Is there a direct train from Salcombe?

No, Salcombe does not have a railway station; you must travel to Totnes first.

How long is the drive?

The drive typically takes 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Are there tolls on this route?

No, there are no toll roads between Salcombe and Honiton.

Yes, but it requires multiple changes and takes over 4 hours.

Yes, the drive through the South Hams is very picturesque.

Salcombe

Train Driving

Salcombe to Honiton

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Salcombe to Honiton covers approximately 85 kilometers through the heart of South Devon. Driving is the most practical method, utilizing the A381 and A38 expressways. Expect a travel time of roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes depending on traffic near Exeter. Public transport requires a bus to Totnes followed by a train, which is significantly slower. This route transitions from the rugged coastline to the rolling hills of the Blackdown Hills AONB.

Total Distance: 85 km driving distance; 62 km straight-line distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the A38 and A30 is the fastest, taking under 2 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective for groups or families.

Compare Salcombe to Honiton Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	3 hours	1 hour 45 mins
Avg Price	25-35 GBP	15-20 GBP in fuel
Operator	Great Western Railway	Personal Vehicle
Route	Bus to Totnes Station, train to Exeter St Davids, change for Honiton.	A381 to Totnes, then A38 towards Exeter, merging onto A30.
Tip	Book tickets in advance via the GWR app for significant savings.	Avoid the A38 during morning rush hour near Exeter to save 20 minutes.

Travel Tips

Parking
Use the Lace Walk car park for central access to Honiton shops.
Road Conditions
The A381 is narrow in sections; drive with caution near sharp bends.
Train Booking
Use a Railcard to reduce your fare by one-third on GWR services.
Traffic
Exeter bypass can be congested; check live traffic apps before departing.
Fuel
Fill up in Salcombe or Totnes as fuel is cheaper than on the A30.

Safety Tips

Night Driving
Country lanes lack street lighting; use high beams carefully.
Weather
Devon roads can flood quickly during heavy rain; avoid flooded dips.
Emergency
Keep a mobile power bank as signal drops in rural valleys.
Breakdown
Carry a high-visibility vest if you need to exit your vehicle on the A38.