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Exeter to Plymouth train ticket prices
£4.98
On Sat 16 May
Exeter to Plymouth train timetable
Travelling from Exeter to Plymouth, the fastest train takes 58m with an average travel time of 59m. 40 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 04:10 and the last at 22:49. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
11:14 Exeter St Davids | 1h 2m, Direct | 12:16 Plymouth | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
11:49 Exeter St Davids | 58m, Direct | 12:47 Plymouth | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
12:15 Exeter St Davids | 59m, Direct | 13:14 Plymouth | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
12:19 Exeter St Davids | 1h 7m, Direct | 13:26 Plymouth | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
12:49 Exeter St Davids | 58m, Direct | 13:47 Plymouth | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
Exeter to Plymouth train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Exeter to Plymouth 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.
CrossCountry vs Great Western Railway: Which Should You Choose?
Travel from Exeter to Plymouth, with a choice of operators. Should you pick CrossCountry or Great Western Railway? This comparison will help you decide.
Train operators | Avg. duration | Departure station | Best for | Feature services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
CrossCountry | 58 mins | Exeter St Davids | Fastest Direct Route, Cheap Advance Fares | Quiet Zone, First Class upgrade |
Great Western Railway | 1h 1m | Exeter St Davids | Frequent Departures, Best First Class Experience | Complimentary food and drink in First Class, reliable Wi-Fi |
Train travel from Exeter to Plymouth
On the direct train from Exeter to Plymouth, follow our local station secrets for an unforgettable journey through beautiful Devon.
Exeter St Davids: Getting to the Platform
Start your journey at Exeter's main intercity rail hub. From Roman walls to a vibrant city centre, Exeter is a delightful city, with excellent connections throughout South West England.
- All roads lead to St Davids: Get to the station on foot from city centre locations like Exeter Quay or Northernhay Gardens. The route to St Davids is well signposted within the final mile.
- Express service: For the quickest access to St Davids, or if you’re coming from further afield, board Stagecoach South West buses to the station. You’ll be dropped off at Isambard Parade, directly outside the station. Not bad!
- Where’s my coffee?: As the second-busiest railway station in Devon, Exeter St Davids has excellent facilities. Before boarding your train to Plymouth, buy a coffee from Costa or Starbucks. If you plan ahead, stop at the independent Glorious Art House on your way, under a mile from the station.
You’ll encounter miles of rural beauty throughout your one-hour trip across Devon.
- Key Landmarks: The best views come in the middle of your journey as you cross through Dartmoor National Park. Look out for Bennett's Cross, Bellever Forest, and Wistman's Wood.
- The View Alert: To enjoy everything Dartmoor has to offer, choose a seat on the Left-Hand Side (facing South).
Arriving at Plymouth
A port city between the rivers Plym and Tamar, Plymouth has a long history and an abundance of sights to explore.
- Out of the station: Leave Plymouth Station at the south side exit for the fastest access to top Plymouth attractions like Smeaton's Tower, Millbay Pier, and The Barbican Plymouth.
- Plymouth Bus: If you’re heading further afield or want a speedier route to the marina, board local transport with Plymouth Bus. Board your bus from immediately outside the station’s exit on North Road East.
Exeter to Plymouth train travel guide
Taking the train from Exeter to Plymouth is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Exeter, you can arrive at Plymouth in just 58m, 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 to Plymouth?
The average ticket fare from Exeter to Plymouth is about £4.98, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.
What is the best way to travel from Exeter to Plymouth by train?
What is the fastest train from Exeter to Plymouth?
The fastest train journey time from Exeter to Plymouth is 58m . 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 to Plymouth?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Exeter to Plymouth. TrainPal Train Journey Planner will assist you in finding the best train route. Enter the origin or destination places and other relevant details, then click "Search" to find the most suitable route.
Is it worth taking a train from Exeter to Plymouth?
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
How do I find Exeter to Plymouth train timetables?
Exeter to Plymouth trains are generally punctual, but delays or disruptions can happen due to weather, strikes, and other factors. With Train Journey Planner, finding a train timetable for your trip is simple. Enter your departure and arrival stations to view a detailed schedule of available trains. Provide your travel details to find the best routes, connections, and train times.
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 to Plymouth trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Exeter to Plymouth 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?
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?
First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific 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 to Plymouth route?
The Exeter to Plymouth route is operated by CrossCountry. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the 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
You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.
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Children
Children under 5 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
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Pets
Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier. Animals are not permitted 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 to Plymouth train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
Your plans have changed?
Your train was disrupted?
* 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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