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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.

DepartsArrivesOperator

17:17

Exeter St Davids
1h, Direct

18:17

Plymouth
Great Western Railway
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17:49

Exeter St Davids
58m, Direct

18:47

Plymouth
CrossCountry
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18:20

Exeter St Davids
1h, Direct

19:20

Plymouth
Great Western Railway
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18:49

Exeter St Davids
58m, Direct

19:47

Plymouth
CrossCountry
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19:12

Exeter St Davids
1h 3m, Direct

20:15

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 €4.96
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
36 miles (58km)
Journey time
58m
First train
04:10
Last train
22:49
Frequency
40

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.
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

Travelling by train from Exeter to Plymouth is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Exeter, you can reach Plymouth in just 58m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Exeter to Plymouth?

Ticket prices from Exeter to Plymouth average around €4.96, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.

What is the best way to travel from Exeter to Plymouth by train?

Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare Exeter to Plymouth train prices for the best deals and book in advance for discounts. The TrainPal app offers real-time updates and ticket booking options. Explore the TrainPal app and start planning your journey!

What is the fastest train from Exeter to Plymouth?

The fastest train journey time from Exeter to Plymouth is 58m. 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 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

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?

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?

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. 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, 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 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

    Each passenger is permitted to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage at no extra cost. This can include a combination of items such as suitcases, backpacks, and satchels.

  • 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

    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.

  • 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.

  • Passenger assistance

    All operators offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities or additional needs. This should be booked in advance to guarantee 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.
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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?

For information on claiming Delay Repay compensation due to a delayed, cancelled, or strike-affected service, consult our delays and disruptions page or our UK rail strike page. These pages also provide live service updates.

* 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.