Is there a direct train from Skye to Exeter?

No, you must change trains at least twice, usually in Inverness and London.

How long does the drive take?

Expect 15 hours of pure driving time, excluding breaks.

Are there flights available?

You could fly from Inverness to London and then take a train, but it is rarely faster than rail.

What is the best route by car?

Follow the A87 to the A82, then join the M74 south towards the M6 and M5.

Is the train journey scenic?

The section from Kyle of Lochalsh to Inverness is one of the most beautiful rail lines in the world.

Sligachan

Exeter

Train Driving

Sligachan to Exeter

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Sligachan to Exeter spans approximately 1200 km, requiring a multi-modal approach. You must first travel by bus or car to Kyle of Lochalsh station. From there, take the ScotRail service to Inverness, followed by LNER or Avanti West Coast trains to London. Finally, transfer at London Paddington for the GWR service to Exeter St Davids. This route traverses the entire length of the UK, offering diverse landscapes from Highland glens to the rolling hills of Devon.

Total Distance: 1200 km driving distance, 850 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving, taking approximately 15 hours depending on traffic on the M6 and M5.

Cheapest Way

Train, if booked as Advance tickets well ahead of travel date.

Compare Sligachan to Exeter Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	14 hours	15 hours
Avg Price	150-300 GBP	200-350 GBP (fuel)
Operator	ScotRail, LNER, GWR	N/A
Route	Kyle of Lochalsh to Inverness, then London to Exeter.	A87, A82, M74, M6, M5.
Tip	Book your tickets via Trainline at least 12 weeks in advance for the best fares.	Ensure your vehicle is serviced before this long haul; the A82 through Glencoe is scenic but demanding.

Travel Tips

Advance Booking
Always book train tickets in advance to avoid peak-time pricing on long-distance routes.
Rest Stops
If driving, plan stops at Tebay Services on the M6; it is widely considered the best motorway service station in the UK.
Luggage
Keep luggage manageable as you will have multiple platform changes in London.
Connectivity
Download offline maps for the Scottish Highlands as mobile signal is intermittent on the A87.
Weather
Pack waterproof clothing regardless of the season, as Highland weather changes rapidly.

Safety Tips

Driving Fatigue
Take a 15-minute break every two hours to maintain focus on long motorway stretches.
Road Conditions
Check Traffic Scotland for updates on the A87, especially during winter months.
Station Safety
Keep your belongings close at busy London terminals like Euston or Paddington.
Emergency
Save the number for local breakdown services if you are driving your own vehicle.