Cheap Train Tickets to Exeter

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Devon, Exeter stands as a vibrant and historic city that seamlessly blends its rich heritage with contemporary charm. With a history spanning over two millennia, Exeter boasts an enchanting tapestry of architectural wonders, cultural treasures, and scenic delights awaiting exploration. From its iconic cathedral, which dominates the skyline with its Gothic grandeur, to its ancient city walls that whisper tales of times gone by, Exeter exudes an undeniable allure that captivates visitors from far and wide.

Image credit: Nick Hawkes | Unsplash

Exeter, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, is a destination worth exploring. Whether you're a local commuter or a traveler looking to visit this charming city, finding cheap train tickets can make your journey more affordable and enjoyable. Using Trainsplit's unique journey planner and booking cheap train tickets can make your journey to Exeter even more budget-friendly.

The Trainsplit app makes it easy to find cheaper alternative journeys through split ticketing.

The app is available on both iOS and Android devices. Just search for "Trainsplit" in your app store and download the app today.

Journey times to Exeter

The journey time to Exeter varies depending on your departure point. On average, trains from London Paddington to Exeter take around 2 hours and 15 minutes. From Bristol, the journey typically takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Be sure to check the specific timetable for your chosen route.

Several train companies operate services to Exeter, including:

Great Western Railway (GWR): GWR operates services from London Paddington, Bristol, and other major cities.
South Western Railway (SWR): SWR operates services from London Waterloo to Exeter.
CrossCountry: CrossCountry provides services connecting Exeter with cities across the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, and Edinburgh.

By using Trainsplits journey planner and our tips and trinkets you can secure affordable train tickets to Exeter and enjoy your journey without breaking the bank. Plan ahead, explore your options, and embark on your adventure to this captivating city with ease and savings in mind.

Getting Around Exeter

Walking is undoubtedly one of the best ways to experience the essence of Exeter. The city's compact size makes it highly pedestrian-friendly, with most attractions within easy walking distance of each other. Wander through the charming cobbled streets of the Cathedral Close, where you'll discover Exeter Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in England. Explore the Quayside area along the River Exe, lined with quaint shops, cafes, and historic warehouses. Stroll along the ancient city walls for panoramic views of the cityscape and tranquil gardens. With hidden gems waiting around every corner, walking allows you to immerse yourself fully in Exeter's unique atmosphere.

For longer journeys or when your feet need a rest, Exeter offers a reliable public transport network. Buses operated by Stagecoach and other companies serve the city and its surrounding areas, providing convenient connections to popular destinations such as the university campuses, shopping centers, and nearby towns and villages. The Exeter St David's railway station, located near the city center, offers frequent train services to destinations across the region and beyond, including London, Bristol, and Cornwall. Additionally, Exeter is served by a network of cycling routes, making it easy to explore the city on two wheels for those seeking a more active and eco-friendly way to get around.

Whether you choose to meander through the streets on foot, hop on a bus, or catch a train, getting around Exeter is a breeze, allowing you to uncover its hidden gems, soak up its rich history, and experience the vibrant culture that makes this city truly special. So lace up your walking shoes, grab a map, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Exeter.

Cheap Train Tickets to Exeter

Image credit: Anthony Hyson | Unsplash

Some great things to do and explore while you're in Exeter

Nestled in the heart of Devon, Exeter beckons visitors with its blend of rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or foodie, this charming city offers something for everyone.

Dominating the city skyline with its majestic towers and intricate Gothic architecture, Exeter Cathedral is a sight to behold. Step inside to marvel at the stunning vaulted ceilings, intricate stained glass windows, and the longest uninterrupted medieval stone vault in the world. Take a guided tour to learn about the cathedral's fascinating history and discover hidden treasures, including the 12th-century astronomical clock and the beautifully preserved Chapter House.

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Exeter at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum. Housed in a stunning Victorian building, the museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts spanning natural history, archaeology, and fine art. Explore exhibits ranging from Egyptian mummies and Roman coins to contemporary art installations. With interactive displays, family-friendly activities, and rotating exhibitions, this museum offers something for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Exeter Quayside, where historic warehouses have been transformed into vibrant shops, cafes, and restaurants. Admire the tranquil waters of the River Exe as you watch boats bobbing in the marina. Browse the independent boutiques for unique souvenirs, sample local delicacies at the food market, or simply soak up the atmosphere while sipping a drink at one of the waterside pubs.

Cheap Train Tickets to Exeter

Image credit: Spencer Eccles | Unsplash

Delve beneath the streets of Exeter to explore the city's hidden history in the Historic Underground Passages. Built in the 14th century to supply fresh water to the city, these tunnels offer a fascinating glimpse into Exeter's past. Join a guided tour to navigate the narrow passages, hear tales of medieval life, and learn about the engineering marvels that enabled their construction. A visit to the Underground Passages is a unique and memorable experience for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

Situated on Exeter’s historic Quay, the Quayside Distillery is a perfect venue, they offer tours, where you can learn about the history of gin production and modern distilling methods. You can sample the spirits while you learn about there different botanicals and different serving combinations. You will even be able to create your own bottle of Gin from a selection of botanics at the Gin School.

