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London Waterloo to Exeter train ticket prices
€23.45
On Sat 5
London Waterloo to Exeter train timetable
From London Waterloo to Exeter, take the fastest train in 2h 46m, typically 3h 25m. Daily, 27 trains depart from London Waterloo, with the first at 07:10 and the last at 23:39. During Off-Peak times starting at 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter space with fewer people. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. We save you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
10:54 London Waterloo | 2h 59m, 1 change | 13:53 Exeter St Davids | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
11:20 London Waterloo | 3h 37m, Direct | 14:57 Exeter Central | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
17:20 London Waterloo | 3h 37m, Direct | 20:57 Exeter Central | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
17:24 London Waterloo | 2h 49m, 1 change | 20:13 Exeter St Davids | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
17:50 London Waterloo | 3h 43m, 1 change | 21:33 Exeter St Davids | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
London Waterloo to Exeter train tickets and times
Plan your journey from London Waterloo to Exeter 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.
Why book London Waterloo to Exeter trains with TrainPal?
Why book with TrainPal vs Trainline?
Unlike Trainline, TrainPal charges no booking fees on any route. On top of that, TrainPal's Split Ticket feature automatically divides your journey into multiple ticket segments, saving up to 50% compared to buying a single through ticket. Train fares from London Waterloo to Exeter start from just €23.45 on TrainPal.
Is TrainPal cheaper than buying direct?
TrainPal is often cheaper than buying direct. We don't charge any booking fees, and our Split Ticketing technology searches for the lowest fare combination across your entire journey—something train operator websites don't offer. Plus, we compare prices across multiple operators (e.g., South Western Railway, Great Western Railway, London Underground on the London Waterloo to Exeter route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.
London Waterloo to Exeter train travel guide
Taking the train from London Waterloo to Exeter is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from London Waterloo, you can arrive at Exeter in just 2h 46m, 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 London Waterloo to Exeter?
The average ticket fare from London Waterloo to Exeter is about €23.45, 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 London Waterloo to Exeter by train?
What is the fastest train from London Waterloo to Exeter?
The quickest train journey from London Waterloo to Exeter takes 2h 46m . Utilise our Train Journey Planner to locate direct trains, minimise transfers, and compare travel times across various routes. Discover the most efficient way to travel with fewer stops for a smooth and seamless journey.
Are there direct trains from London Waterloo to Exeter?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from London Waterloo to Exeter. 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 London Waterloo to Exeter?
Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.

Check timetables and during the journey
Are London Waterloo to Exeter trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
London Waterloo to Exeter 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?
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 London Waterloo to Exeter trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the London Waterloo to Exeter 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?
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?
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 London Waterloo to Exeter route?
The route from London Waterloo to Exeter is operated by South Western Railway. 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
Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted. We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.
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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
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 London Waterloo to Exeter 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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