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Exeter Central to London Waterloo train ticket prices

Travelling from Exeter Central to London Waterloo by train? Find fares from as low as €22.02. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest

€22.02󰄽

On Sun 07 Jun

  • €49.91󰄽
    Sat06 Jun
  • Sun07 Jun
  • €22.02󰄽
    Mon08 Jun
  • €22.02󰄽
    Tue09 Jun
  • €45.04󰄽
    Wed10 Jun
  • €35.67󰄽
    Thu11 Jun
  • €49.42󰄽
    Fri12 Jun

Exeter Central to London Waterloo train timetable

Travelling from Exeter Central to London Waterloo, the fastest train takes 3h 25m with an average travel time of 3h 51m. With 44 daily trains, the first departs at 00:47 and the last at 20:40. Off-Peak hours begin at 09:30 on weekdays, and all-day Off-Peak on weekends and bank holidays. Keep informed of live train status, times, delays, and cancellations with us.

DepartsArrivesOperator

09:15

Exeter Central
3h 56m, 2 change

13:11

London Waterloo
Great Western Railway
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09:30

Exeter Central
3h 50m, Direct

13:20

London Waterloo
South Western Railway
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09:54

Exeter Central
3h 41m, 1 change

13:35

London Waterloo
Great Western Railway
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10:14

Exeter Central
3h 57m, 2 change

14:11

London Waterloo
Great Western Railway
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10:30

Exeter Central
3h 50m, Direct

14:20

London Waterloo
South Western Railway
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Exeter Central to London Waterloo train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Exeter Central to London Waterloo with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.

Price
From €22.02
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
158 miles (254km)
Journey time
3h 25m
First train
00:47
Last train
20:40
Frequency
44

South Western Railway: Exeter Central to London Waterloo trains

By Jay Harlow | Updated May 20, 2026

The direct train from Exeter Central to London Waterloo takes around 3 hours 30 minutes. South Western Railway runs this service and there are hourly departures throughout the day. Along the way, you'll enjoy views of the Devon countryside, historic Salisbury with its famous cathedral spire, and the New Forest's pleasant woodland.

South Western Railway runs trains across southern England, connecting London with Portsmouth, Southampton, Bournemouth and Exeter. They're the main operator for commuter services through southwest London and longer-distance trains to the south coast.

Departing from Exeter Central

As the name suggests, Exeter Central station is located in the centre of town and within walking distance of the high street. If you're coming from the university or St David's area, you can catch a bus or hop on a local train.

South Western Railway and Great Western Railway are the two operators at Exeter Central. This is the city's smaller station, with services operating mainly to local stations like Exmouth and Paignton. Exeter St David's is one stop away and has trains to other parts of the UK.

Main stops

The main stops from Exeter Central to London Waterloo are Salisbury, Basingstoke, Woking and Clapham Junction.

Arriving at London Waterloo

Once you arrive at London Waterloo, getting to other parts of the city is a breeze. The station has direct access to the Waterloo & City, Northern, Jubilee and Bakerloo lines of the Underground, and there are countless rail services to towns and cities across Surrey, Hampshire and beyond. Waterloo East is next door - trains depart from here into Kent.

Some of the city's most popular attractions are just a short walk away. You're minutes from the South Bank, where you'll find the Royal Festival Hall and the London Eye. Cross the bridge for Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and even Buckingham Palace.

South Western Railway train classes

South Western Railway offers two classes on the Exeter to London route. Free Wi-Fi is available in both classes.
  • Standard Class: Has a 2+2 layout on most trains with comfortable seating and decent legroom. Many seats have plugs and charging points, and you'll have free Wi-Fi throughout your journey.
  • First Class: Includes wider seats with extra legroom in a different configuration to other South Western Railway routes. You'll still enjoy the comfortable seating and space to stretch out, though.

