Portsmouth to Exeter train with South Western Railway

Sun, Jun 07
+ Add return
South Western Railway
Great Western Railway
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
South Western Railway
Great Western Railway
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Portsmouth to Exeter

Showing times and prices for Jun 07

Cheapest price

$31

Average price

$48

Fastest journey

4 h 6 m

Average duration

4 h 36 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

172 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Portsmouth to Exeter is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Portsmouth to Exeter will cost around $48 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $31.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Portsmouth for Exeter on Sun, Jun 07, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jun 07 the direct trains cover the 172 km distance in an average of 4 h 36 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 6 m .

On Sun, Jun 07 the slowest trains will take 5 h 7 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.

  • South Western Railway
    8:37 AM4h06
    Portsmouth
    12:43 PMExeter
    $311One-way
    0 transfers
  • South Western Railway
    8:22 AM4h34
    Portsmouth
    12:56 PMExeter
    $571One-way
    0 transfers
  • South Western Railway
    9:14 AM5h07
    Portsmouth
    2:21 PMExeter
    $571One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Portsmouth to Exeter

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Portsmouth to Exeter among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $36. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 0m. 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 $36, and a train costs an average of $31.

Distance: 106 miles (172 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$70

Average price

$69

Average price

Cheapest

$47

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 30m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 26m

Average total duration

6h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 7m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

South Western Railway

Most popular train company

National Express

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 Portsmouth to Exeter is a bus with an average price of $69 (€57).

This is compared to other travel options from Portsmouth to Exeter:

A bus is $0.53 (€0.43) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Portsmouth to Exeter costing on average $70 (€57).

The fastest way to travel from Portsmouth to Exeter is by train with an average journey time of 3h 0m.

Other travel options to Exeter take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 56m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Exeter including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Portsmouth to Exeter among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 7m sooner (3h 0m by train vs 3h 7m by car). Tickets start at around $70 (€57) compared to roughly $47 (€38) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Portsmouth to Exeter train times

The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Exeter trains for today, Saturday, June 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
South Western RailwayL79929 · L79340
On time
8:00 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
4h42
12:42 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayC42257 · V95154 · C48011
On time
8:27 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
4h05
12:32 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
2 transfers
South Western RailwayL79327+Great Western RailwayC42257
Delayed
8:47 AM 8:27 AMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
3h15
11:42 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
1 transfer
South Western RailwayL79327+Great Western RailwayC48011 · C42257
Delayed
8:47 AM 8:27 AMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
4h05
12:32 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
2 transfers
South Western RailwayL79935 · L79350
On time
9:00 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
4h42
1:42 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW34983 · C42217 · C48016
On time
9:27 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
4h11
1:38 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
2 transfers
South Western RailwayL79340+Great Western RailwayW34983 · C48016
Delayed
9:47 AM 9:27 AMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
4h11
1:38 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
2 transfers
South Western RailwayL79340+Great Western RailwayW34983
Delayed
9:47 AM 9:27 AMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
3h15
12:42 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
1 transfer
South Western RailwayL79941 · L79361
On time
10:00 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
4h42
2:42 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayC42260 · V87732 · C48022
On time
10:27 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
4h04
2:31 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT)
2 transfers
South Western RailwayL79350+Great Western RailwayC42260
Delayed
10:47 AM 10:27 AMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
3h15
1:42 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD)
1 transfer
South Western RailwayL79350+Great Western RailwayC42260 · C48022
Delayed
10:47 AM 10:27 AMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
4h04
2:31 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 prices and tickets Portsmouth 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.

Sun
Jun 07
Mon
Jun 08
Tue
Jun 09
Wed
Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11
Fri
Jun 12
Sat
Jun 13

Why should you book Portsmouth to Exeter trains with Omio?

South Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Portsmouth to Exeter.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth to Exeter.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Portsmouth to Exeter.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Portsmouth to Exeter

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Portsmouth to Exeter run on average 20 times per day, taking around 3h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $31 (€25) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 106 miles (172 km) distance in 3h 14m.

