Quick Answer
The fastest and most convenient way from Exeter Airport (EXT) to Exeter St Davids railway station is by taxi or pre-booked private transfer, taking about 15-20 minutes and costing £25-£40. The cheapest option is the Stagecoach public bus (e.g., number 56), costing around £2-£4 but taking 30-40 minutes, often requiring a change in the city centre. There is no direct train from the airport.
By Bus: The Budget-Friendly Public Transport Option
For solo travellers or those on a tight budget, the public bus is the most economical way to reach Exeter city centre and, subsequently, St Davids station. The service is operated by Stagecoach South West and provides a reliable link from the airport terminal.
Key Bus Route: The "Airport" Service (Number 56 & Others)
The primary bus service is often the number 56, branded as the âAirportâ bus. It connects the airport to Exeter City Centre (Bus Station and High Street).
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Operator | Stagecoach South West |
| Typical Route Number | 56 (Airport - City Centre - Whipton) |
| Frequency | Every 20-30 minutes during daytime, less frequent in evenings/Sundays. |
| Journey Time to City Centre | Approx. 25-35 minutes. |
| First/Last Bus from Airport* | Early morning (from ~6:00 AM) until late evening (~11:00 PM). *Always check current timetables. |
| Single Fare (Adult) | Approximately £2 - £4 (Cash or Contactless). Day tickets available. |
Step-by-Step Guide: Airport to St Davids via Bus
- Find the Bus Stop: Exit the airport terminal; the bus stop is directly outside, clearly signposted.
- Board the Bus: Take the bus (e.g., number 56) heading towards "Exeter City Centre" or "Exeter Bus Station".
- Payment: Pay the driver using contactless card/phone or cash. Ask for a "single to Exeter City Centre".
- Alight in the City Centre: Get off at either Exeter Bus Station or a central stop like the High Street.
- Final Leg to St Davids:
- On Foot: It's a 15-20 minute walk from the High Street/Bus Station to St Davids.
- By Connecting Bus/Local Train: From the Bus Station, you can catch another local bus or a short train from Exeter Central station (a 5-min walk from the bus station) to St Davids (1 stop, 3 mins).
Pros, Cons & Deep-Dive Analysis
Advantages: Extremely low cost; good daytime frequency; eco-friendly; no need to pre-book.
Disadvantages & Considerations:
- Not Direct to St Davids: Requires a walk or second connection, which is inconvenient with heavy luggage.
- Luggage Space: Limited to the bus's luggage hold. Can be problematic during peak times if full.
- Traffic Dependent: Journey time can double during Exeter's rush hours (7:30-9:30 AM, 4:30-6:30 PM).
- Late Night Arrivals: The bus service does not run 24/7. If your flight arrives very late, this is not an option.
Who Should Use It? Budget-conscious solo travellers or couples with one manageable suitcase arriving during daylight hours.
By Taxi or Private Transfer: The Door-to-Door Solution
For maximum convenience, especially with families, groups, or lots of luggage, a taxi or pre-booked car is the unequivocal best choice for travelling directly from the airport terminal to the train station forecourt.
Options & How to Book
- Airport Taxi Rank (Metered): Exit the terminal to find the official taxi rank. Fares are metered. Pros: Immediate, no pre-planning needed. Cons: Can be a queue; slightly more expensive than pre-booking.
- Pre-Booked Private Transfer (Fixed Price): Book online in advance with a local company. The driver meets you in arrivals with a name sign. Pros: Fixed price (no meter surprises), guaranteed availability, often cheaper than the rank. Cons: Requires planning ahead.
- Ride-Sharing Apps (Uber/Bolt): Available in Exeter. Use the app to request a car after you land. Pros: Transparent pricing, cashless. Cons: Driver meeting point may be in the short-stay car park, a short walk from the terminal.
Cost Breakdown & Journey Details
| Service Type | Estimated Cost (Daytime) | Estimated Cost (Night/Overnight) | Journey Time | Booking Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Taxi Rank | £30 - £35 | £35 - £45 | 15-20 mins | Walk-up |
| Pre-Booked Transfer | £25 - £32 | £30 - £40 | 15-20 mins | Online (e.g., Local Company) |
| Uber/Bolt | £22 - £30 (Surge Pricing Possible) | £30 - £40 (Surge Pricing Likely) | 15-20 mins | Mobile App |
Important Note: The journey is a straightforward drive via the A30 or local roads. Always confirm the fixed price with a pre-booked company or check the estimated fare in your ride-share app before confirming the ride.
By Rental Car or Ride-Share
While not a direct transfer method, some travellers may pick up a rental car at the airport or be meeting someone.
Driving Directions & Parking at St Davids
The Drive: The route is simple. Exit the airport following signs for the A30 towards Exeter. Leave the A30 at the sign for Exeter Central/St Davids. Follow signs for the station. The drive is approximately 5-6 miles.
