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Trains from Cardiff Central to
St James Park (Exeter)

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Cardiff Central to St James Park (Exeter) by train

A train trip from Cardiff Central to St James Park (Exeter) takes about 3hrs 23 mins on average, covering roughly 53 miles (86 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 St James Park (Exeter) Key Stats

Arrival Station

St James Park (Exeter)

Departure Station

Cardiff Central

Frequency

18trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 49 mins

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:28 / 00:38

Distance

53miles
(86 km)

2 Routes

2 Train Operators

Prices

from£23.50

Travelling from Cardiff Central to St James Park (Exeter) by Train

Hop on a Train from Cardiff Central to St James Park (Exeter) – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Cardiff Central to St James Park (Exeter) 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 23 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to St James Park (Exeter)), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 2hrs 49 mins. With roughly 18 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 53-mile (86 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 St James Park (Exeter)!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Central and St James Park (Exeter)

Curious about your trip from Cardiff Central to St James Park (Exeter)? 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 St James Park (Exeter) by train?

The travel time between Cardiff Central and St James Park (Exeter) by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 23 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 49 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Cardiff Central and St James Park (Exeter) by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Central to St James Park (Exeter) is 2hrs 49 mins.

How much does the train from Cardiff Central to St James Park (Exeter) cost?

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central to St James Park (Exeter) 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 St James Park (Exeter)?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Central and St James Park (Exeter) 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 06:28, 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 St James Park (Exeter)?

First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Central and St James Park (Exeter) 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 St James Park (Exeter)?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Cardiff Central to St James Park (Exeter) 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 St James Park (Exeter). On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to St James Park (Exeter), 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 St James Park (Exeter)?

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

What train companies run services from Cardiff Central to St James Park (Exeter)?

GWR and CrossCountry are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Central and St James Park (Exeter).

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Central and St James Park (Exeter)?

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

When are Cardiff Central to St James Park (Exeter) Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Central to St James Park (Exeter) on Wednesday 30th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Wednesday 30th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
09:28 Cardiff Central12:21 St James Park (Exeter)2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Exeter St David's
2 hrs 53 mins Get Tickets
10:30 Cardiff Central13:20 St James Park (Exeter)2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Exeter St David's
2 hrs 50 mins Get Tickets
11:30 Cardiff Central14:21 St James Park (Exeter)2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Exeter St David's
2 hrs 51 mins Get Tickets
12:30 Cardiff Central15:21 St James Park (Exeter)2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Exeter St David's
2 hrs 51 mins Get Tickets
13:30 Cardiff Central16:22 St James Park (Exeter)2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Exeter St David's
2 hrs 52 mins Get Tickets
14:00 Cardiff Central16:55 St James Park (Exeter)1 changeExeter St David's
2 hrs 55 mins Get Tickets
14:30 Cardiff Central17:21 St James Park (Exeter)2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Exeter St David's
2 hrs 51 mins Get Tickets
16:00 Cardiff Central18:24 St James Park (Exeter)2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Exeter St David's
2 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
16:27 Cardiff Central19:19 St James Park (Exeter)2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Exeter St David's
2 hrs 52 mins Get Tickets
17:27 Cardiff Central20:21 St James Park (Exeter)2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Exeter St David's
2 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
18:00 Cardiff Central20:49 St James Park (Exeter)1 changeExeter St David's
2 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
19:28 Cardiff Central21:58 St James Park (Exeter)2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Exeter St David's
2 hrs 30 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Central to St James Park (Exeter) 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 St James Park (Exeter) 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 St James Park (Exeter) 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 St James Park (Exeter) Station

Discovering the Charm of St James Park (Exeter) Train Station

In the picturesque city of Exeter, nestled within the county of Devon, lies the quaint St James Park (Exeter) train station. Its close proximity to Exeter City Football Club makes it a convenient spot for football enthusiasts traveling to catch a game. This station might appear modest, but it offers a glimpse into local commuting life while providing essential connectivity for residents and visitors alike.

Facilities at St James Park (Exeter)

St James Park is a minimalist station with straightforward amenities. While it doesn't boast a ticket office or ticket machines, travelers can still prepare ahead by purchasing tickets online. For those with accessibility needs, it's important to note that while there's some step-free access, reaching the Exeter-bound platform involves a degree of difficulty with no fully accessible route available. However, the Exmouth-bound platform can be accessed via a steep ramp.

Despite the absence of wait rooms, refreshment facilities, and an ATM, you'll find a seating area to rest your feet. There's also an induction loop within the station to assist those with hearing impairments. Although staff-driven assistance is not available, a help point ensures that information and support needs are met.

Travel Connections and Onward Journeys

Transport links from St James Park offer opportunities to explore Exeter and beyond. While direct taxi services aren't available at the station, the nearby Old Tiverton Road provides convenient bus stops for onward travel. For cycling enthusiasts, although no bicycle hire is directly available, the station offers four parking spaces for bicycles.

If you're looking to dive deeper into the local area, numerous popular routes departing from St James Park include Exeter St David's, a hub for trains heading to larger destinations like Bristol Temple Meads and London Paddington. Enjoy scenic trips to coastal towns such as Exmouth or Dawlish, or venture further to cities like Plymouth and Torquay. These connections make the station a gateway to myriad experiences across the UK.

Planning Your Visit

While small in stature, St James Park (Exeter) provides fundamental convenience and charm nestled within a vibrant city. Whether you're commuting daily or merely visiting, considering these various transport options in advance will ensure a seamless journey.

Embrace the simplicity of the station while taking advantage of its accessible connections, and embark on your next UK rail adventure by purchasing your tickets with ease. With options to travel to exciting and picturesque destinations nearby and beyond, St James Park awaits with open arms.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Central