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
Distance
106 miles (172 km)
Average train duration
3h 0m
Cheapest ticket price
$31 (€25)
Trains per day
20
Fastest train
3h 14m
First train
12:02 AM
Last train
11:48 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Best time to book
49 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

Train companies: South Western Railway, Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Portsmouth to Exeter trainsSouth Western Railway, Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Portsmouth and Exeter from $31 (€25). 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
3h 14m
Cheapest Price
$31 (€25)
South Western Railway frequency
1 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 40m
Cheapest Price
$106 (€86)
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 9m
Cheapest Price
$164 (€134)
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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Trains from Portsmouth to Exeter

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portsmouth 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Portsmouth to Exeter can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $31 (€25), while the average price is around $70 (€57).
The train from Portsmouth to Exeter takes 3h 14m and runs 20 per day.
The distance by train from Portsmouth to Exeter is 106 miles (172 km).
The first train from Portsmouth to Exeter leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Portsmouth to Exeter leaves at 11:48 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Portsmouth to Exeter.
There is no direct train service currently available from Portsmouth to Exeter.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Portsmouth to Exeter.
The train station in Portsmouth that goes to Exeter is Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS), which connects to Exeter St Davids (EXD).
The cheapest way to get from Portsmouth to Exeter is by train, with a cost of around $31 (€25).
Yes, the Portsmouth to Exeter train offers scenic views, including glimpses of the South Downs, coastal vistas near the English Channel, and picturesque countryside landscapes.
A day trip from Portsmouth to Exeter is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 14m. However, there are 16 train trips 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 Portsmouth to Exeter.
Since neither Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth to Exeter

Portsmouth
Exeter
The major train station for departures in Portsmouth is Portsmouth & Southsea. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Portsmouth & Southsea for your trip from Portsmouth to Exeter.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:40 - 20:30 Saturday 05:40 - 20:30 Sunday 06:40 - 20:40
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
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 all platforms. Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge.
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details
  • Accessible toilets: Yes
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: Yes
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The toilets are located in the Lower Concourse, next to the gateline. The National key toilets are located in the Lower Concourse; these toilets are operated by a radar key. A radar key is available from station staff upon request. A 'National Key Scheme' key [RADAR] can be purchased by contacting the following. Address: 12 City Forum, 250 City Road, London, EC1V 8AF. Tel: 020 7250 3222. Minicom: 020 7250 4119. Fax: 020 7250 0212. Email: [email protected]
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Concourse and car park
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Portsmouth & Southsea
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Station Street bus stop at side of Railway Station near Matalan car park.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:50 - 19:00 Saturday 06:30 - 19:00 Sunday 08:00 - 19:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - Steps or 20m ramp (approx. 1:11 gradient) to main entrance, or steps to side entrance. 32m ramp (gradient up to 1:8) from Wightlink IoW ferry terminal. Level access to all platforms. Stepped footbridge between platforms is also available. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge.
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details
  • Accessible toilets: Yes
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: Yes
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 1. The National key toilets are located on Platform 1; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • National key toilets location: The National key toilets are located on Platform 1; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
  • Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage location: Platform 1 and outside booking hall
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Portsmouth Harbour
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Hard Interchange Stands G, H or J
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:55 - 19:40 Saturday 05:55 - 19:40 Sunday 09:10 - 18:40
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
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 all platforms
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details
  • Accessible toilets: Yes
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: Yes
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The toilets are located in the Booking Hall on Platform 1. The National key toilets are located in the Booking Hall on Platform 1; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Platform 1
  • Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from help point
  • Helpline Contact: 0800 5282100
Public transit options for Fratton
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Goldsmith Avenue (for buses in both directions). Goldsmith Avenue is located on the opposite side of the footbridge from the main entrance/taxi rank/Railway club.

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