Is there a direct train?

No, you must change at Exeter St Davids and Bristol Temple Meads.

How long is the drive?

It typically takes 3 hours and 15 minutes via the M5.

No, there are no tolls on this specific route.

What is the best road?

The A30 to M5 and M50 is the most reliable route.

National Express operates services, but they are significantly slower than driving.

Okehampton

Hereford

Train Driving

Okehampton to Hereford

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Okehampton to Hereford spans approximately 240 km through the heart of the West Country. Driving is the most efficient method, utilizing the A30 and M5 motorway northbound. Train travel requires a change at Exeter St Davids and Bristol Temple Meads. You will traverse the scenic landscapes of Somerset and Gloucestershire before entering the Wye Valley. This route connects the rugged Dartmoor edge to the historic cathedral city of Hereford.

Total Distance: 240 km driving distance, 195 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the M5 and M50 takes approximately 3 hours 15 minutes under normal traffic conditions.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest option if traveling with more than one person, costing roughly £40 in fuel.

Compare Okehampton to Hereford Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 45 mins	3 hours 15 mins
Avg Price	£60-£110	£35-£45 fuel
Operator	Great Western Railway	N/A
Route	Okehampton to Exeter, then GWR to Bristol, then Transport for Wales to Hereford.	A30 to M5, exit at J8 for M50 towards Ross-on-Wye.
Tip	Book tickets in advance via the GWR app to secure significant savings.	Avoid the M5 during Friday afternoon peak hours to bypass Bristol congestion.

Travel Tips

Check Traffic
Use the National Highways website to check for M5 roadworks before departing.
Parking
Use the Garrick multi-story car park for central access to Hereford shops.
Train Booking
Use a split-ticketing website to reduce the cost of your rail journey.
Footwear
Bring comfortable walking shoes for the historic cobbled streets of Hereford.
Local Cider
Sample local Herefordshire cider at one of the traditional pubs near the cathedral.

Safety Tips

M5 Congestion
Be prepared for heavy traffic near Bristol; keep a safe distance from heavy goods vehicles.
Rural Roads
When exiting the M50, rural roads can be narrow; drive slowly on blind bends.
Emergency Kit
Keep a high-visibility jacket and warning triangle in your boot for motorway breakdowns.
Weather
Check for flood warnings in the Wye Valley during winter months before traveling.