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Manchester, Greater Manchester to Exeter, Devon from $30: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Manchester, United Kingdom
to
Exeter, United Kingdom

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

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$30 by busBest price
388 kmDistance
4h 2m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Manchester 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
CrossCountry
Train
Average Duration
4h  6m
Estimated price
$120-370
Recommended
Company
Megabus UK
Bus
Average Duration
7h  15m
Estimated price
$30-42
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 388 km
Duration: 4h 2m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  2m
Estimated price
$70-1
Company
Various
Train
Average Duration
4h  48m
Estimated price
$120-370
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  34m
Estimated price
$130-240

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $21 $21 $21 $20 $20 $19 $19
Train $104 $73 $69 $66 $75 $73 $104

Traveling From Manchester to Exeter

Your journey from Manchester to Exeter offers a delightful contrast between the bustling energy of a vibrant city and the serene charm of a coastal town.

Best Neighbourhoods in Exeter

Exeter features a mix of historic charm and modern vibrancy in its neighborhoods.

Exeter City Centre
• Home to the stunning Exeter Cathedral.
• Vibrant shops, cafes, and cultural events abound.
St. Leonards
• Offers beautiful, leafy streets and parks.
• Known for its art galleries and local restaurants.
Cowick Street
• A hub for independent shops and eateries.
• Close to scenic riverside walks.

Best Times To Visit Exeter's Attractions

Maximize your Exeter experience by visiting attractions at the right times.

Exeter Cathedral
Early mornings on weekdays provide a quieter experience and stunning light for photos.
Royal Albert Memorial Museum
Visit on Wednesday afternoons for a peaceful exploration without crowds.
Quayside
Enjoy early evenings, especially at sunset, for a magical riverside stroll.

Exeter Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Exeter experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers, making it an attractive destination year-round. For the best experience, consider visiting during late spring or early autumn when the weather is pleasant and crowds are manageable.

Dining Recommendation in Exeter

Don’t miss the chance to try Devon cream tea at The Hotel du Vin, where scones are freshly baked and served with clotted cream and local jam—a true taste of Devon. This experience offers a cozy and relaxed atmosphere that contrasts with the diverse, bustling dining scene in Manchester, allowing you to savor local flavors and relax.

Manchester - Exeter operators

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

Train
Contact phone
0344 736 9123
Website
https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/

Train from Manchester Piccadilly to Exeter St Davids

Average Duration
4h 6m
Estimated price
98-301

Train from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street

Average Duration
1h 31m
Estimated price
85-105

Train from Birmingham New Street to Exeter St Davids

Average Duration
2h 33m
Estimated price
87-105

Train from Manchester Piccadilly to Cardiff Central

Average Duration
3h 12m
Estimated price
11-80

Train from Cardiff Central to Exeter St Davids

Average Duration
2h 22m
Estimated price
12-13
Bus
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Manchester Shudehill Interchange to Bristol Bond St

Average Duration
4h 25m
Estimated price
15-16

Bus from Bristol to Exeter

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
17-18
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Bristol to Exeter

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
17-18

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

Traveling between Manchester 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.

Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on trains from Manchester to Exeter vary by operator. For instance, Avanti West Coast offers a catering service with a range of snacks, meals, and beverages available for purchase at your seat in First Class, while standard class generally has light snacks and drinks available via vending machines or the onboard trolley service.
• The primary operators for this route are Avanti West Coast and Great Western Railway (GWR). Avanti West Coast provides Standard and First Class seating, with First Class offering spacious seats and complimentary refreshments. GWR also offers Standard and First Class options, with comfy seating and additional legroom in First Class. You can check their websites for more information: Avanti West Coast and GWR.
• Upon arriving at Exeter St Davids, the station offers luggage storage facilities, allowing you to explore the city without your bags. There are restrooms available, but no shower facilities. To get to the city center quickly, take the number 7 bus from just outside the station, which frequently runs and takes about 10 minutes to reach the center.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• When booking your bus trip from Manchester to Exeter, compare schedules from both Megabus UK (megabus.com) and FlixBus (flixbus.co.uk) to choose the option that best fits your schedule, as there are no direct buses and you'll need to transfer in Bristol.
• Make sure to check the latest travel updates and potential delays on your bus route, as this helps you better plan for your arrival in Exeter and manage any transfer times, especially at Bristol.
• Upon arriving at Exeter Bus Station, take note of the facility's layout and nearby amenities: the station is well-connected to local buses, and if you need assistance, look for the information desk just inside the entrance.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Manchester to Exeter.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Manchester and Exeter is 199 miles by air or by direct route. By road, the distance is slightly longer at 240.8 miles. Traveling by train is the quickest option, taking approximately 4 hours and 6 minutes from Manchester to Exeter. Alternatively, flying to Newquay and then taking a train to Exeter takes around 5 hours and 39 minutes. Driving by car from Manchester to Exeter takes about 4 hours and 2 minutes, while taking a bus is the slowest option, with a travel time of approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Manchester to Exeter is by bus, with tickets costing between £27-£43. However, it is important to note that this option also takes the longest time, with a journey of approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes. On the other hand, the quickest way to reach Exeter from Manchester is by driving, which takes approximately 4 hours and 2 minutes and costs between £59-£94 in fuel expenses.
The prices of a train ticket between Manchester and Exeter can range from £102 to £322. On the other hand, a bus ticket from Exeter to Manchester typically costs between £28 and £40. The specific price will depend on factors such as the date of travel, class of service, and whether the ticket is purchased in advance or on the day of travel. It is recommended to check with the respective train and bus operators for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To travel from Manchester to Exeter without using public transportation, you can opt for a self-drive option. The distance is approximately 241 miles, and it takes around 4 hours and 2 minutes to drive from Manchester to Exeter. The estimated prices for car rental range from £59 to £94, depending on the rental company and vehicle type chosen.
To travel from Manchester to Exeter without a car, the best option is by train. This journey takes approximately 4 hours and 6 minutes and costs between £102 and £322. Another option is to take a bus, which takes 7 hours and 10 minutes and costs between £27 and £43. Alternatively, you could fly from Manchester to Exeter, which takes around 5 hours and 16 minutes and costs between £71 and £251.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Manchester and Exeter. The CrossCountry train service departs from Manchester Piccadilly station and arrives at Exeter St Davids station. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 6 minutes. However, there is no direct bus service between the two cities, but there are bus services available with transfers that take approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes.
The flight between Manchester and Exeter typically takes around 4 hours and 15 minutes, with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight available between the two cities. The prices for a flight between Exeter and Manchester can range from £72 to £248, depending on various factors such as the airline, the time of booking, and the class of travel. It is advisable to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Exeter. With over 1119 hotels available, you can find something to suit your budget and preferences. Prices start at £27 per night, so there are affordable options for those on a tight budget. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.