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Plymouth to Exeter train timetable
The journey from Plymouth to Exeter on the fastest train in 55m, usually 58m. Each day, 45 trains leave from Plymouth, starting at 04:54 and ending at 23:55. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
18:48 Plymouth | 1h 1m, Direct | 19:49 Exeter St Davids | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
19:49 Plymouth | 1h 6m, Direct | 20:55 Exeter St Davids | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
20:08 Plymouth | 55m, Direct | 21:03 Exeter St Davids | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
21:25 Plymouth | 1h 12m, Direct | 22:37 Exeter St Davids | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
22:23 Plymouth | 1h 5m, Direct | 23:28 Exeter St Davids | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
Plymouth to Exeter train tickets and times
CrossCountry vs Great Western Railway: Which should you choose?
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.
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.
Plymouth to Exeter train travel guide
Taking the train from Plymouth to Exeter is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Plymouth, you can arrive at Exeter in just 55m, 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 Plymouth to Exeter?
The average ticket fare from Plymouth to Exeter is about £4.10, 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 Plymouth to Exeter by train?
What is the fastest train from Plymouth to Exeter?
The quickest train journey from Plymouth to Exeter takes 55m . 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 Plymouth to Exeter?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Plymouth 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 Plymouth 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 Plymouth to Exeter trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Plymouth 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 Plymouth to Exeter trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Plymouth to Exeter 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?
Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.
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
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 Plymouth to Exeter route?
The route from Plymouth to Exeter is operated by CrossCountry. 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
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.
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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.
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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 Plymouth 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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