- 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 York to Exeter
Showing times and prices for Jun 07
Cheapest price
$65
Average price
$133
Fastest journey
4 h 55 m
Average duration
5 h 14 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
396 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from York to Exeter is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from York to Exeter will cost around $133 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $65.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave York 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 396 km distance in an average of 5 h 14 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 55 m .
On Sun, Jun 07 the slowest trains will take 5 h 34 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.
9:34 AM5h13York2:47 PMExeter$651One-way0 transfers- 8:15 AM5h34York1:49 PMExeter$1301One-way0 transfers
- 8:55 AM4h55York1:50 PMExeter$2031One-way0 transfers
- 8:55 AM4h55York1:50 PMExeter$2031One-way0 transfers
- 9:34 AM5h13York2:47 PMExeter$651One-way0 transfers
- 8:15 AM5h34York1:49 PMExeter$1301One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for York to Exeter
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from York to Exeter among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $27. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 51m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $27, and a train costs an average of $65.
Distance: 246 miles (396 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$130 Average price | $44 Average price Cheapest | $103 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 21m Average total duration Fastest 4h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 56m Average total duration 8h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 10m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.0kg 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 York to Exeter is a bus with an average price of $44 (€36).
This is compared to other travel options from York to Exeter:
A bus is $86 (€70) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from York to Exeter costing on average $130 (€106).
The fastest way to travel from York to Exeter is by train with an average journey time of 4h 51m.
Other travel options to Exeter take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 26m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between York and Exeter including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from York 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 19m sooner (4h 51m by train vs 5h 10m by car). Tickets start at around $130 (€106) compared to roughly $103 (€84) 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 Cross Country.
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.
Compare prices and tickets York 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.
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Jun 07
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Why should you book York to Exeter trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway, London North Eastern Railway, Cross Country and more offer trains services from York to Exeter.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from York to Exeter.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway, London North Eastern Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from York 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from York 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, London North Eastern Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from York to Exeter.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from York to Exeter.
Journey information
Overview: Train from York to Exeter
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from York to Exeter run on average 18 times per day, taking around 4h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $65 (€53) but you can travel from only $27 (€22) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 246 miles (396 km) distance in 4h 55m.
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 $27 (€22)
Distance 246 miles (396 km) |
Average train duration 4h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $65 (€53) |
Trains per day 18 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 4h 55m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:48 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 21 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 $27 (€22)
Train companies: CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, London North Eastern Railway, Cross Country from York to Exeter trainsCrossCountry, Great Western Railway, London North Eastern Railway, Cross Country trains will get you between York and Exeter from $27 (€22). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
4h 55m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€53)
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
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
4h 55m
Cheapest Price
$159 (€130)
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
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 1m
Cheapest Price
$202 (€164)
London North Eastern Railway frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 33m
Cheapest Price
$421 (€343)
Cross Country 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.
- 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 York to Exeter
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from York 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 York to Exeter can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $65 (€53), while the average price is around $130 (€106).
The train from York to Exeter takes 4h 55m and runs 18 per day.
The distance by train from York to Exeter is 246 miles (396 km).
The first train from York to Exeter leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from York to Exeter leaves at 11:48 PM.
There is no high speed train available from York to Exeter.
Yes, there is a direct train from York to Exeter. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from York to Exeter.
The train station in York that goes to Exeter is York station (YRK), which connects to Exeter St Davids (EXD).
The cheapest way to get from York to Exeter is by bus, with a cost of around $27 (€22).
The train journey from York to Exeter offers a scenic experience, passing through a variety of landscapes including the rolling hills of the Yorkshire countryside, picturesque towns, and the scenic views of the Somerset and Devon regions.
A day trip from York to Exeter is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 55m. There are 17 trains per day covering the 246 miles (396 km) distance.
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 York to Exeter.
Since neither York 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 York 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 York to Exeter
York
Exeter
The major train station for departures in York is York. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at York for your trip from York to Exeter.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:00 - 20:00 Saturday 06:00 - 20:00 Sunday 08:00 - 19:00 For Advance Purchases, the opening hours are: Mon - Fri 08:00 until 19:00. Sat 08:00 until 18:00. Sun 09:00 until 18:00
Parking
- Car Park: Station Short Stay Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible taxis: No advance booking is required but it will reduce the waiting time for a wheelchair access Taxi
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible machines are available on the main concourse
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The Ladies toilets are located in the Main Concourse and in the Waiting Room between Platforms 7 and 9. The Gents toilet is adjacent to Platform 2 and between Platforms 8 and 9. The National key toilets are adjacent to Platform 2 and between Platforms 8 and 9; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key. A RADAR key is available from station staff.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National key toilets are adjacent to Platform 2 and between Platforms 8 and 9; these toilets are operated by a radar key. A radar key is available from station staff.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: This station has heated waiting rooms available. Seating is available at an accessible height in the waiting room and on platforms
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Within station, within car park, and next to the ticket office
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for York
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at Bus Stand E outside the Principal Hotel
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 York.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost 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
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 York
More options for your journey from York to Exeter
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Exeter and York
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