- 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.
Cheapest price
$31
Average price
$77
Fastest journey
3 h 15 m
Average duration
3 h 39 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
172 km
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 $77 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $31.
Of the 8 trains that leave Portsmouth for Exeter on Sat, Jun 20, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 172 km distance in an average of 3 h 39 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 15 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 4 h 8 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.










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)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$70 Average price | $69 Average price Cheapest | $46 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 |
![]() 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Portsmouth to Exeter:
A bus is $0.52 (€0.43) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Portsmouth to Exeter costing on average $70 (€57).
Other travel options to Exeter take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 56m.
You'll arrive about 7m sooner (3h 0m by train vs 3h 7m by car). Tickets start at around $70 (€57) compared to roughly $46 (€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.
The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Exeter trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
L79958 · L79395 | On time 1:00 PM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 4h44 | 5:44 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 1 transfer | |
L79384+ G15014 | Delayed 1:47 PM 1:27 PMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 3h15 | 4:42 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 1 transfer | |
G15014 · W34817 · C48033 | On time 1:27 PM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 3h41 | 5:08 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
G15014+ L79384+ Y80277 | On time 1:27 PM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 3h28 | 4:55 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 2 transfers | |
G15014+ L79384+ C48033 | On time 1:27 PM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 3h41 | 5:08 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
L79964 · L79406 | On time 2:00 PM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 4h49 | 6:49 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 1 transfer | |
G15016+ L79395+ Y80282 | On time 2:27 PM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 3h22 | 5:49 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 2 transfers | |
L79395+ G15016 | Delayed 2:47 PM 2:27 PMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 3h17 | 5:44 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 1 transfer | |
L79395+ C48037 · G15016 | Delayed 2:47 PM 2:27 PMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 3h35 | 6:02 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
L79970 · L79417 | On time 3:00 PM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 4h43 | 7:43 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 1 transfer | |
G15018+ L79406+ G15234 | On time 3:27 PM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 3h26 | 6:53 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 2 transfers | |
L79406+ G15018 | Delayed 3:47 PM 3:27 PMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 3h22 | 6:49 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 1 transfer | |
L79406+ G15018 · G15470 | Delayed 3:47 PM 3:27 PMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 3h38 | 7:05 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 2 transfers | |
L79417+ C48048 · G15020+ G26233_C82437 | Delayed 4:54 PM 3:59 PMPortsmouth Harbour (PMH) | 4h34 | 8:33 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 3 transfers | |
L79976 · L79417+ G15020 · C48048 | On time 4:00 PM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 4h33 | 8:33 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 4 transfers | |
G15020+ L79417+ Y80292 | On time 4:24 PM Portsmouth Harbour (PMH) | 3h29 | 7:53 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
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.
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 |
Discover the best of Exeter — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Exeter trip today.
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.
A specialist museum at the University of Exeter with remarkable collections on the history of moving images, cinema, and visual media.
Contemporary visual arts gallery in Exeter with changing exhibitions by regional and national artists. A local favorite for independent art programming.
One of the city’s most popular walking areas, combining waterside views, heritage buildings, and a lively atmosphere.
Broad open space beside the cathedral, ideal for appreciating Exeter’s historic core and one of the city’s most photographed spots.
Characterful central lane known for independent shops and medieval atmosphere. Popular with visitors seeking a picturesque old-city feel.
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.
A soft enriched bread roll, often filled with jam and clotted cream. It is a traditional Devon bakery item and a local teatime favourite.
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.
A long-established independent restaurant in central Exeter known for polished modern British cooking, attentive service and a smart but relaxed atmosphere.
A well-regarded city-centre restaurant and wine bar serving Mediterranean-influenced dishes, seafood and steaks in an intimate cellar-style setting.
A busy and established Exeter favourite with a broad menu of comfort food, grills and local staples, popular for its lively and casual atmosphere.
Costs are moderate by UK standards. Pubs and casual dining are reasonable, while hotels and fine dining cost more in peak periods.
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.
Official public transport app
Exeter St Davids, Exeter -> Exeter City Centre, 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.

Most Portsmouth to Exeter trains use the Portsmouth & Southsea to Exeter St Davids station pair, with some services arriving at Exeter St Thomas. Use this guide to compare Portsmouth and Exeter train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Portsmouth & Southsea has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth & Southsea. ATMs are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Parking, WC.
Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth & Southsea: 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.
Portsmouth Harbour is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:
Portsmouth Harbour has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Portsmouth Harbour.
Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth Harbour. ATMs are available at Portsmouth Harbour.
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth Harbour.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Portsmouth Harbour: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Portsmouth Harbour: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth Harbour: 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.
Fratton is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:
Fratton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Fratton.
Wi-Fi is available at Fratton.
Ticket office support is available at Fratton. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0800 5282100.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Fratton: Parking, WC.
Available at Fratton: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Fratton: 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.
Exeter St Davids is 1 km from Exeter city centre. Public transport options include:
Exeter St Davids has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Exeter St Davids.
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter St Davids. ATMs are available at Exeter St Davids.
Ticket office support is available at Exeter St Davids.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Exeter St Davids: Parking, WC.
Available at Exeter St Davids: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter St Davids: 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.
Exeter St Thomas is 1 km from Exeter city centre. Public transport options include:
Exeter St Thomas has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Exeter St Thomas.
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter St Thomas.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Exeter St Thomas: Parking.
Available at Exeter St Thomas: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter St Thomas: 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.
Exeter Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Exeter Central.
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter Central.
Ticket office support is available at Exeter Central.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Exeter Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Exeter Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter Central: 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.
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