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Exeter to Plymouth train ticket prices

Travelling from Exeter to Plymouth by train? Find fares from as low as €6.26. 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

€6.26󰄽

On Thu 02 Jul

  • Thu02 Jul
  • €6.26󰄽
    Fri03 Jul
  • €6.26󰄽
    Sat04 Jul
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    Sun05 Jul
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    Mon06 Jul
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    Tue07 Jul
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    Wed08 Jul

Exeter to Plymouth train timetable

Travelling from Exeter to Plymouth, the fastest train takes 52m with an average travel time of 1h. 47 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 04:37 and the last at 23:34. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

13:49

Exeter St Davids
58m, Direct

14:47

Plymouth
CrossCountry
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14:03

Exeter St Davids
52m, Direct

14:55

Plymouth
Great Western Railway
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14:14

Exeter St Davids
59m, Direct

15:13

Plymouth
Great Western Railway
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14:50

Exeter St Davids
57m, Direct

15:47

Plymouth
CrossCountry
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15:13

Exeter St Davids
1h, Direct

16:13

Plymouth
Great Western Railway
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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.

Price
From €6.26
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
36 miles (58km)
Journey time
52m
First train
04:37
Last train
23:34
Frequency
47

CrossCountry vs Great Western Railway: Which Should You Choose?

By Daniel Clark | Updated June 9, 2026

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.
Onboard trains from Exeter to Plymouth

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.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

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 52m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.

Planning and booking

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 €6.26, 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.

How do I find the best train route from Exeter to Plymouth?

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 to Plymouth.

What is the fastest train from Exeter to Plymouth?

The fastest train journey time from Exeter to Plymouth is 52m . 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, there are no direct trains from Exeter to Plymouth. 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 to Plymouth?

Yes, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.

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

Check timetables and during the journey

Are Exeter to Plymouth trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

Exeter to Plymouth 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?

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 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

Other things you might be interested

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

Yes. Our Railcards offer discounts on UK train tickets. Students can use the 16-17 Saver or 16-25 Railcard for up to 1/3 off most fares. Seniors aged 60 and over can use the Senior Railcard for 1/3 off. Railcards can be purchased online with a choice of one-year or three-year validity. The more you travel, the more you save.

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, the refund and exchange policies for train tickets vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. Advance Tickets are usually non-refundable but can sometimes be exchanged for a fee. Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets offer more generous refund and exchange options. Always check the terms and conditions of your ticket or visit UK train ticket types for specific details.

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

Get easy and quick access to live updates and notifications via the TrainPal app. If your phone is enabled to receive messages from us, you'll receive notifications about train cancellations on your screen as soon as you pick up your phone

Which train companies operate the Exeter to Plymouth route?

The train from Exeter to Plymouth 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

  • Luggage

    You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar 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 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.

  • 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 to Plymouth 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?

To claim compensation for a delay (Delay Repay): If your train was delayed, cancelled, or impacted by a strike, you can find live service updates and find out how to claim on our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page.

* 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.