With its wealth of attractions, from historic landmarks to natural beauty spots, Exeter offers a memorable experience for visitors seeking to uncover the treasures of this captivating city. Whether you're exploring its iconic cathedral, delving into its rich history, or simply enjoying its scenic surroundings, Exeter invites you to discover the essence of Devonshire charm.

Cheap Train Tickets to Exeter

Image credit: Spencer Eccles | Unsplash

Places to eat in Exeter for all budgets

Fine Dining

The Restaurant at the Salutation Hotel - 68 Fore Street, Topsham, Exeter, EX3 0HL

Located inside this former 1720s coaching inn, Dinner takes place in the intimate dining room, while lunch and afternoon tea wis set in the historic courtyard. For evening dinner you can choose from the tasting menu or there seasonally-themed a la carte menu.

Lympstone Manor - Courtlands Lane, Lympstone, Exmouth, EX8 3NZ

Nestled amidst scenic countryside, Lympstone Manor is a luxurious dining destination that combines gastronomic delights with breathtaking views. Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Michael Caines, the restaurant offers a seasonal tasting menu featuring creative dishes inspired by the abundance of local produce. From hand-dived scallops to aged Exmoor beef, each course is a culinary masterpiece that celebrates the flavors of Devon.

Mid Range Dining

The Fat Pig Exeter - 2 John Street, Exeter, EX1 1BL

Tucked away in the heart of Exeter's city centre, The Fat Pig offers a relaxed dining experience with a focus on seasonal British fare. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Harry's Restaurant - 86 Longbrook Street, Exeter, EX4 6AP

Harry's Restaurant is a beloved Exeter institution known for its delicious comfort food and welcoming ambiance. The menu features a tempting selection of dishes, from burgers to succulent steaks and fresh salads. With its vibrant atmosphere and generous portions, Harry's is the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or family.

Dining out on a budget in Exeter

The Exploding Bakery Café - Central Station Buildings, Queen Street, Exeter, EX4 3SB

For delicious food at wallet-friendly prices, look no further than The Exploding Bakery Café. This cozy spot specializes in freshly baked goods, hearty sandwiches, and gourmet coffee. Enjoy a slice of homemade cake or a savory pastry alongside a cup of locally roasted coffee, all served with a smile in a relaxed setting.

Hubbox - 14 Catherine Street, Exeter, EX1 1EU

For a taste of American-style comfort food, check out Hubbox, a hip burger joint located in the city center. Sink your teeth into juicy burgers, loaded fries, and indulgent milkshakes, all made with high-quality ingredients. With its retro décor and relaxed vibe, Hubbox is the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank.

Whether you're seeking an unforgettable fine dining experience, Exeter offers dining options to suit every taste and budget. From upscale restaurants serving gourmet cuisine to cosy eateries dishing up delicious fare, the culinary scene in Exeter is sure to delight food lovers from near and far.

Sports and Leisure

For visitors to Exeter, sports and leisure activities abound, offering a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. Explore the scenic Exeter Quayside by renting a kayak or paddleboard, or embark on a leisurely bike ride along the picturesque Exe Estuary Trail. For those seeking indoor activities, the city's modern leisure centers provide opportunities for swimming, fitness classes, and racket sports.

Sports enthusiasts can also catch a thrilling match featuring Exeter's notable sports teams. Cheer alongside passionate fans at Sandy Park Stadium as the Exeter Chiefs, one of England's top rugby clubs, compete in gripping Premiership Rugby matches. Additionally, visitors can experience the electric atmosphere of St James Park, home to Exeter City FC, and witness exhilarating football action in the English Football League One..

Whether you're cheering from the stands or participating in active pursuits, Exeter offers a diverse range of sports and leisure options to enhance your visit.

Are you a Sports Fan? Trainsplit has partnered with Pledgeball, a grassroots charity that rallies fellow fans to take action to protect where we play, making changes that improve our air and our green spaces. It can be as simple as swapping to reusable water bottles or taking the train to a match instead of driving. Fans, players, clubs, grassroots teams – the impact we can have together is game-changing.

Overnight stay or weekend away

For those planning an overnight stay or a weekend getaway in Exeter, the city offers a wide array of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. Travelers seeking luxury can indulge in a stay at one of Exeter's upscale hotels, many of which boast elegant rooms, fine dining restaurants, and luxurious amenities. Alternatively, boutique hotels and charming bed and breakfasts provide a cozy and personalized experience, with unique décor and warm hospitality.

For budget-conscious travelers, Exeter offers a variety of budget hotels, hostels, and guesthouses, providing comfortable and affordable lodging options. Additionally, visitors looking for a more immersive experience can opt for self-catering apartments or holiday cottages, allowing them to enjoy the comforts of home while exploring the city at their own pace. With its diverse range of accommodation choices, Exeter ensures that every visitor can find the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate during their stay.

Looking to extend your stay? Click here to explore the variety of accommodations for an overnight break.

