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Reading to Exeter from $21: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Reading, United Kingdom
to
Exeter, United Kingdom

How to Get from Reading to Exeter: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$21 RideshareBest price
198.5 kmDistance
1h 44m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Reading to Exeter with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
First Great Western Service
Train
Average Duration
1h  44m
Estimated price
$80-180
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
3h  8m
Estimated price
$21-21
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 198.5 km
Duration: 1h 44m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  39m
Estimated price
$50-75
Company
Various
Train
Average Duration
3h  40m
Estimated price
$74-193
Company
Various
Train
Average Duration
3h  34m
Estimated price
$80-180
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Traveling From Reading to Exeter

Traveling from Reading to Exeter connects you with the bustling energy of a vibrant town to the serene charm of a historic city, each offering distinct atmospheres and attractions.

Best Neighbourhoods in Exeter

Exeter boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct experience for visitors.

City Centre
• Thriving shopping district with various high-street brands.
• Home to historic sites like Exeter Cathedral.
St. Leonard's
• Quaint streets with charming period architecture.
• Features excellent cafes and local boutiques.
Magdalen Road
• Known for its vibrant independent shops and eateries.
• Hosts community events that showcase local culture.

Best Times To Visit Exeter's Attractions

Timing your visit to Exeter’s attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Exeter Cathedral
Visit early in the morning on weekdays for peaceful exploration.
Royal Albert Memorial Museum
Afternoons during weekdays offer a quieter atmosphere to enjoy exhibits.
The Quayside
Late afternoon on weekdays allows for a relaxing stroll away from crowds.

Exeter Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Exeter enjoys a mild climate with relatively moderate temperatures throughout the year, making it a pleasant destination in all seasons. The best times to visit are late spring and early autumn, when you can take advantage of favorable weather while avoiding peak tourist crowds.

Dining Recommendation in Exeter

Try the locally sourced Exeter crab served at The Orange Tree, a charming pub that emphasizes fresh ingredients and a relaxed atmosphere. This dining experience stands apart from Reading’s offerings, as it showcases the coastal flavors of the southwest with a focus on sustainability and seasonal produce.

Reading - Exeter operators

Explore transport companies operating between Reading and Exeter, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+44 3457 000 125
Website
https://www.gwr.com/

Train from Reading to Exeter St Davids

Average Duration
1h 44m
Estimated price
$80-180
Contact phone
0345 6000 650
Website
https://www.southwesternrailway.com/

Train from Basingstoke to Exeter Central

Average Duration
2h 31m
Estimated price
$65-160
Rideshare
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.com/

Rideshare from Reading to Exeter

Average Duration
3h 8m
Estimated price
$21-21

Reading to Exeter: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Reading and Exeter offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque journey spanning 251.1 km from Reading to Exeter, taking approximately 2 hours and 39 minutes by car. 💸 Explore cost-effective travel options ranging from £39 to £59 for a road trip from Reading to Exeter by car.
Average price
£39 - £58
🚆 Heading from Reading to Exeter by train is a convenient journey that takes approximately 1 hour and 44 minutes. The direct train service operated by First Great Western departs hourly, offering a smooth travel experience every day. 🛤️ The distance of 222 km between Reading and Exeter can be covered swiftly via various routes, with travel times ranging from 1 hour 48 minutes to 2 hours 44 minutes. Depending on the route chosen, passengers may enjoy a direct journey or transfer at intermediate stations like London Paddington or Bristol Temple Meads. 🎫 Prices for the train journey between Reading and Exeter typically range from £63 to £142, offering passengers flexibility in selecting their travel options based on schedule and budget preferences. With reliable services and efficient connections, traveling by train provides a comfortable and scenic way to explore the UK countryside.
Departure Point
Reading station
Arrival Point
Exeter St Davids station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your trip from Reading to Exeter will vary by operator, but most offer catering services. Great Western Railway provides a trolley service with snacks and drinks, including hot and cold beverages, as well as a selection of pre-packaged meals. You can also order food and drinks via their app for convenience.
• When traveling from Reading to Exeter, you typically have the option to choose between First Class and Standard Class. Great Western Railway offers First Class seating which provides more spacious seats, a quieter environment, complimentary refreshments, and larger tables. If you prefer to travel economically, Standard Class seating is available, providing comfortable yet more budget-friendly options.
• You can travel between Exeter and Reading using two main operators: Great Western Railway (gwr.com) and South Western Railway (southwesternrailway.com). Be sure to check both websites for real-time schedule updates and alternate travel options. Additionally, consider visiting Exeter's official transport website for local bus schedules and mapping: (exeter.gov.uk)
☀️ For a scenic journey from Reading to Exeter by bus, you can expect a total travel time of approximately 6 hours and 19 minutes covering a distance of 337 km with 2 transfers along the way. 🚌 The first leg of the trip involves boarding a bus towards Heathrow Airport, which takes about 1 hour and brings you to Heathrow Terminal 2. This transfer is operated by RailAir, and departs from Reading Station. 🌳 The second and final bus leg towards Exeter includes a journey towards Plymouth, lasting about 2 hours and 31 minutes. Board the bus at Bristol Bond St and arrive at Exeter Honiton Road Park and Ride, enjoying the countryside along the way.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider booking your bus tickets in advance through RailAir and Megabus to secure lower fares and ensure availability for your journey from Reading to Exeter, especially during peak travel times; check their schedules at railair.com and megabus.com
• When you arrive at Exeter Honiton Road Park and Ride, familiarize yourself with the nearby transport options, including the frequent bus services into the city center, which can be checked on the local council’s website: devon.gov.uk
• During your bus transfers, plan ahead by reviewing the terminal layouts at Heathrow Airport and Bristol for efficient navigation—maps and information are available at the respective airports’ websites, which can help minimize any stress during your transit.

Trips from Reading