- Must visit
Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery
Exeter’s main museum and gallery, with collections on local history, archaeology, natural history and world cultures. A strong first stop for understanding the city.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter
Showing times and prices for Jun 04
Cheapest price
$43
Average price
$80
Fastest journey
3 h 47 m
Average duration
4 h 2 m
Trains per day
11
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 $80 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $43.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter without transferring at least 2 times.
L79384+
Y80277+
C8238712:43 PM4h12Gatwick Airport (GTW)4:55 PMSt James' Park (SJP)$431One-way2 transfers- L79395+Y80282+G263101:02 PM4h47Gatwick Airport (GTW)5:49 PMSt James' Park (SJP)$431One-way2 transfers
- G26310+L79395+C480371:02 PM5h00Gatwick Airport (GTW)6:02 PMExeter St Thomas (EXT)$431One-way2 transfers
- L79384+C48033+C8238712:43 PM4h25Gatwick Airport (GTW)5:08 PMExeter St Thomas (EXT)$431One-way2 transfers
- W34817 · Y80279+G26310+
Tube from London Victoria to London Paddington1:02 PM4h19Gatwick Airport (GTW)5:21 PMSt James' Park (SJP)$781One-way3 transfers
- W34814 · C48030+
W45474+
C3822812:46 PM3h47Gatwick Airport (GTW)4:33 PMExeter St Thomas (EXT)$961One-way3 transfers - W34817 · C48033+Tube from London Bridge to London Paddington+W453721:06 PM4h02Gatwick Airport (GTW)5:08 PMExeter St Thomas (EXT)$781One-way3 transfers
- G15134 · W34814 · C4803012:29 PM4h04Gatwick Airport (GTW)4:33 PMExeter St Thomas (EXT)$1191One-way2 transfers
- G15135 · W34817 · C4803312:59 PM4h09Gatwick Airport (GTW)5:08 PMExeter St Thomas (EXT)$1191One-way2 transfers
- W34814 · Y80277+W45474+C3822812:46 PM4h09Gatwick Airport (GTW)4:55 PMSt James' Park (SJP)$961One-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 |
|---|---|---|
$81 Average price | $31 Average price Cheapest | $65 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 $31 (€25).
This is compared to other travel options from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter:
A bus is $50 (€40) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter costing on average $81 (€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 $81 (€65) compared to roughly $65 (€52) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-15.67 (€-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 tomorrow, Thursday, June 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G15134 · W34814 · C48030 | 12:29 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h04 | 4:33 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
| L79384+Y80277+C82387 | 12:43 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h12 | 4:55 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 2 transfers | |
| L79384+C48033+C82387 | 12:43 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h25 | 5:08 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
| W34814 · Y80277+C38228+W45474 | 12:46 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h09 | 4:55 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 3 transfers | |
| W34814 · C48030+W45474+C38228 | 12:46 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 3h47 | 4:33 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 3 transfers | |
| G15135 · W34817 · C48033 | 12:59 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h09 | 5:08 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
| G15135 · W34817 · Y80279 | 12:59 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h22 | 5:21 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 2 transfers | |
| L79395+Y80282+G26310 | 1:02 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h47 | 5:49 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 2 transfers | |
| L79395+C48037+G26310 | 1:02 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 5h00 | 6:02 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
| W34817 · Y80279+G26310+Tube from London Victoria to London Paddington | 1:02 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h19 | 5:21 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 3 transfers | |
| W34817 · C48033+W45372+Tube from London Bridge to London Paddington | 1:06 PM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h02 | 5:08 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
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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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
$59 (€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
$234 (€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
Bill Douglas Cinema Museum
A specialist museum at the University of Exeter with remarkable collections on the history of cinema, optics and moving images. A local favourite for film and media enthusiasts.
- Recommended
Spacex
An established contemporary visual arts venue in Exeter known for changing exhibitions and experimental programming. Popular with local arts audiences.
- Must visit
Exeter Quayside
A lively waterfront area with historic warehouses, riverside walks and photogenic views. Especially popular for relaxed strolling and social-media-friendly scenery.
- Must visit
Cathedral Green
The open space around Exeter Cathedral, ideal for appreciating the city’s main landmark and surrounding historic streetscape. A classic Exeter viewpoint.
- Recommended
Northernhay Gardens
One of England’s oldest public open spaces, with mature planting, monuments and elevated views near the castle area. A pleasant central retreat.
- Vegetarian
Devon Cream Tea
Freshly baked scones served with strawberry jam and thick Devon clotted cream, traditionally spread jam first in Devon. It is one of the county's most famous treats.
- Vegetarian
Devonshire Splits
Light yeast buns, often served split and filled with jam and clotted cream. A classic West Country tea-time bake associated with Devon.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Devon Blue Cheese
A rich, creamy blue cow's milk cheese made in Devon. It is a notable regional product often served on cheeseboards or in local dishes.
Rendezvous Wine Bar
Well-regarded independent restaurant and wine bar offering refined seasonal cooking and a relaxed, smart atmosphere near the cathedral.
The Conservatory
Long-running independent restaurant in central Exeter known for polished modern British cooking and a cosy, intimate atmosphere.
Harry's Restaurant
Established city-centre favourite serving broad European and British dishes in a lively brasserie setting, popular with both locals and visitors.
Pound Sterling
Generally cheaper than London. Dining and coffee are fairly priced, but central hotels and peak-season stays can raise daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-12 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 50+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is often included only at some restaurants. If not, tip about 10% for good service. Rounding up is fine in taxis. Tipping is not usually expected for pubs or counter service.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Exeter St Davids -> Exeter City Centre
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Bus fares can usually be paid by contactless card on Stagecoach buses, which is often the easiest option for visitors.
- Exeter St Davids is within walking distance of the city centre, so walking is often faster than waiting for a bus or taxi.
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 $81 (€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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from London Gatwick Airport to Exeter
London
Exeter
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:45 - 20:40 Saturday 06:15 - 20:00 Sunday 07:30 - 20:40 Reservations and tickets requiring reservations are sold at the following times only: Weekdays (Mon-Fri) 08:45 - 19:40, Saturday 08:45 - 18:30 Sunday 10:00 - 17:30
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: WHSmith
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 and 5. The National key toilets are operated by a RADAR key. The RADAR key is available from station staff upon request.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The radar key is available from station staff.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Platform 1 and adjacent entrance
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Exeter St Davids
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Front of the station
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Bottom of stairs leading to platform 1.
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Exeter St Thomas
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: To Exeter St Davids: Cowick Street bus stop by shopping precint. To Newton Abbot: Cowick Street bus stop outside the station
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDining
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 07:50 - 18:15 Saturday 07:50 - 18:15 Sunday 09:30 - 16:30
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Taxis
- Taxi: Yes
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 2. The National key toilets are operated by a RADAR key. The RADAR key is available from station staff upon request.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The radar key is available from station staff.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Both platforms
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Exeter Central
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Bus stop at the front of the station on Queens Street
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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