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Plymouth to Exeter train ticket prices
€4.95
On Tue 21 Apr
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 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
16:15 Plymouth | 57m, Direct | 17:12 Exeter St Davids | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
16:27 Plymouth | 58m, Direct | 17:25 Exeter St Davids | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
16:50 Plymouth | 1h, Direct | 17:50 Exeter St Davids | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
17:27 Plymouth | 58m, Direct | 18:25 Exeter St Davids | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
17:52 Plymouth | 1h 5m, Direct | 18:57 Exeter St Davids | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
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.
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
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
How much does it cost for a train from Plymouth to Exeter?
Ticket prices from Plymouth to Exeter average around €4.95, 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.
How do I 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 . 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 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 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?
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
How do I find Plymouth to Exeter train timetables?
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?
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?
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
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?
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 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
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
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.
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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
Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
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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