- Must visit
Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery
Exeter’s main museum and gallery, known for collections on Devon history, world cultures, fine art, and natural history. A strong first stop for understanding the city.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Exeter
Showing times and prices for Jun 19
Cheapest price
$69
Average price
$77
Fastest journey
1 h 41 m
Average duration
1 h 46 m
Trains per day
12
Distance
196 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Exeter is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Exeter will cost around $77 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $69.
Fast trains
Of the 12 trains that leave Reading for Exeter on Fri, Jun 19, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 19 the direct trains cover the 196 km distance in an average of 1 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 41 m .
On Fri, Jun 19 the slowest trains will take 1 h 58 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.
W348173:01 PM1h58Reading station (RDG)4:59 PMExeter St Davids (EXD)$691One-way0 transfers- W34817 · C480333:01 PM2h07Reading station (RDG)5:08 PMExeter St Thomas (EXT)$691One-way1 transfer
- G149841:01 PM2h07Reading station (RDG)3:08 PMExeter St Davids (EXD)$741One-way0 transfers
- W348203:29 PM1h46Reading station (RDG)5:15 PMExeter St Davids (EXD)$791One-way0 transfers
- G1498312:31 PM1h41Reading station (RDG)2:12 PMExeter St Davids (EXD)$791One-way0 transfers
- G1498312:31 PM1h41Reading station (RDG)2:12 PMExeter St Davids (EXD)$791One-way0 transfers
- W348132:29 PM1h43Reading station (RDG)4:12 PMExeter St Davids (EXD)$791One-way0 transfers
- W348081:29 PM1h43Reading station (RDG)3:12 PMExeter St Davids (EXD)$791One-way0 transfers
- W348203:29 PM1h46Reading station (RDG)5:15 PMExeter St Davids (EXD)$791One-way0 transfers
- W348173:01 PM1h58Reading station (RDG)4:59 PMExeter St Davids (EXD)$691One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Reading to Exeter
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Exeter among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $61. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 55m. 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 train costs an average of $61, and a flight costs an average of $252.
Distance: 121 miles (196 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$74 Average price Cheapest | $91 Average price | $463 Average price | $50 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 25m Average total duration Fastest 1h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 36m Average total duration 4h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 22m Average total duration 6h 22m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Reading to Exeter is a train with an average price of $74 (€61).
This is compared to other travel options from Reading to Exeter:
A train is $16 (€13) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Reading to Exeter costing on average $91 (€74).
A train is $389 (€317) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Reading to Exeter costing on average $463 (€377).
The fastest way to travel from Reading to Exeter is by train with an average journey time of 1h 55m.
Other travel options to Exeter take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 6m.
Flight takes on average 6h 22m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Reading and Exeter including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading 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 57m sooner (1h 55m by train vs 2h 52m by car). Tickets start at around $74 (€61) compared to roughly $50 (€41) 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.
Direct services run with Great Western Railway (GWR).
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
Reading to Exeter train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Exeter trains for today, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:01 AM Reading | 2h06 | 12:07 PM Exeter | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:31 PM Reading | 2h00 | 2:31 PM Exeter | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:01 PM Reading | 2h20 | 3:21 PM Exeter | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:01 PM Reading | 1h58 | 3:59 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 Reading to Exeter by train, bus, or flight
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.
Fri
Jun 19
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Why should you book Reading to Exeter trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Reading to Exeter.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading 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 Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Reading 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Exeter.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Exeter.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Exeter
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Exeter run on average 17 times per day, taking around 1h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $61 (€49) but you can travel from only $19 (€16) by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 121 miles (196 km) distance in 1h 44m.
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 $19 (€16)
Distance 121 miles (196 km) |
Average train duration 1h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $61 (€49) |
Trains per day 17 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 1h 44m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:44 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $19 (€16)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Reading to Exeter trainsGreat Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Reading and Exeter from $19 (€16). 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
1h 44m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€49)
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
1h 35m
Cheapest Price
$172 (€140)
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.
- Recommended
Bill Douglas Cinema Museum
A specialist museum at the University of Exeter with remarkable collections on the history of moving images, cinema, and visual media.
- Recommended
Spacex
Contemporary visual arts gallery in Exeter with changing exhibitions by regional and national artists. A local favorite for independent art programming.
- Must visit
Exeter Quayside
One of the city’s most popular walking areas, combining waterside views, heritage buildings, and a lively atmosphere.
