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Plymouth to Exeter train ticket prices

Travelling from Plymouth to Exeter by train? Find fares from as low as €6.83. 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.
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Plymouth to Exeter train timetable

Travelling from Plymouth to Exeter, the fastest train takes 55m with an average travel time of 58m. 21 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 04:54 and the last at 12:15. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

20:14

Plymouth
58m, Direct

21:12

Exeter St Davids
Great Western Railway
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21:33

Plymouth
1h 11m, Direct

22:44

Exeter St Davids
Great Western Railway
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22:25

Plymouth
1h 8m, Direct

23:33

Exeter St Davids
Great Western Railway
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23:20

Plymouth
1h 3m, Direct

00:23

Exeter St Davids
Great Western Railway
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Plymouth to Exeter train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Plymouth 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.

Price
From €6.83
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
36 miles (58km)
Journey time
55m
First train
04:54
Last train
12:15
Frequency
21

CrossCountry vs Great Western Railway: Which should you choose?

By Daniel Clark | Updated June 9, 2026
On your route from Plymouth to Exeter, choose between direct trains run by CrossCountry and Great Western Railway (GWR). Will you opt for speed and affordable advance fares or the best First Class experience?

Train operators

Avg. duration

Departure station

Best for

Feature services

CrossCountry

58 mins

Plymouth

Fastest Direct Route, Cheap Advance Fares

Quiet Zone, First Class upgrade

Great Western Railway

1h 1m

Plymouth

Frequent Departures, Best First Class Experience

Complimentary food and drink in First Class, reliable Wi-Fi

Train travel from Plymouth to Exeter

Take the train from Plymouth to Exeter for fast connections and beautiful views of sunny Devon. With our local station secrets, your trip will be even better!

Plymouth: Getting to the Platform

Start out in a scenic south coast city with a Royal Citadel, green parks, and plentiful cultural attractions.

  • Which way to N Rd E?: Plymouth Station is situated on North Road East towards the north of the city centre. If you’re walking there, you’ll experience some of Plymouth’s top historical sights, including Smeaton's Tower and The Barbican Plymouth.
  • Plymouth Bus: Get to the station faster with the city’s reliable local bus network operated by Plymouth Bus. Hassle-free travel comes from this fully integrated travel system, with a bus drop-off point immediately outside the station’s main entrance.
  • Accessible travel: Toilets are available at the station, with accessible facilities open for passengers who need them. Find toilets on platforms 4 and 7.
Onboard trains from Plymouth to Exeter

On the one-hour journey across Devon, speed northwards through natural scenery that will delight even the most avowed city dweller.

  • Key Landmarks: Natural landmarks like Ugborough Beacon and Longtimber Woods will fill your journey with beauty at every turn. Crossing through Dartmoor National Park has to be the highlight, with sites like Bellever Forest and Wistman's Wood offering an exciting view from your window.
  • The View Alert: To enjoy the best views of Dartmoor National Park, choose a seat on the Left-Hand Side (facing North).

Arriving at Exeter St Davids

Will you walk the Roman walls? Or bask in the architectural beauty of this iconic city? Decisions, decisions. Whatever you choose to do, here’s how you’ll be greeted at the second-busiest railway station in Devon… and how to board public transport to continue your journey.

  • Top facilities: Grab a coffee on the way out of the station from Costa or Starbucks. Or, if you can wait, stop at an independent cafe like Glorious Art House in Exeter under a mile from the station.
  • Express service: From St Davids, travel around the city and further afield in Devon on Stagecoach South West buses. Board from Isambard Parade, directly outside the station.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Why book Plymouth to Exeter trains with TrainPal?

  • Why book with TrainPal vs Trainline?

    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 Plymouth to Exeter start from just €6.83 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., Great Western Railway, CrossCountry on the Plymouth to Exeter route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.

Plymouth to Exeter train travel guide

Travelling by train from Plymouth to Exeter is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Plymouth, you can reach Exeter in just 55m, 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 Plymouth to Exeter?

The average fare from Plymouth to Exeter is approximately €6.83, 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 Plymouth to Exeter?

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 Plymouth to Exeter.

What is the fastest train from Plymouth to Exeter?

The fastest train journey time from Plymouth to Exeter is 55m. 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 Plymouth to Exeter?

No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Plymouth to Exeter. 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 Plymouth to Exeter?

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

While Plymouth to Exeter trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from Plymouth to Exeter is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover 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 Plymouth to Exeter trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Plymouth 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?

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, in the UK, students and seniors have access to various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard allows students to save up to 1/3 on most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy comparable savings. Both types of Railcards are available for purchase online or at train stations and are valid for one year, making them a valuable option for frequent travellers.

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?

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 Plymouth to Exeter route?

The train from Plymouth to Exeter is operated by Great Western Railway. 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

    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

    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 Plymouth to Exeter 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?

To change your journey or request a refund, please visit our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page for step-by-step instructions.

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.