Southampton to Exeter train with South Western Railway

Sun, Jun 21
+ 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 Southampton to Exeter

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$24

Average price

$29

Fastest journey

4 h 6 m

Average duration

4 h 16 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

151 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Southampton to Exeter will cost around $29 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $24.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Southampton for Exeter on Sun, Jun 21, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 151 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 Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 4 h 25 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
    8:26 AM4h06
    Southampton
    12:32 PMExeter
    $241One-way
    0 transfers
  • South Western Railway
    9:07 AM4h25
    Southampton
    1:32 PMExeter
    $341One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Southampton to Exeter

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Exeter among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 18m. 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 train costs an average of $24, and a bus costs an average of $62.

Distance: 93 miles (151 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$60

Average price

Cheapest

$82

Average price

$39

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 48m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 1m

Average total duration

4h 31m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 41m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 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 Southampton to Exeter is a train with an average price of $60 (€49).

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

A train is $22 (€18) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Southampton to Exeter costing on average $82 (€67).

The fastest way to travel from Southampton to Exeter is by train with an average journey time of 2h 18m.

Other travel options to Exeter take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 31m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Exeter including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton 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 23m sooner (2h 18m by train vs 2h 41m by car). Tickets start at around $60 (€49) compared to roughly $39 (€32) 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

Southampton to Exeter train times

The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Exeter trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
South Western Railway8:26 AM Southampton
4h06
12:32 PM Exeter0 transfersDirect
South Western Railway9:07 AM Southampton
4h25
1:32 PM Exeter0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Exeter by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Southampton to Exeter trains with Omio?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Southampton to Exeter

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Southampton to Exeter run on average 21 times per day, taking around 2h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $24 (€19) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 93 miles (151 km) distance in 2h 27m.

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
93 miles (151 km)
Average train duration
2h 18m
Cheapest ticket price
$24 (€19)
Trains per day
21
Fastest train
2h 27m
First train
12:02 AM
Last train
11:48 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
7 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 Southampton to Exeter trainsSouth Western Railway, Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Southampton and Exeter from $24 (€19). 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
2h 27m
Cheapest Price
$24 (€19)
South Western Railway frequency
8 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
2h 42m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€23)
Great Western Railway frequency
13 a day
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
2h 18m
Cheapest Price
$144 (€118)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
12 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, known for collections on Devon history, world cultures, fine art, and natural history. 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 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.

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.

FAQs: Trains from Southampton to Exeter

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton 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 Southampton to Exeter can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $24 (€19), while the average price is around $60 (€49).
The train from Southampton to Exeter takes 2h 27m and runs 21 per day.
The first train from Southampton to Exeter leaves at 12:02 AM.
The distance by train from Southampton to Exeter is 93 miles (151 km).
The last train from Southampton to Exeter leaves at 11:48 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Southampton to Exeter.
There is no direct train service currently available from Southampton to Exeter.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Southampton to Exeter.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Exeter is Southampton Central (SOU), which connects to Exeter St Davids (EXD).
The cheapest way to get from Southampton to Exeter is by train, with a cost of around $24 (€19).
The train journey from Southampton to Exeter offers scenic views, including picturesque countryside landscapes, charming coastal views, and glimpses of rolling hills along the way.
A day trip from Southampton to Exeter is not feasible, as the journey takes 2h 27m and covers 93 miles (151 km). However, there are 19 train services available 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 Southampton to Exeter.
Since neither Southampton 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 Southampton 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 Southampton to Exeter

Most Southampton to Exeter trains use the Southampton Central to Exeter St Davids station pair, with some services arriving at Exeter St Thomas. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Exeter train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Southampton
Arrival train stations in Exeter

Which Southampton station do trains to Exeter leave from?

Trains from Southampton to Exeter leave from Southampton Central. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Southampton city centre at Southampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL.
Southampton CentralSouthampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL+44 345 600 0650WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Southampton Central from Southampton city centre

BusX4, X5 · 5m · $2 · every ~20 min

Southampton Central train station facilities and services

Southampton Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Southampton Central.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Central. ATMs are available at Southampton Central.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Southampton Central.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Southampton Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Southampton Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Central: 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 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: Yes.

Southampton Airport ParkwaySouthampton Airport Parkway station, Wide Lane, Southampton, Hampshire, SO18 2HW+44 345 600 0650WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Southampton Airport Parkway from Southampton city centre

Southampton Airport Parkway is 5 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainSalisbury - Romsey, Weymouth - London Waterloo, Bournemouth - Winchester, Poole - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - London Waterloo, Weymouth - Woking, Bournemouth - Basingstoke, Poole - Winchester, Southampton Central - Basingstoke, Bournemouth - London Waterloo, Poole - Eastleigh, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Romsey - Romsey, Southampton Central - Woking, Salisbury - Salisbury, Salisbury - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Romsey · 10m · $4 · every ~8 min
BusU1a, U1e · 34m · $2 · every ~21 min
U1a, U1e · 40m · $2 · every ~37 min

Southampton Airport Parkway train station facilities and services

Southampton Airport Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Airport Parkway. ATMs are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Southampton Airport Parkway.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Airport Parkway: 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.

St DenysSt Denys station, Osborne Road South, Portswood, Hampshire, SO17 2EZWifiParkingDiningLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to St Denys from Southampton city centre

St Denys is 2 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainSouthampton Central - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - Portsmouth & Southsea, Salisbury - Romsey, Romsey - Romsey, Salisbury - Salisbury, Bournemouth - Basingstoke, Southampton Central - Basingstoke, Bournemouth - Winchester, Southampton Central - Portsmouth Harbour, Southampton Central - Woking, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Salisbury - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Romsey · 5m · $1 · every ~5 min
Bus20 · 22m · $2 · every ~12 min

St Denys train station facilities and services

St Denys has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at St Denys.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at St Denys.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at St Denys.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at St Denys: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at St Denys: Bike Parking.

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