327+Tube from London Victoria to London Paddington | 8:28 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 3h54 | 12:22 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 3 transfers | |
| C00167 · C48006+C82327+Tube from London Victoria to London Paddington | 8:28 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h04 | 12:32 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 3 transfers | |
| C33162 · W34799 · C48012 | 9:26 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h06 | 1:32 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
| C33162 · W34799 · Y80236 | 9:26 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 3h55 | 1:21 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 2 transfers | |
| C33162+L81428 · L79351+C48017 | 9:26 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 5h04 | 2:30 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 3 transfers | |
| C33162+L81428 · L79351+Y80243 | 9:26 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h55 | 2:21 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 3 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets London Gatwick Airport to Exeter 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.
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Jul 19
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Why should you book London Gatwick Airport to Exeter trains with Omio?
South Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter.
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 or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from London Gatwick Airport 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 South Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from London Gatwick Airport 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 Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter.
Journey information
Overview: Train from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter run on average 18 times per day, taking around 3h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $36 (€29) but you can travel from only $25 (€20) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 07:16, the last at 18:43. The fastest train covers the 149 miles (240 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 $25 (€20)
Distance 149 miles (240 km) |
Average train duration 3h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $36 (€29) |
Trains per day 18 |
Fastest train 3h 49m |
First train 7:16 AM |
Last train 6:43 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 $25 (€20)
Train companies: South Western Railway, Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter trainsSouth Western Railway, Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between London Gatwick Airport and Exeter from $25 (€20). 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
4h 6m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€29)
South Western Railway frequency
5 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 49m
Cheapest Price
$58 (€48)
Great Western Railway frequency
14 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
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 13m
Cheapest Price
$230 (€189)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
16 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 London Gatwick Airport to Exeter
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London Gatwick Airport 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 London Gatwick Airport to Exeter can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $36 (€29), while the average price is around $79 (€65).
The train from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter takes 3h 49m and runs 18 per day.
The distance by train from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter is 149 miles (240 km).
The first train from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter leaves at 7:16 AM.
The last train from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter leaves at 6:43 PM.
There is no high speed train available from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter.
There is no direct train service currently available from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter.
The cheapest way to get from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter is by bus, with a cost of around $25 (€20).
The train journey from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter is considered scenic as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of Surrey and the rolling hills of Devon, offering views of the English countryside and charming towns along the way.
A day trip from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter is not feasible as the travel time is 3h 49m. Trains run 18 times per day.
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 London Gatwick Airport to Exeter.
Since neither London Gatwick Airport 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from London Gatwick Airport 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.
Most popular train connections from London Gatwick Airport
More options for your journey from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Exeter and London Gatwick Airport
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