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Trains from Chelmsford to
Exeter St Thomas

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Chelmsford to Exeter St Thomas by train

A train trip from Chelmsford to Exeter St Thomas takes about 5hrs 3 mins on average, covering roughly 187 miles (301 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 £19.60, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Chelmsford to Exeter St Thomas Key Stats

Arrival Station

Exeter St Thomas

Departure Station

Chelmsford

Frequency

18trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 43 mins

Changes

3-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:41 / 01:26

Distance

187miles
(301 km)

3 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£19.60

Travelling from Chelmsford to Exeter St Thomas by Train

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

Planning to travel from Chelmsford 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 5hrs 3 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 3hrs 43 mins. With roughly 18 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 187-mile (301 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of GWR, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Elizabeth Line, Abellio Greater Anglia, 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 £19.60 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 Chelmsford and Exeter St Thomas

Curious about your trip from Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford and Exeter St Thomas by train?

The travel time between Chelmsford and Exeter St Thomas by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 3 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 43 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Chelmsford to Exeter St Thomas is 3hrs 43 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Chelmsford to Exeter St Thomas can start from as little as £19.60 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 Chelmsford and Exeter St Thomas?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Chelmsford 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 05:41, and the last train of the day leaves at 01:26.

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

First class tickets on trains between Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford and Exeter St Thomas?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford to Exeter St Thomas?

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

What train companies run services from Chelmsford to Exeter St Thomas?

GWR, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Elizabeth Line and Abellio Greater Anglia are the main train operating companies running services between Chelmsford and Exeter St Thomas.

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

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

When are Chelmsford to Exeter St Thomas Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Chelmsford to Exeter St Thomas 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
23:59 Chelmsford15:31 Exeter St Thomas3 changesNorwich
Chesterfield
Exeter St David's
15 hrs 32 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford to Exeter St Thomas start from as little as £19.60

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.

Off Peak fares from Chelmsford to Exeter St Thomas start from £121.20 one way, or £122.20 return

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 Chelmsford to Exeter St Thomas are available for £110.90 one way, or £181.40 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 Chelmsford Station

Welcome to Chelmsford Station

Nestled in the bustling heart of Essex, Chelmsford train station is a hub of activity and a vital gateway for travelers venturing in and out of London. For daily commuters and occasional travelers alike, Chelmsford offers an inviting blend of efficiency and convenience. Whether you're heading to the capital or exploring the scenic beauty of Essex, Chelmsford station ensures your journey is comfortable and hassle-free.

Facilities and Amenities

Chelmsford train station offers a myriad of facilities to meet the diverse needs of its passengers. With a ticket office open from 5:50 AM to 10 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, and from 7 AM to 11 PM on Sundays, you have plenty of opportunity to grab or collect your tickets. For added convenience, ticket machines are available around the clock. Chelmsford station has taken steps to ensure accessibility for all, offering step-free access, accessible ticket machines, and toilets. CCTV coverage ensures safety, while its commitment to passenger comfort is evident in its waiting rooms, open from 5 AM to 11 PM throughout the week.

When it comes to shopping and dining, you're never short of options at Chelmsford. Grab a coffee from Coffee Link, savor a sushi roll at Ume Garden’s Sushi & Bento, or refresh yourself with a snack from one of the vending machines. If you’re in the mood for something familiar, Costa Coffee and Puccino's Deli are ready to serve you. There is even an ATM available to handle any last-minute cash needs!

Getting Around

Transport links at Chelmsford are carefully designed to ensure seamless travel. When railway services are disrupted, rail replacement buses conveniently pick up and drop off at the bus stops on Victoria Road at the station entrance. The local bus service network is quite efficient, covering Chelmsford and nearby towns and can be further explored at FirstGroup. Plus, a PLUSBUS extension to your train ticket guarantees unlimited bus travel in town at discounted rates.

Taxis are readily available from the rank just outside the station for those preferring private conveyance while the cycling community may take advantage of the extensive bicycle storage facilities with 960 spaces and sheltered, CCTV-monitored secure options available.

Popular Destinations

Chelmsford’s strategic location makes it an attractive starting point for your travels. Among the most popular destinations are trips to London Liverpool Street, Colchester, and Billericay. You can also explore routes to Ipswich, Southend Victoria, and even head further north to Norwich.

Closing Thoughts

Whether you're embarking on a short commute or a leisurely journey across East Anglia, Chelmsford train station provides a haven of accessibility, amenities, and connectivity. With its array of services and connections, you're in capable hands from the moment you step through its doors. Consider Chelmsford as your launch pad to adventure—where will it take you today?

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 Chelmsford