- Must visit
Cathedral Green
Broad open space beside the cathedral, ideal for appreciating Exeter’s historic core and one of the city’s most photographed spots.
- Recommended
Gandy Street
Characterful central lane known for independent shops and medieval atmosphere. Popular with visitors seeking a picturesque old-city feel.
- Vegetarian
Devon Cream Tea
Fresh scones served with clotted cream and strawberry jam, traditionally done the Devon way with cream first. A classic county treat strongly associated with Devon.
- Vegetarian
Devonshire Split
A soft enriched bread roll, often filled with jam and clotted cream. It is a traditional Devon bakery item and a local teatime favourite.
- Vegetarian
Hevva Cake
A traditional West Country fruit cake made with flour, butter, sugar and dried fruit. Though more strongly linked with the wider South West, it is familiar in Devon tearooms and bakeries.
The Conservatory
A long-established independent restaurant in central Exeter known for polished modern British cooking, attentive service and a smart but relaxed atmosphere.
Rendezvous Wine Bar
A well-regarded city-centre restaurant and wine bar serving Mediterranean-influenced dishes, seafood and steaks in an intimate cellar-style setting.
Harry's Restaurant
A busy and established Exeter favourite with a broad menu of comfort food, grills and local staples, popular for its lively and casual atmosphere.
Pound Sterling
Costs are moderate by UK standards. Pubs and casual dining are reasonable, while hotels and fine dining cost more in peak periods.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-30 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included only at some restaurants. If not added, tip about 10% for good service. Round up taxi fares. Tipping is not expected for counter service.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.80
To the city center
Exeter St Davids, Exeter -> Exeter City Centre, Exeter
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Most local buses in Exeter are operated by Stagecoach, and the GBP 2.00 single fare cap is useful for short trips.
- Card and contactless payment are accepted on most Stagecoach buses, and mobile tickets can be bought in the official app.
FAQs: Trains from Reading to Exeter
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading 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 Reading to Exeter can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $61 (€49), while the average price is around $74 (€61).
The train from Reading to Exeter takes 1h 44m and runs 17 per day.
The first train from Reading to Exeter leaves at 12:02 AM.
The distance by train from Reading to Exeter is 121 miles (196 km).
The last train from Reading to Exeter leaves at 11:44 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Reading to Exeter.
Yes, there is a direct train from Reading to Exeter. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway (GWR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Exeter.
The train station in Reading that goes to Exeter is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Exeter St Davids (EXD).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Exeter is by bus, with a cost of around $19 (€16).
The train journey from Reading to Exeter offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque countryside of Berkshire, Wiltshire, and Devon, with highlights including rolling hills, quaint villages, and stretches along the River Exe.
A day trip from Reading to Exeter is feasible with a travel duration of 1h 44m and 16 trains available per day over a distance of 121 miles (196 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 Reading to Exeter.
Since neither Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading to Exeter
Reading
Exeter
The major train station for departures in Reading is Reading. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Reading for your trip from Reading to Exeter.
Amenities at train station
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:15 - 22:45 Saturday 05:30 - 22:45 Sunday 07:15 - 22:45 Please note: Reservations and tickets requiring reservations are sold at the following times only: Mon - Sat 08:00 - 20:00 and Sun 09:00 - 20:00
Parking
- Car Park: Multi Storey Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: platforms can be reached via lift and bridge, ticket office is step free
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible public telephones: Accessible low-level Pay Phone is available at the station main concourse. Please request staff assistance if you need to
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxi are available at the station entrance. please request staff assistance if you need to
- 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 and at the car park
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: Toilets are located on Station Platforms and in The Brunel Arcade building
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Front of station, underground short stay car park and long stay car park
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Reading
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the North side of the station
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotel
Lost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 10:45 Saturday - Sunday Closed
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access note: Step Free Category B3 - This station has a degree of step free access but only to Platform 1 and only if accessed via Tilehurst Road. Otherwise this station can be classified as Category C. 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 available. Please request staff assistance
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Reading West
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Towards Reading: Bus Stop on Oxford Road under Railway Bridge. Heading away from Reading Bus Stop on Oxford Road, outside McDonalds.
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityThe 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 Reading.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike 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
WifiShoppingParkingDining
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost 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 Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Exeter
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Exeter and Reading
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