Parking at Exeter St Davids: The station has a large pay-and-display car park. According to Great Western Railway, charges apply 24/7. For short drop-offs, there is a free, limited-time waiting area directly outside the station entrance.
Analysis: Renting a car just for this transfer is inefficient and expensive. This option is only relevant if you are starting a wider Devon/Cornwall road trip immediately upon arrival.
Cost & Time Comparison: Choosing Your Best Option
This table summarises all key data to help you make an informed decision at a glance.
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (One Way) | Total Journey Time | Direct to St Davids Station? | Best For... | Our Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Private Transfer | £25 - £40 | 15-20 mins | YES | Families, groups, heavy luggage, late arrivals, convenience seekers. | â BEST for Speed & Convenience |
| Public Bus (Stagecoach) | £2 - £4 | 30-40 mins (+ walk/transfer) | NO | Solo travellers, backpackers, budget travellers arriving in daylight. | â BEST for Budget |
| Rental Car (Drop-off) | £40+ (rental + fuel + parking) | 15-20 mins | YES | Those beginning a longer driving tour. | Not recommended for transfer only. |
| Ride-Share (Uber) | £22 - £40 | 15-20 mins | YES | Travellers comfortable with apps, good for 1-3 people. | Good alternative to taxis, price can fluctuate. |
Traveler Tips & Local Advice for a Smooth Journey
Beyond the schedules and fares, here is practical advice from local knowledge and frequent travellers.
1. Luggage Strategy is Key
- If Taking the Bus: Pack light. One wheeled suitcase and a backpack is manageable. Avoid large, heavy suitcases.
- Consider Luggage Forwarding: If you have excessive luggage and are continuing by train, services like Send My Bag can ship it directly to your UK destination, allowing you to travel to the station hands-free.
2. Timing Your Arrival
- Flight Delays: If you pre-book a taxi/transfer, use a reputable company that tracks your flight arrival time for free waiting.
- Peak Train Times: If you're connecting to a long-distance train from St Davids, allow ample buffer time (at least 60-90 minutes from your flight landing) to clear baggage, travel to the station, and find your platform.
3. Connectivity & Information
- Free Airport WiFi: Use Exeter Airport's free WiFi to check live bus times (Google Maps, Stagecoach app) or book a ride-share.
- Information Desk: The airport information desk can provide current bus timetables and recommend local taxi firms.
4. Accessibility Needs
Both airport buses and taxis are generally wheelchair-accessible, but it's crucial to:
- For Buses: Check with Stagecoach for specific accessibility on the Airport route.
- For Taxis/Transfers: Pre-book and explicitly request a wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV) to guarantee availability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there a direct train from Exeter Airport to Exeter St Davids?
No, there is no direct train service from Exeter Airport (EXT) to Exeter St Davids station. The airport does not have its own train station. You must first take a bus, taxi, or other road transport to Exeter Central or Exeter St Davids station itself, where you can then connect to national rail services.
What is the cheapest way to get from Exeter Airport to the city centre?
The cheapest way is the Stagecoach Bus service, typically the number 56 or 'Airport' bus. A single adult ticket costs around £2-£4 (subject to change), making it significantly cheaper than a taxi. It's a public bus service, so it's ideal for budget travellers without heavy luggage.
How long does the bus from Exeter Airport to St Davids take?
The bus journey from Exeter Airport to Exeter St Davids station takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. The bus goes via the city centre (Exeter Central), so if you are going directly to St Davids, you will need to account for a short walk or a second bus from the city centre.
How much is a taxi from Exeter Airport to Exeter St Davids?
A taxi or pre-booked private transfer from Exeter Airport to Exeter St Davids station typically costs between £25 and £40. The price varies based on the time of day (late-night fares are higher), the taxi company, and the amount of luggage. It's the most expensive but also the most direct and convenient option.
Can I use contactless payment on the bus from the airport?
Yes, you can use contactless debit/credit cards or mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) on Stagecoach buses from Exeter Airport. You can also pay with cash, but exact change is appreciated. It's recommended to check the latest fares on the Stagecoach website before travelling.
What is the best option if I have a lot of luggage?
If you have a lot of or heavy luggage, the best option is a pre-booked private transfer or taxi. While buses have luggage space, it can be limited during busy periods, and you'll need to manage your bags on and off the bus. A taxi offers a door-to-door service without the hassle of hauling luggage through bus stops or streets.
Is the bus service from Exeter Airport reliable?
The Stagecoach bus service from Exeter Airport is generally reliable and runs frequently throughout the day. However, like all road transport, it can be delayed by heavy traffic, especially during peak commuter hours in Exeter. It's wise to check live departure times using apps like Google Maps or the Stagecoach app before your journey.
Where do I catch the bus at Exeter Airport?
The bus stop at Exeter Airport is located directly outside the main terminal building. As you exit the arrivals hall, you will see clearly marked bus stops for the Stagecoach services, including the number 56 to the city centre. It's very convenient and just a short walk from baggage reclaim.