- 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 Manchester Airport to Exeter
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 10
Cheapest price on Sep 10
$81
Average ticket price on Sep 10
$89
Fastest journey on Sep 10
4 h 43 m
Average journey duration on Sep 10
5 h 14 m
Trains on Sep 10
3
Distance
306 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester 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 Manchester Airport to Exeter will cost around $89 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $81.
Fast trains
On Thu, Sep 10, we found 3 trains from Manchester Airport to Exeter, including 3 direct services.
On Thu, Sep 10 the direct trains cover the 306 km distance in an average of 5 h 14 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 43 m .
On Thu, Sep 10 the slowest trains will take 5 h 41 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.
7:01 AM4h43Manchester Airport11:44 AMExeter$811One-way0 transfers- 8:25 AM5h19Manchester Airport1:44 PMExeter$851One-way0 transfers
9:04 AM5h41Manchester Airport2:45 PMExeter$1011One-way0 transfers
- 7:01 AM4h43Manchester Airport11:44 AMExeter$811One-way0 transfers
- 8:25 AM5h19Manchester Airport1:44 PMExeter$851One-way0 transfers
- 9:04 AM5h41Manchester Airport2:45 PMExeter$1011One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Manchester Airport to Exeter
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Manchester Airport to Exeter among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $58 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 2h 59m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $58, while a train costs an average of $152.
Distance: 190 miles (306 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$152 Average price | $58 Average price Cheapest | $142 Average price | $87 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 17m Average total duration 4h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 7m Average total duration 7h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 59m Average total duration Fastest 59m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Manchester Airport to Exeter is a bus with an average price of $58 (€47).
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester Airport to Exeter:
A bus is $84 (€68) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester Airport to Exeter costing on average $142 (€115).
A bus is $94 (€76) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester Airport to Exeter costing on average $152 (€123).
The fastest way to travel from Manchester Airport to Exeter is by flight with an average journey time of 59m.
Other travel options to Exeter take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 47m.
Bus takes on average 7h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester Airport and Exeter including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester 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 $152 (€123) compared to roughly $87 (€70) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-64.74 (€-52.27). The journey takes 4h 47m versus 3h 52m 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
Manchester Airport to Exeter train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester Airport to Exeter trains for tomorrow, Thursday, September 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:01 AM Manchester Airport | 4h43 | 11:44 AM Exeter | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:25 AM Manchester Airport | 5h19 | 1:44 PM Exeter | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:04 AM Manchester Airport | 5h41 | 2:45 PM Exeter | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester Airport to Exeter by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
Thu
Sep 10
Sep 10
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Wed
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester Airport to Exeter
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester Airport to Exeter run on average 16 times per day, taking around 4h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $85 (€69) but you can travel from only $31 (€25) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 07:01, the last at 07:01. The fastest train covers the 190 miles (306 km) distance in 4h 5m.
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 $31 (€25)
Distance 190 miles (306 km) |
Average train duration 4h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $85 (€69) |
Trains per day 16 |
Fastest train 4h 5m |
First train 7:01 AM |
Last train 7:01 AM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Mon |
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 $31 (€25)
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry from Manchester Airport to Exeter trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry trains will get you between Manchester Airport and Exeter from $31 (€25). 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
4h 31m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$101 (€81)
Transport for Wales frequency
9 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
4h 5m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$85 (€69)
CrossCountry frequency
6 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
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 Manchester Airport to Exeter
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester 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 Manchester Airport to Exeter can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $85 (€69), while the average price is around $152 (€123).
The train from Manchester Airport to Exeter takes 4h 5m and runs 16 per day.
The first train from Manchester Airport to Exeter leaves at 7:01 AM.
The distance by train from Manchester Airport to Exeter is 190 miles (306 km).
The last train from Manchester Airport to Exeter leaves at 7:01 AM.
There is no high speed train available from Manchester Airport to Exeter.
There is no direct train service currently available from Manchester Airport to Exeter.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester Airport to Exeter.
The cheapest way to get from Manchester Airport to Exeter is by bus, with a cost of around $31 (€25).
The train journey from Manchester Airport to Exeter offers a mix of urban and rural views, with scenic countryside landscapes, rolling hills, and glimpses of charming small towns along the way, particularly as you travel through the picturesque areas of Cheshire and Devon.
A day trip from Manchester Airport to Exeter is not feasible since the journey takes 4h 5m. However, there are 21 trains 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 Manchester Airport to Exeter.
Since neither Manchester 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 Manchester 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 Manchester Airport to Exeter
Most Manchester Airport to Exeter trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Exeter St Davids station pair, with some services arriving at Exeter St Thomas. Use this guide to compare Manchester Airport and Exeter train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Manchester
Arrival train stations in Exeter
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.
Exeter CentralExeter Central station, Queen Street, Exeter, Devon, EX4 3SB+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Exeter Central from Exeter city centre
BusH, K, Uni, 4A, 4 · 3m · $2 · every ~27 min
Exeter Central train station facilities and services
Exeter Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, 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 Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Exeter Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Exeter Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Exeter Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter Central: 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.
Most popular train connections from Manchester Airport
More options for your journey from Manchester Airport to Exeter
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Exeter and Manchester Airport
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