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Exeter Central to London Waterloo train ticket prices
€21.75
On Mon 11 May
Exeter Central to London Waterloo train timetable
Journey from Exeter Central to London Waterloo on the fastest train in 3h 24m, usually 3h 46m. Every day, 39 trains leave from Exeter Central, starting at 00:18 and ending at 21:30. During Off-Peak Times from 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter and less crowded journey. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with us.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
08:28 Exeter Central | 4h 25m, 2 change | 12:53 London Waterloo | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
09:24 Exeter Central | 3h 41m, 1 change | 13:05 London Waterloo | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
09:30 Exeter Central | 4h 23m, 2 change | 13:53 London Waterloo | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
09:32 Exeter Central | 3h 46m, 1 change | 13:18 London Waterloo | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
10:13 Exeter Central | 3h 37m, 2 change | 13:50 London Waterloo | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
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.
South Western Railway: Exeter Central to London Waterloo trains
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.
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.
Main stops
Arriving at London Waterloo
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
- 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.
Exeter Central to London Waterloo train travel guide
Taking the train from Exeter Central to London Waterloo is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Exeter Central, you can arrive at London Waterloo in just 3h 24m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.
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 €21.75, 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.
How do I 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 24m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.
Are there direct trains from Exeter Central to London Waterloo?
No, there are no direct trains from Exeter Central to London Waterloo. However, you can still find the best train options using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to see all available train services and plan your trip
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?
You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.
Check timetables and during the journey
Are Exeter Central to London Waterloo trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
While Exeter Central to London Waterloo trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from Exeter Central to London Waterloo is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.
Do Exeter Central to London Waterloo trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Exeter Central to London Waterloo are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company
How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?
Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.
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
Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?
Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.
Which train companies operate the Exeter Central to London Waterloo route?
The route from Exeter Central to London Waterloo is operated by Southeastern. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
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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.
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Children
Discounts are available for young travellers based on age: Travellers under 5 usually travel free, children aged 5–15 get a 50% discount, and 16 to 17-year-olds can use a 16-17 Saver Railcard to get 50% off.
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Pets
You are welcome to bring up to 2 pets with you at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead and other animals in a suitable carrier. Please note that for the comfort of all passengers, pets are not allowed on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
How to buy cheap Exeter Central to London Waterloo train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
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* 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.
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