- Must visit
Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery
Exeter’s main museum and gallery, covering local history, archaeology, world cultures, and fine art in a landmark Victorian building.
Cheapest price
$64
Average price
$111
Fastest journey
2 h
Average duration
2 h 6 m
Trains per day
95
Distance
253 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from London 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 to Exeter will cost around $111 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $64.
Of the 95 trains that leave London for Exeter on Thu, May 28, 38 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, May 28 the direct trains cover the 253 km distance in an average of 2 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h .
On Thu, May 28 the slowest trains will take 2 h 9 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
L79384
L79384+
C48033
L79384+
Y80277
L79372
L79395
W34791
W34782
G14983
W34814
W34809Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from London to Exeter among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 8m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a flight costs an average of $211.
Distance: 157 miles (253 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$72 Average price | $28 Average price Cheapest | $471 Average price | $81 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 38m Average total duration Fastest 3h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 40m Average total duration 4h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 54m Average total duration 6h 54m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from London to Exeter:
A bus is $44 (€36) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from London to Exeter costing on average $72 (€58).
A bus is $443 (€357) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from London to Exeter costing on average $471 (€380).
Other travel options to Exeter take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 10m.
Flight takes on average 6h 54m.
The journey is about 36m faster (3h 8m by train vs 3h 44m by car) and roughly $8 (€7) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($72 (€58) vs $81 (€65)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Great Western Railway, South Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR).
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
The table below shows live departures for London to Exeter trains for today, Wednesday, May 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
L79450+ Y80302 | On time 7:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h29 | 10:49 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
L79450 | On time 7:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h24 | 10:44 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L79450+ C48054 | On time 7:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h45 | 11:05 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
G14988 · C48054 | On time 8:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 3h02 | 11:05 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
G14988 · Y80302 | On time 8:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h46 | 10:49 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
G14988 | 8:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h26 | 10:29 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L79464 | Delayed 7:38 PM 8:20 PMLondon Waterloo (WAT) | 3h45 | 12:05 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34848 · Y80304 | On time 9:04 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h42 | 11:46 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
W34848 | On time 9:04 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h28 | 11:32 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34771 | On time 11:45 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 4h10 | 3:55 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G14977 · Y41870 | 6:00 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 3h22 | 9:22 AM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
G14977 | 6:00 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h44 | 8:44 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34780 · C47995 | 7:02 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h33 | 9:35 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
W34780 | 7:02 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h25 | 9:27 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L79315+ C48004 | 7:10 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 4h22 | 11:32 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
L79315 | 7:10 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h33 | 10:43 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L79315+ Y80244 | 7:10 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 4h11 | 11:21 AM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
W34782 · C48000 | 8:03 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h30 | 10:33 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
W34782 | 8:03 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h05 | 10:08 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L79329+ C48010 | 8:20 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 4h12 | 12:32 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
L79329 | 8:20 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h23 | 11:43 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G14989 · C48004 | 9:03 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h29 | 11:32 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
G14989 | 9:03 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h10 | 11:13 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L79342+ C48015 | 9:20 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 4h11 | 1:31 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
L79342 | 9:20 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h22 | 12:42 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34788 | 9:34 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h20 | 11:54 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34791 · C48010 | 10:03 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h29 | 12:32 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
W34791 | 10:03 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h00 | 12:03 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L79352 | 10:20 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h22 | 1:42 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L79352+ C48021 | 10:20 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 4h11 | 2:31 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
G14979 | 10:36 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h31 | 1:07 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34797 · C48015 | 11:03 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h28 | 1:31 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
W34797 | 11:03 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h10 | 1:13 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L79363+ C48025 | 11:20 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 4h12 | 3:32 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
L79363 | 11:20 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h22 | 2:42 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G14983 | 12:05 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h07 | 2:12 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G14983 · C48021 | 12:05 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h26 | 2:31 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
L79372+ C48028 | 12:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h40 | 4:00 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
L79372+ Y80274 | 12:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 4h02 | 4:22 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
