Is Exeter far from Enfield?

It is about 190 miles away, taking around 4 hours by car.

Are there direct trains?

No, you must change in London to reach Exeter.

Is it better to drive or take the train?

The train is more relaxing for such a long distance.

What is the best time to visit?

Summer is ideal for exploring the city and the nearby coast.

Can I visit the cathedral in a day?

Yes, it is a perfect day trip from London.

Enfield

Exeter

Train Driving

Enfield to Exeter

Updated: 30 May 2026

Exeter, the historic capital of Devon, is accessible from Enfield via London Paddington. The rail journey is direct from Paddington to Exeter St Davids, covering approximately 190 miles. Whether you are visiting for the cathedral or the nearby coast, the journey is well-serviced by the Great Western Railway and the M5 motorway.

Total Distance: 295 km driving distance; 260 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Train, taking approximately 3 hours 30 minutes including the London transfer.

Cheapest Way

Advance train tickets booked online are the most cost-effective.

Compare Enfield to Exeter Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	3 hours 30 mins	4 hours
Avg Price	£50 - £120	£60 - £90 fuel
Operator	Great Western Railway	N/A
Route	Enfield Town to London Liverpool Street, transfer to Paddington, then direct to Exeter St Davids.	A10 to M25, M4, then M5 Southbound, exiting at Junction 29.
Tip	Book Advance tickets early to secure the best prices for this long-distance journey.	The M5 can be very busy during summer holidays; plan for extra travel time.

Travel Tips

Station Choice
Exeter St Davids is the main station; Exeter Central is closer to the city centre.
Railcard Savings
Use a Railcard to save one-third on your long-distance train fare.
Traffic Planning
Avoid the M5 on Friday afternoons and Saturday mornings during summer.
Walking City
Exeter is compact and easy to explore on foot.
Advance Booking
Book your train tickets at least 12 weeks ahead for the best deals.

Safety Tips

Driving Safety
Take regular breaks on the long drive to Exeter to stay alert.
Personal Security
Keep your belongings secure in busy areas like the city centre.
Emergency Help
Dial 999 for any emergencies; the city is generally very safe.
Weather Awareness
Devon weather can change quickly; pack layers for outdoor activities.