Getting the best-value rail tickets possible is something that we at Trainsplit are sure many people want to do. This can include booking in advance, using a Railcard if you have one, travelling outside peak times, and – of course – splitting tickets via our website. If you’d like further information on any of these, please get in touch, and we’ll do what we can to assist you. We do have a comprehensive guide here at Trainsplit on the booking process, which we hope will be very useful. Below, we've outlined some of the key points, including securing cheap train tickets.

How to get cheap train tickets to Exeter from all over the UK

Book Your Train Tickets Early

For the best deals on Cheap Train Tickets, don't delay until the day of departure. Instead, book an Advance Ticket up to 12 weeks ahead when released by the Train Operating Companies. Advance Tickets for trains to Exeter, offering lower prices, often sell out fast. We recommend booking your journey in advance, as early as possible, to secure the most affordable fares. Even if you need to book last minute, you can sometimes still purchase Advance Fares up to an hour before departure.

Use a Railcard

Pairing your journey with a railcard can slash up to a third off the ticket price, offering significant savings on cheap train tickets. If you're a regular train traveller, investing in a railcard will swiftly offset its cost through discounted fares.

Split Your Tickets

With Trainsplit’s unique journey planner, we search for the best-priced train tickets for your journey. You can easily discover the best split ticketing combinations that maximise your savings on train tickets, and best of all, Trainsplit will do all the work for you and doesn’t charge a booking fee.

Avoid Peak Times

Opting for off-peak travel not only saves money on higher-priced train tickets but also offers a more tranquil journey experience. Off-peak hours typically commence around 09:30, making them an ideal choice for budget-conscious travellers heading to Exeter. Additionally, considering splitting your tickets during off-peak hours can further enhance your savings on cheap train tickets for your journey.

Travelling with Multiple Passengers

Explore Groupsave train tickets for discounted fares when travelling with a group of three or more people. It's a great way to save on train tickets and make your journey more affordable. And remember, you can also consider splitting your tickets with Trainsplit to save even more on your train tickets.

Consider an Alternative Route

If you're not starting your journey from London, why not try a different route that doesn't pass through the capital? Cross Country trains offer trips to Exeter that avoid London, providing a smart way to cut down on train travel costs. With Trainsplit’s journey planner, you can easily find cheaper routes to Exeter by splitting your tickets. This can save you money on your train tickets, ensuring you enjoy affordable travel to your destination.

Avoid Booking Fees

Many ticket retailers impose booking fees for each journey booked, adding unnecessary expenses to your travel costs. With Trainsplit, we don't charge a booking fee. Instead, we only charge a Share of Savings, which is a small percentage of the savings you made if we found a split for your journey. Rest assured, it will still work out cheaper than purchasing a through fare. If no splits are found, no Share of Savings will be charged.

Cheap Tickets to Exeter -Rated Excellent on Trustpilot

Claim Delay Repay

In the event of a delay, you may be entitled to compensation under the Delay Repay scheme. Be sure to familiarise yourself with the compensation policy of the operator you're travelling with and submit a claim for any eligible delays.

By using these tips along with Trainsplit’s unique journey planner, you can secure cheap train tickets to Exeter from all over the UK, making your journey more budget-friendly and enjoyable.

Popular Train Journeys in the UK

Check out our other blog posts

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I book Cheap Train Tickets to Exeter?

You can find the cheapest train tickets to Exeter by booking in advance and considering split ticket options. Websites like Trainsplit offer tools to help you find the best deals.

What's the most cost-effective way to travel to Exeter?

The most economical way to travel to Exeter is by booking cheap Advance Tickets and exploring split ticketing options, which can significantly reduce your travel expenses.

When should I book my train tickets to Exeter for the best prices?

To secure the cheapest train tickets to Exeter, it's advisable to book well in advance, as fares tend to increase closer to the travel date. Additionally, consider exploring split ticketing options for additional savings.

Can I save money by splitting my train tickets when travelling to Exeter?

Yes, splitting your train tickets to Exeter can often result in significant cost savings compared to purchasing a single through ticket. Services like Trainsplit can help you find the most advantageous split ticket combinations.

Are there any discounts available for frequent train travellers to Exeter?

Consider purchasing a digital railcard that offers discounts for frequent train travellers to Exeter and other destinations. A railcard can provide significant savings on train tickets, especially when combined with strategies such as split ticketing, to ensure you get the cheapest possible fares for your journeys. Whether you're commuting regularly or planning occasional trips, a railcard is a valuable investment that can help you maximise your savings on train travel to Exeter and beyond.

Is it cheaper to book train tickets to Exeter online or at the station?

When looking to secure cheap train tickets to Exeter, booking online in advance typically provides the most cost-effective fares. Using train ticket booking platforms like Trainsplit can also help in finding split ticket options, further reducing your travel expenses.

Remember, if you have any questions about train travel or need assistance, feel free to reach out to our team. We're here to help you plan a memorable journey.

Trains to Aberystwyth

Trains to Sheffield

Trains to York

Take your journeys with you

Journey Planner