L79372+ Y80272 · C48030 | 12:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 4h00 | 4:20 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 2 transfers | |
L79372 | 12:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h23 | 3:43 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G14984 | 12:35 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h33 | 3:08 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G14984 · Y80269 | 12:35 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h46 | 3:21 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
W34809 · Y80272 · C48030 | 1:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 3h17 | 4:20 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 2 transfers | |
W34809 | 1:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h09 | 3:12 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34809 · Y80274 | 1:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 3h19 | 4:22 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
W34809 · C48025 | 1:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h29 | 3:32 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
L79384 | 1:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h22 | 4:42 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L79384+ C48033 | 1:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h48 | 5:08 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
L79384+ Y80277 | 1:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h35 | 4:55 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
W34814 · C48030 | 2:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h30 | 4:33 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
W34814 | 2:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h09 | 4:12 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34814 · Y80277 | 2:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h52 | 4:55 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
L79395 | 2:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h24 | 5:44 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L79395+ C48037 | 2:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h42 | 6:02 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
L79395+ Y80282 | 2:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h29 | 5:49 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
W34817 · C48033 | 2:36 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h32 | 5:08 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
W34817 | 2:36 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h23 | 4:59 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34817 · Y80279 | 2:36 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h45 | 5:21 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
W34819 · C48035 | 3:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h31 | 5:34 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
W34819 · Y80282 | 3:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h46 | 5:49 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
W34819 | 3:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h12 | 5:15 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L79406+ G15471 | 3:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h45 | 7:05 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
L79406 | 3:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h29 | 6:49 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L79406+ G15234 | 3:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h33 | 6:53 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
G14965 · G15233+ G01150 | 3:30 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h54 | 6:24 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 2 transfers | |
G14965+ G01150 | 3:30 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h39 | 6:09 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 1 transfer | |
W34823 · G15234 | 4:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h50 | 6:53 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
W34823 · C48039 | 4:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h30 | 6:33 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
W34823 | 4:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h12 | 6:15 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L79417+ C48048 | 4:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 4h13 | 8:33 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
L79417+ Y80292 | 4:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h33 | 7:53 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
L79417 | 4:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h23 | 7:43 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34827 | 4:36 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h27 | 7:03 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34827 · Y80290 | 4:36 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h44 | 7:20 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
W34830 · C48044 | 5:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h31 | 7:34 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
W34830 · Y80292 | 5:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h50 | 7:53 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
W34830 | 5:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h12 | 7:15 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L79428+ Y80296 | 5:23 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h26 | 8:49 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
L79428+ C01620 | 5:23 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h38 | 9:01 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
L79428 | 5:23 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h19 | 8:42 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G14985 · Y80294 | 5:36 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h45 | 8:21 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
G14985 | 5:36 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h29 | 8:05 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34836 · Y80296 | 6:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h46 | 8:49 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
W34836 | 6:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h09 | 8:12 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34836 · C48048 | 6:03 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h30 | 8:33 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
L79438 | 6:23 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h20 | 9:43 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L79438+ Y80300 | 6:23 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h35 | 9:58 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
L79438+ C48052 | 6:23 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 3h41 | 10:04 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
G14986 | 6:36 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h33 | 9:09 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34842 · C48052 | 7:04 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 3h00 | 10:04 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
W34842 · Y80298 · C48052 | 7:04 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h47 | 9:51 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 2 transfers | |
W34842 · Y80300 | 7:04 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h54 | 9:58 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 1 transfer | |
W34842 | 7:04 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h10 | 9:14 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, and flight 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.
Trains from London to Exeter run on average 42 times per day, taking around 3h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $34 (€28) but you can travel from only $18 (€14) by bus.
There are 17 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 157 miles (253 km) distance in 2h 32m.
