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Trains from Cardiff Central to
Exeter St Thomas

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Cardiff Central to Exeter St Thomas by train

A train trip from Cardiff Central to Exeter St Thomas takes about 3hrs 9 mins on average, covering roughly 54 miles (88 kilometres). With around 18 trains running each day, there's plenty of flexibility for your travel plans. If you book in advance, you can grab tickets starting from just £23.50, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Cardiff Central to Exeter St Thomas Key Stats

Arrival Station

Exeter St Thomas

Departure Station

Cardiff Central

Frequency

18trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 31 mins

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:51 / 00:38

Distance

54miles
(88 km)

3 Routes

2 Train Operators

Prices

from£23.50

Travelling from Cardiff Central to Exeter St Thomas by Train

Hop on a Train from Cardiff Central to Exeter St Thomas – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Cardiff Central to Exeter St Thomas by train? Well, you've come to the right place – and don’t worry, it won’t take forever!

On average, the journey takes around 3hrs 9 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Exeter St Thomas), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 2hrs 31 mins. With roughly 18 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 54-mile (88 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of GWR, CrossCountry, all of whom offer comfy seats and plenty of luggage space – because, let’s face it, nobody likes a cramped train!

The best part? Tickets start from just £23.50 if you book in advance, which is a much better deal than scrambling for tickets on the day. Want to save even more? Travelling during Off-Peak hours or flashing a Railcard can help you keep more money in your wallet.

So, ready to snag those cheap tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest prices and make your wallet happy. Keep scrolling for more travel tips, or check out our timetable above for live train times. Time to choo-choo your way to Exeter St Thomas!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Central and Exeter St Thomas

Curious about your trip from Cardiff Central to Exeter St Thomas? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between Cardiff Central and Exeter St Thomas by train?

The travel time between Cardiff Central and Exeter St Thomas by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 9 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 31 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Cardiff Central and Exeter St Thomas by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Central to Exeter St Thomas is 2hrs 31 mins.

How much does the train from Cardiff Central to Exeter St Thomas cost?

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central to Exeter St Thomas can start from as little as £23.50 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Central and Exeter St Thomas?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Central and Exeter St Thomas vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 18 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:51, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:38.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Cardiff Central and Exeter St Thomas?

First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Central and Exeter St Thomas typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Cardiff Central and Exeter St Thomas?

Amenities on trains between Cardiff Central and Exeter St Thomas can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Cardiff Central to Exeter St Thomas by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Cardiff Central and Exeter St Thomas. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Exeter St Thomas, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Cardiff Central to Exeter St Thomas?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Cardiff Central & Exeter St Thomas. However, there are 18 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Cardiff Central to Exeter St Thomas?

GWR and CrossCountry are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Central and Exeter St Thomas.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Central and Exeter St Thomas?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Central and Exeter St Thomas, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Cardiff Central to Exeter St Thomas Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Central to Exeter St Thomas on Monday 28th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Monday 28th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
06:57 Cardiff Central09:35 Exeter St Thomas2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Exeter St David's
2 hrs 38 mins Get Tickets
08:00 Cardiff Central10:33 Exeter St Thomas1 changeExeter St David's
2 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
08:37 Cardiff Central11:32 Exeter St Thomas2 changesBristol Parkway
Exeter St David's
2 hrs 55 mins Get Tickets
09:28 Cardiff Central12:32 Exeter St Thomas2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Exeter St David's
3 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
11:00 Cardiff Central13:31 Exeter St Thomas1 changeExeter St David's
2 hrs 31 mins Get Tickets
11:30 Cardiff Central14:31 Exeter St Thomas2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Exeter St David's
3 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
13:00 Cardiff Central15:31 Exeter St Thomas1 changeExeter St David's
2 hrs 31 mins Get Tickets
13:30 Cardiff Central16:00 Exeter St Thomas2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Exeter St David's
2 hrs 30 mins Get Tickets
14:00 Cardiff Central16:33 Exeter St Thomas1 changeExeter St David's
2 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
14:30 Cardiff Central17:06 Exeter St Thomas2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Exeter St David's
2 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
15:30 Cardiff Central18:02 Exeter St Thomas2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Exeter St David's
2 hrs 32 mins Get Tickets
16:00 Cardiff Central18:33 Exeter St Thomas2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Exeter St David's
2 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Central to Exeter St Thomas journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Advance fares from Cardiff Central to Exeter St Thomas start from as little as £23.50

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from Cardiff Central to Exeter St Thomas are available for £59.40 one way, or £71.60 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

Split ticketing means that instead of purchasing one rail ticket for your journey we automatically find and help you book two or more tickets instead, covering exactly the same journey. We call it our FairSplit.

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about Cardiff Central Station

Discover Cardiff Central Train Station

Cardiff Central train station is not just a hub of connectivity but a vibrant part of the city's fabric. Nestled in the heart of Cardiff, the station serves as a gateway to a rich tapestry of Welsh culture and beyond, offering excellent transport links to many popular destinations. Whether you're a local commuter, a tourist exploring Wales, or a business traveler, Cardiff Central provides the amenities and services to ensure your journey is comfortable and convenient.

