- 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.
Cheapest price
$84
Average price
$84
Fastest journey
4 h 6 m
Average duration
4 h 16 m
Trains per day
22
Distance
319 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester 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 to Exeter will cost around $84 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $84.
Of the 22 trains that leave Manchester for Exeter on Mon, Jul 27, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jul 27 the direct trains cover the 319 km distance in an average of 4 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 6 m .
On Mon, Jul 27 the slowest trains will take 4 h 19 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.
G01005 · G01140
G01013 · W29868+
C48025
G01009 · W29862
G01138+
C48015
G01138
G01150
G01027 · G01153
G01005 · G01140
G01009 · W29862
G01022 · G01148Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Manchester 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 flight which can get you there in 56m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a flight costs an average of $74.
Distance: 198 miles (319 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$84 Average price | $29 Average price Cheapest | $121 Average price | $71 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 9m Average total duration 4h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 56m Average total duration 6h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 56m Average total duration Fastest 56m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 26m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg 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 Manchester to Exeter:
A bus is $54 (€54) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Exeter costing on average $84 (€84).
A bus is $91 (€91) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester to Exeter costing on average $121 (€121).
Other travel options to Exeter take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 39m.
Bus takes on average 6h 26m.
Tickets start at around $84 (€84) compared to roughly $71 (€71) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-12.97 (€-12.97). The journey takes 4h 39m versus 4h 26m 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.
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Exeter trains for tomorrow, Monday, July 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G01138 | On time 8:03 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h22 | 12:25 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01138+ C48015 | On time 8:03 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 5h28 | 1:31 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
G01005 · G01140 | 8:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h19 | 12:44 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 1 transfer | |
G01005 · G01140+ C48015 | 8:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 5h06 | 1:31 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
G01009 · W29862 | 9:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h19 | 1:44 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 1 transfer | |
G01009 · W29862+ C48021 | 9:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 5h06 | 2:31 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
G01013 · W29868 | 10:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h19 | 2:44 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 1 transfer | |
G01013 · W29868+ C48025 | 10:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 5h07 | 3:32 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
G01018 · W29873 | 11:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h19 | 3:44 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 1 transfer | |
G01018 · W29873+ C48028 | 11:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h35 | 4:00 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
G01022 · G01148 | 12:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h19 | 4:44 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 1 transfer | |
G01022 · G01148+ C48033 | 12:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h43 | 5:08 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
G01024 · W29884 | 1:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h21 | 5:46 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 1 transfer | |
G01024 · W29884+ C48037 | 1:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h37 | 6:02 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
G01150 | On time 2:03 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h06 | 6:09 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01150+ C48039 | On time 2:03 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h30 | 6:33 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 1 transfer | |
G01027 · G01153 | 2:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h18 | 6:43 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 1 transfer | |
G01027 · G01153+ G15471 | 2:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h40 | 7:05 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
G01032 · G01154 | 3:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h25 | 7:50 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 1 transfer | |
G01032 · G01154+ C48048 | 3:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 5h08 | 8:33 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
G01035 · G01161_G66477 | 4:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h22 | 8:47 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 1 transfer | |
G01035 · G01161_G66477+ C01620 | 4:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h36 | 9:01 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
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 Manchester to Exeter run on average 17 times per day, taking around 4h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 (€29) but you can travel from only $18 (€18) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:42, the last at 23:09. The fastest train covers the 198 miles (319 km) distance in 4h 21m.
Distance 198 miles (319 km) |
Average train duration 4h 39m |
Cheapest ticket price $29 (€29) |
Trains per day 17 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 4h 21m |
First train 12:42 AM |
Last train 11:09 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 42 days |
Discover the best of Exeter — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Exeter trip today.
Excellent city museum and gallery with archaeology, natural history, and world cultures; the best all-round museum in Exeter.
Interactive museum inside a working paper mill where visitors learn traditional papermaking and local industrial heritage.
Small independent museum in a Tudor merchant’s house, showing Topsham’s river trade, local stories, and period interiors.
Medieval city wall segment and gardens offering one of Exeter’s best walks, with lawns, ruins, and broad urban views.
Historic quay lined with warehouses, canal heritage, walks, and waterside activity; one of Exeter’s most characterful areas.
Attractive urban park beside the cathedral, ideal for relaxing and appreciating surrounding historic buildings in the city centre.
A rich Devon cream made from slowly heated milk. It is a county staple, famously served on scones in a Devon cream tea.
Traditional Devon cream tea pairs scones with jam and clotted cream, with cream spread before jam in the local style.
A hearty baked pudding of layers of potato, onion, and lamb or beef. It is a long-standing Devon farmhouse dish.
Fine dining restaurant known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service in central Exeter.
Popular modern eatery with seasonal small plates, brunch, and a lively casual atmosphere near the city centre.
Historic quayside pub serving local ales and British classics in a characterful former warehouse by the water.
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are mid-priced, buses are reasonable, and attractions are often low-cost versus larger UK tourist cities.
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add 10%. Cafes: tipping is optional, small change appreciated.
Official public transport app
Exeter St Davids -> Exeter Central Station
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester 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.

Most Manchester 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 and Exeter train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Manchester Piccadilly has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Burger King, Caffè Nero, Carluccio’s, Hotel Chocolat, Starbucks, The Pasty Shop, Costa Coffee, Pret a Manger, Upper Crust, McDonald's, & more
Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi. ATMs are there are ATM machines on the main concourse, Platform 10 and on the mezzanine level.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30, Sun: 07:00 - 22:30. Information desks are located near the Fairfield Street entrance on the mezzanine level.
Luggage storage is operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Piccadilly: There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly, Premier Inn Manchester City, Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly.
Manchester Airport is 13 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
Manchester Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Airport.
Wi-Fi is available at Manchester Airport. ATMs are available at Manchester Airport.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Airport. Information desks are information available from staff: ,Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 107 2149, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Available at Manchester Airport: Parking, WC.
Available at Manchester Airport: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Airport: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: re Step free access is provided from the Ground Transport Interchange to all platforms via lifts or ramps. This station is staffed for all services. This station is Category A. Station staff can provide assistance from Meeting Point 1 (adjacent to the Station Booking Office) and throughout the railway station, and with boarding and alighting the train. Customers requiring assistance should make themselves known to station staff no less than 20 minutes prior to the departure time of their train. Customers requiring assistance to access other services or to connect with terminals should request this from their airline or Manchester Airport Group. Assistance can be requested in advance by contacting the TransPennine Express Assisted Travel Team on 0800 107 2149 (18001 prefix for TextRelay). Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible public telephones: In the station cafe on platforms 2 and 3, 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.
Manchester Oxford Road has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Oxford Road.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Oxford Road.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Parking, WC.
Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Oxford Road: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B Station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station - There are two lifts at the Piccadilly end of platform 4 and 2/3 which connect the concourse area platform 4 and 5 with 2/3. Note: there is no lift access to platform 1 at all, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Exeter St Davids is 1 km from Exeter city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options are available at Exeter St Davids.
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter St Davids. ATMs are available at Exeter St Davids.
Ticket office support is available at Exeter St Davids.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Exeter St Davids: Parking, WC.
Available at Exeter St Davids: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
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 Thomas is 1 km from Exeter city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options are available at Exeter St Thomas.
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter St Thomas.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Exeter St Thomas: Parking.
Available at Exeter St Thomas: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
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 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 options are available at Exeter Central.
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter Central.
Ticket office support is available at Exeter Central.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Exeter Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Exeter Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
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.
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