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Exeter Central to London Waterloo train ticket prices
€22.55
On Sun 16 Aug
Exeter Central to London Waterloo train timetable
Travelling from Exeter Central to London Waterloo, the fastest train takes 3h 3m with an average travel time of 3h 36m. With 42 daily trains, the first departs at 00:47 and the last at 23:04. 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.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
23:11 Exeter Central | 9h 38m, 1 change | 08:49 London Waterloo | South 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
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 3m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.
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 €22.55, 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 3m . 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, 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?
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
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?
Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed 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?
Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by 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 train from Exeter Central to London Waterloo is operated by CrossCountry. 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
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Luggage
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar 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
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.
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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
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
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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