Facilities and Amenities

Cardiff Central station is designed with the comfort of travelers in mind. With ticket office hours stretching from early morning until late at night, and the presence of both regular and accessible ticket machines, purchasing and collecting tickets is straightforward. If you've opted to buy your tickets online, you can conveniently collect them from the ticket machines.

The station is fully accessible with step-free access across all platforms, making travel simple for everyone, including those with mobility issues. You'll also find helpful staff available almost 24/7 to assist with any inquiries. With multiple waiting rooms open daily from 6 am to 10 pm, you can relax comfortably while awaiting your train. And if you're looking to pass the time, Cardiff Central boasts shops like WHSmith, and various vending machines for hot and cold refreshments.

Connectivity and Travel Links

This bustling station is well-connected to local and regional transport services. You can access the taxi ranks located on Saunders Road or take advantage of the newly opened Cardiff Bus Interchange at Central Square, which enhances your options for onward journey convenience. For those needing to catch a flight, the T9 Airport Express coach service is just a stone's throw away, offering a direct link to Cardiff Airport in about 40 minutes. Discover the flexibility of limitless travel within Cardiff when you purchase a Cardiff PlusBus ticket alongside your train ticket!

Popular Destinations

Cardiff Central serves as a perfect launch point for scenic and practical rail journeys. Head to London Paddington for a day in the capital, or perhaps enjoy a coastal trip to Swansea. For those seeking closer adventures, you might consider hopping on a train to Newport or the historic city of Bath Spa.

In Conclusion

Cardiff Central train station stands as a pillar of convenience and connectivity in Wales. Whether you're buying a ticket on-site or collecting one pre-purchased online, embarking on a quick local trip or a grand voyage to the bustling cityscape of London, Cardiff Central has got you covered. With its strategic location, comprehensive facilities, and countless onward travel possibilities, your journey begins right here. Dive into the efficiency and ease offered by Cardiff Central and let it be the starting point for your next travel adventure.

Everything you need to know about Exeter St Thomas Station

Welcome to Exeter St Thomas Train Station

If you're planning a journey in the southwest of England, Exeter St Thomas train station is your gateway to exploring picturesque Devon and beyond. Nestled in a vibrant suburb near the River Exe, this station connects passengers to key locations across the region and offers a taste of Exeter's charm. Whether you're heading on a short commute or a longer venture, Exeter St Thomas station makes a convenient starting point.

Station Facilities and Amenities

Exeter St Thomas is a simple, accessible station without a ticket office, but it provides ticket machines for easy collection of pre-purchased tickets. In addition to standard purchasing options, you can collect your online-bought tickets from these machines. They are designed to accommodate all passengers, with accessible features like an induction loop. For those in need of assistance, the station is equipped with a help point and departure screens providing the latest travel information.

Although the station doesn't boast a wide range of facilities, attentive customer service and a customer help point ensure travelers have support when needed. It's worth noting that the station lacks some conveniences like luggage storage and refreshment facilities, so plan accordingly. For those traveling by bike, there are limited bicycle storage spaces available at the bottom of the stairs leading to platform one, yet they are not sheltered nor under CCTV surveillance.

Accessibility and Travel Connections

While Exeter St Thomas provides accessible ticket machines and a ramp for train access, it does lack some key accessibility features, such as step-free access to platforms. For onward travel, the station is linked to nearby bus stops at Cowick Street, offering connections to Exeter St David’s and further routes to locations like Newton Abbot. There’s a regular bus service to Exeter Airport from St David's Station, making travel seamless for outgoing flights. If you're taking a bike along, a PLUSBUS ticket will facilitate a smooth transition from train to road.

Taxi services are unavailable at the station itself, so it's advisable to arrange transportation beforehand if you're planning to explore beyond the immediate vicinity without a car or bicycle.

Explore Destinations from Exeter St Thomas

From Exeter St Thomas, a myriad of enchanting destinations await. Frequent trains head to coastal spots like Exmouth and Dawlish, perfect for seaside escapes. Within easy reach are destinations like Teignmouth and Newton Abbot, or head to picturesque Barnstaple and Topsham for a change of scenery. For those interested in cultural excursions, Exeter St Thomas offers connections to landmarks like Exeter Central.

Other popular routes include journeys to Paignton, Torquay, and the bustling city of Plymouth. For a touch of serenity, consider a trip to Dawlish Warren or the rural beauty of Okehampton. By traveling from Exeter St Thomas, the possibilities are as exciting as they are varied, promising experiences that cater to every traveler's taste.

Your Next Journey Awaits

Whether you're a local commuter or a curious traveler, Exeter St Thomas train station is your connector to diverse experiences within Devon and beyond. While the station keeps things simple, its strategic connections and straightforward amenities ensure an easy journey start. Embrace the opportunity to explore new horizons by purchasing your train tickets through our user-friendly options, setting the stage for adventures that await at every stop.

With your next travel plan in sight, let Exeter St Thomas be the station that takes you there. Come and discover where the journey begins!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Central