So, you’re planning the classic Exeter to Teignmouth hop. Good choice! Whether you’re craving some fresh sea air, planning a classic fish n’ chips lunch on the beach, or simply fancy seeing how the other half lives by the coast, there are plenty of ways to get from lively Exeter to laid-back Teignmouth.
This guide covers every useful, boring, and quirky option, from the quick Teignmouth to Exeter train back to the (sometimes) scenic bus. All you need now is your phone, a bit of spare change, and a flexible approach to the reliably unreliable British weather.
By Bus: Practical Info
If trains aren’t your thing (or perhaps you have fond memories of double-deckers), the Teignmouth to Exeter bus is a solid alternative. Stagecoach South West is the main operator, with the popular 2 and 2B routes connecting the cities.
Key details:
- Operator: Stagecoach South West (www.stagecoachbus.com)
- Frequency: Up to every 30 minutes on weekdays, hourly on Sundays.
- Journey Time: Approximately 70–100 minutes (it’s not a race, but the bus does take the scenic route).
- Ticket Prices:
- Adult singles: Usually £5–£6 (buy on the app, website or from the driver).
- Day tickets: Around £8–£9 for unlimited travel with a ‘DayRider’ pass.
- Booking: Tickets via Stagecoach’s site or the app. You can tap contactless cards onboard.
Handy tip: while the buses aren’t quite as quick as the train, they do wind through some of Devon’s beautiful and lesser-known villages. As such, you’ll get a local’s-eye view on rural life (bonus: no parking stress in Teignmouth).
By Train: Times and Routes
Let’s be honest: the Teignmouth to Exeter train (or indeed Exeter to Teignmouth) route is the jewel in the Great Western Railway crown, especially if you appreciate a good sea view. The service runs frequently (often every 20-30 minutes during the day), with trains operated primarily by Great Western Railway (GWR). Both Exeter St Davids to Teignmouth and Exeter Central to Teignmouth are well served, and if you time it right, you’ll be gazing out at the famous Dawlish coastline in no time.
A key point: Trains start at Exeter Central, stop next at Exeter St Davids, then continue on towards Teignmouth. So if you’re travelling from Exeter Central to Teignmouth, Exeter St Davids is always your first stop. If you’re staying closer to Exeter St Davids, you might as well just hop on there!
Key details:
- Operator: Great Western Railway (www.gwr.com)
- Frequency: 2–3 trains per hour in both directions, usually from early morning (around 6:00 AM) to late evening.
- Journey Time: About 20–30 minutes from Exeter St Davids to Teignmouth; around 24-36 minutes total from Exeter Central depending on the train.
- Ticket Prices:
- Advance single: Usually from £4–£5 when booked online.
- Anytime single: £5–£8 depending on time and class.
- Railcards and off-peak discounts make this even cheaper.
Booking: Book via GWR’s website, National Rail, or the Trainline.
Driving from Exeter to Teignmouth
If you’re up for a drive, Exeter to Teignmouth via the A379 is a breezy 17-mile journey. Traffic permitting, you’ll be dipping your toes in the sea in just 30 minutes.
Key details:
- Route: A379, passing Kenton and Starcross (sublime estuary scenery included).
- Alternative Route: While less scenic, you can also take the A380 road past Kennford and Ashcombe, and then the B3192 towards Teignmouth passing by the golf course. It can be faster (15 miles) but there’s a lot less to see along the way.
- Parking: Teignmouth has several council-run car parks and on-street meters. In high season, get there early.
Tolls: No regular toll road fees, but budget for fuel and maybe an ice cream or two.
Things to Do Along the Way
Don’t make the error of treating this route as just point-A-to-point-B. Travelling from Exeter to Teignmouth, there’s plenty to make the journey worthwhile.
Start at Exeter Quayside, where a good coffee and a leisurely canal-side stroll can set the mood for your trip. Just outside the city, Powderham Castle offers history and acres of manicured deer park.
As the train or bike route hugs the coastline, Dawlish Warren makes for a brilliant stop-off. With its family-friendly sandy beach and nature reserve, it’s perfect for a quick sun-and-sand break, particularly if you’re swapping trains at Dawlish.
Adventure-seekers and cyclists will love the Exe Estuary Trail, a scenic path that lets you pedal (or power-walk) all the way from Exeter to Teignmouth with estuary views the whole way.
And before you finally hit Teignmouth, consider a detour to Shaldon Village. Just across the river, it’s packed with chocolate-box cottages, secret smugglers’ tunnels, and even a small zoo for animal lovers both big and small.
We’ve got a dedicated blog on Things to Do in Teignmouth for when you arrive.
FAQs About the Journey
Is it quicker to get from Exeter to Teignmouth by train or by bus?
Train wins for speed and sea views, bus wins for the scenic village crawl.
Can I buy a ticket on the train or bus?
Yes, but it’s a little cheaper to buy online or via the relevant apps (GWR for trains, Stagecoach for buses).
What’s the best website for timetable updates?
For trains: www.gwr.com or www.nationalrail.co.uk.
For buses: www.stagecoachbus.com.
Any good stops between Teignmouth and Exeter if I want to break up the trip?
Dawlish for a scenic stop (especially if you love coastal towns), Starcross for riverside views, and Kenton for a quick castle detour.
What are the best restaurants in Teignmouth?
You’ve got plenty of options! Check out our foodies guide to Teignmouth restaurants for the full lowdown.
Plan Your Day Trip to Teignmouth
However you choose to make the Exeter to Teignmouth dash—train, bus, car, bike, or an ambitious hike—one thing’s certain: South Devon’s coast is calling. If you fall a bit too much in love with the river views and retro seafront, consider making the stay longer. That’s where Fresh Escapes steps in, offering a handpicked selection of holiday homes, cottages, and unique stays in Teignmouth and beyond.
Why limit yourself to a quick Teignmouth to Exeter return when you could unwind by the sea for days? Book with Fresh Escapes, leave the city behind, and turn that day trip into a proper escape.