South Western Railway train travel advice

  • Luggage: Bring what you can comfortably carry and what fits in the overhead racks or luggage areas. Keep bags out of aisles and doorways, and make sure you can see them during the journey.
  • Bicycles: You must book a bike space at least 24 hours before travelling on this route. You can't bring bikes on trains arriving at London Waterloo between 07:15–10:00 Monday to Friday. There are also morning restrictions in place for Clapham Junction.
  • Children: Kids under 5 travel free and children aged 5–15 get half-price tickets. Consider getting a Friends & Family Railcard – adults save a third on off-peak services.
  • Pets: You can bring up to 2 pets for free as long as they don't take up a seat. Dogs need to be on a lead, and small animals must be in carriers.
  • Passenger Assistance: Book help in advance online or through the Passenger Assistance app if you need assistance boarding or moving around the train. 
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Exeter Central to London Waterloo train travel guide

The train journey from Exeter Central to London Waterloo combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Exeter Central, you can get to London Waterloo in just 3h 25m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Exeter Central to London Waterloo?

The average fare from Exeter Central to London Waterloo is approximately €22.02, but the final price fluctuates. The actual cost depends on your travel dates, how far in advance you book, and your ticket's flexibility. To see the current price for your journey, please search with your specific dates.

What is the best way to travel from Exeter Central to London Waterloo by train?

Utilise the TrainPal app or website to its fullest potential. Our Train Journey Planner is a top-notch online tool for planning your trips. Just enter your departure and arrival cities or stations. Then, review timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and check for food supplies or other amenities. Find the best train route from Exeter Central to London Waterloo.

What is the fastest train from Exeter Central to London Waterloo?

The fastest train journey time from Exeter Central to London Waterloo is 3h 25m. Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.

Are there direct trains from Exeter Central to London Waterloo?

No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Exeter Central to London Waterloo. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.

Is it worth taking a train from Exeter Central to London Waterloo?

Yes, the train is always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.

How far in advance can I book my train ticket?

To get the best price on UK train tickets, it is essential to book as early as you can. Train operators generally release their cheapest Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of the travel date, making early booking the most effective way to secure a lower fare.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

How do I find Exeter Central to London Waterloo train timetables?

Exeter Central to London Waterloo trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.

How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?

Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.

Do Exeter Central to London Waterloo trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Exeter Central to London Waterloo route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.

How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?

Transferring between train stations in the UK can be effortless with some planning. If your travel requires a transfer, review your ticket and journey details for specific transfer instructions. Major stations typically feature clear signage and helpful staff. Additionally, TrainPal Train Journey Planner offers comprehensive transfer details.

What is the difference between Standard and First Class?

While Standard Class offers a good travel experience, First Class provides an upgrade in comfort and service. This typically includes enhanced amenities like complimentary food and drinks, though the specific offerings depend on the train operator.

Other things you might be interested

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors have access to various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard allows students to save up to 1/3 on most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy comparable savings. Both types of Railcards are available for purchase online or at train stations and are valid for one year, making them a valuable option for frequent travellers.

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance Tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.

How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.

Which train companies operate the Exeter Central to London Waterloo route?

The train from Exeter Central to London Waterloo is operated by Southeastern. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search results.

Essential onboard rules and facilities

  • Luggage

    Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.

  • Bicycle

    A free reservation is required for bikes on most journeys due to limited space. While standard bicycles and folding bikes are widely permitted, some operators have provisions for e-bikes and tandems. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bike trailers are not allowed. As policies vary, it is essential to consult your specific train operator's website for their definitive cycle rules before you travel.

  • Children

    Children under 5 typically travel for free. A 50% discount applies to children aged 5 to 15. Additionally, those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for a 50% discount with a 16-17 Saver Railcard.

  • Pets

    Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • Passenger assistance

    For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.

How to buy cheap Exeter Central to London Waterloo train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.

Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.
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Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

For step-by-step guidance on amending your journey or applying for a refund, please access our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

If your journey was affected by a delay, cancellation, or strike, please visit our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page. There, you will find live service information and instructions on how to claim Delay Repay compensation.

* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.