Distance 157 miles (253 km) |
Average train duration 3h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price $34 (€28) |
Trains per day 42 |
Direct trains 17 |
Fastest train 2h 32m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 56 days |
Discover the best of Exeter — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Exeter trip today.
Exeter’s main museum and gallery, covering local history, archaeology, world cultures, and fine art in a landmark Victorian building.
Specialist museum at the University of Exeter with important collections on cinema, moving image, and optical entertainment history.
Displays historic ecclesiastical objects and changing exhibitions connected to the cathedral’s long history and artistic heritage.
One of the city’s most popular walking areas, known for canal views, heritage warehouses, and relaxed waterside atmosphere.
Iconic open space in front of Exeter Cathedral, ideal for photos and a classic place to experience the city’s historic core.
Historic city-center gardens with mature trees, monuments, and castle views, popular for short walks and scenic breaks.
Fresh scones served with clotted cream and strawberry jam, a classic Devon ritual traditionally assembled cream first. It is one of the county's best-known treats.
Locally reared lamb from the nearby moorlands, often roasted or served as cutlets. It is prized in Devon for its rich flavor and strong regional farming heritage.
Traditional cider made from local apples in Devon and Somerset. Dry, cloudy farmhouse styles are especially associated with the region's rural drinking culture.
Established independent restaurant in central Exeter known for polished modern British cooking, tasting menus, and a relaxed fine-dining atmosphere.
Well-known intimate bistro and wine bar offering seasonal European cooking and strong service. Popular for date nights and special occasions.
Long-running Exeter favorite serving modern European dishes, steaks, seafood, and cocktails in a stylish brasserie setting near the city center.
Moderate by UK standards. Meals and coffee are manageable, but hotels and central dining cost more in peak periods.
Service is often included or optional. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Round up taxis. Tipping in cafes, pubs, and for takeaway is not usually expected.
Official public transport app
Exeter St Davids -> Exeter City Centre
The train connection between London and Exeter is well-served by several providers, including South Western Railway, Great Western Railway, and Cross Country. With frequent services throughout the day, travelers can enjoy a comfortable journey that typically takes around 2 to 3 hours. Whether you're heading for a weekend getaway or exploring the beautiful Devon countryside, these trains offer convenient options to suit your schedule.
The train connection from London to Exeter offers a direct service with a duration of 2 hours and 7 minutes. There are approximately 25 connections available each day, providing ample options for travelers. The main departure stations in London include Clapham Junction, London Waterloo, and London Paddington, while the arrival stations in Exeter consist of Exeter Central, Pinhoe, and Exeter St Davids.
The first daily train journey from London to Exeter departs at 07:00, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the beautiful landscapes of Devon. The last train leaves Exeter at 23:45, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy a full day in this charming city before returning.
The cheapest ticket price for a train from London to Exeter is €27, while the average ticket price tends to be around €62.
Exeter Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, dates back to the 12th century and showcases intricate stone carvings that tell stories of faith and history. Its significance lies not only in its architectural beauty but also as a center for worship and community gatherings over the centuries. One unique feature is the remarkable vaulted ceiling known as the "Devon Cathedral," which creates an awe-inspiring atmosphere inside this sacred space.
The Royal Albert Memorial Museum stands out as Exeter's cultural gem, opened in 1868 to commemorate Prince Albert’s contributions to education and arts. This museum holds significant collections ranging from natural history to fine art, reflecting both local heritage and global cultures. A highlight is its striking Victorian architecture combined with modern exhibits that engage visitors through interactive displays.
Rougemont Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval life; built in the late 11th century by William I after his conquest of England, it served both defensive purposes and royal residence. The castle's historical importance is underscored by its role during various conflicts throughout English history, including civil wars where it was besieged multiple times. Unique features include remnants of ancient walls still standing strong today alongside beautiful gardens that invite you to explore while soaking up panoramic views of Exeter below.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London 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.

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