- 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 Penzance to Exeter
Showing times and prices for Jun 04
Cheapest price
$14
Average price
$24
Fastest journey
2 h 58 m
Average duration
3 h 3 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
157 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Penzance to Exeter is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Penzance to Exeter will cost around $24 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $14.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Penzance for Exeter on Thu, Jun 04, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jun 04 the direct trains cover the 157 km distance in an average of 3 h 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 58 m .
On Thu, Jun 04 the slowest trains will take 3 h 10 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.
10:15 AM3h10Penzance1:25 PMExeter$141One-way0 transfers
8:15 AM2h58Penzance11:13 AMExeter$181One-way0 transfers- 8:10 AM3h02Penzance11:12 AMExeter$411One-way0 transfers
- 8:15 AM2h58Penzance11:13 AMExeter$181One-way0 transfers
- 8:10 AM3h02Penzance11:12 AMExeter$411One-way0 transfers
- 10:15 AM3h10Penzance1:25 PMExeter$141One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Penzance to Exeter
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Penzance to Exeter among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 4m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $9, and a train costs an average of $14.
Distance: 97 miles (157 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$24 Average price | $12 Average price Cheapest | $40 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 34m Average total duration Fastest 3h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 41m Average total duration 4h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 6m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Penzance to Exeter is a bus with an average price of $12 (€10).
This is compared to other travel options from Penzance to Exeter:
A bus is $12 (€9) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Penzance to Exeter costing on average $24 (€19).
The fastest way to travel from Penzance to Exeter is by train with an average journey time of 3h 4m.
Other travel options to Exeter take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 11m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Penzance and Exeter including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Penzance 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 {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Direct services run with Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR).
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Penzance to Exeter train times
The table below shows live departures for Penzance 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:10 AM Penzance | 3h02 | 11:12 AM Exeter | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:15 AM Penzance | 2h58 | 11:13 AM Exeter | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:15 AM Penzance | 3h10 | 1:25 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 Penzance 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.
Thu
Jun 04
Jun 04
Fri
Jun 05
Jun 05
Sat
Jun 06
Jun 06
Sun
Jun 07
Jun 07
Mon
Jun 08
Jun 08
Tue
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Jun 09
Wed
Jun 10
Jun 10
Why should you book Penzance to Exeter trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more offer trains services from Penzance to Exeter.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Penzance to Exeter.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Penzance 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Penzance to Exeter.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Penzance to Exeter.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Penzance to Exeter.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Penzance to Exeter
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Penzance to Exeter run on average 21 times per day, taking around 3h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $14 (€11) but you can travel from only $9 (€7) by bus.
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:10, the last at 21:51. The fastest train covers the 97 miles (157 km) distance in 2h 58m.
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 $9 (€7)
Distance 97 miles (157 km) |
Average train duration 3h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price $14 (€11) |
Trains per day 21 |
Direct trains 6 |
Fastest train 2h 58m |
First train 4:10 AM |
Last train 9:51 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 days |
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 $9 (€7)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Penzance to Exeter trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Penzance and Exeter from $9 (€7). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
2h 58m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€15)
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
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 Duration
3h 10m
Cheapest Price
$14 (€11)
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 50m
Cheapest Price
$171 (€138)
Cross Country frequency
2 a day
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 47m
Cheapest Price
$136 (€110)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
22 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 Penzance to Exeter
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Penzance 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 Penzance to Exeter can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $14 (€11), while the average price is around $24 (€19).
The train from Penzance to Exeter takes 2h 58m and runs 21 per day.
The distance by train from Penzance to Exeter is 97 miles (157 km).
The first train from Penzance to Exeter leaves at 4:10 AM.
The last train from Penzance to Exeter leaves at 9:51 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Penzance to Exeter.
Yes, there is a direct train from Penzance to Exeter. This service operates 6 times per day, provided by Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Penzance to Exeter.
The train station in Penzance that goes to Exeter is Penzance station (PNZ), which connects to Exeter St Davids (EXD).
The cheapest way to get from Penzance to Exeter is by bus, with a cost of around $9 (€7).
Yes, the train journey from Penzance to Exeter is considered scenic, offering views of the Cornish coastline, rolling countryside, and picturesque villages along the route.
A day trip from Penzance to Exeter is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 58m. However, there are 17 train services available per day for this route, covering a distance of 97 miles (157 km).
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 Penzance to Exeter.
Since neither Penzance 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Penzance 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 Penzance to Exeter
Penzance
Exeter
The major train station for departures in Penzance is Penzance. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Penzance for your trip from Penzance to Exeter.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:05 - 20:10 Saturday 06:15 - 18:10 Sunday 08:45 - 17:30
Parking
- Car Park: Winter Prices
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step Free Category A station - This station has step free access to the platforms. 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 can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- 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
WC
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The radar key is available from station staff.
- Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
- Shoreline bed and breakfast by the sea
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Penzance
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: The Bus Station adjacent to the station
The major train station for arrivals in Exeter is Exeter St Davids. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Exeter St Davids for your journey to Exeter from Penzance.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDining
ATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike 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
WifiShoppingParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost 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 Penzance
More options for your journey from Penzance to Exeter
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Exeter and Penzance
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