Getting Around Devon

One of the best ways to get around Devon is to use the extensive public transport network, the region is serviced by bus, train and coach networks, as well as private car hire and taxi services.

Railways

Lower your carbon footprint and enjoy the view by planning the day out using the bus or the train. The railways are a wonderfully scenic way to travel around the county with many of the picturesque villages and market towns being linked by rail and mainline stations can be found in the larger towns and cities. The railway has uncompromised views of the coastline, particularly through the English Riviera and across Dartmoor.

Great Western Railway (GWR) operate a number of journeys across Devon from over 270 destinations by train. Direct, high speed services from Paddington stop at Tiverton, Exeter St David’s, Newton Abbot, Totnes and Plymouth. Special one day tickets offer a great deal for visitors, plus other tickets and promotions give you the freedom of the many picturesque lines such as the Tarka Line, Tamar Valley Line and Avocet Line.

To take advantage of free WiFi, plug sockets and complimentary refreshments, travel First Class allowing you to really sit back and relax.

Find out more about travelling around Devon via GWR here.

The Dartmoor Line

After almost 50 years, the Dartmoor Line has been reopened. With a journey time of approximately 40 minutes to reach Exeter St Davids, The Dartmoor Line will provide easy access between Okehampton and Exeter. 

The initial Dartmoor Line timetable (to start by the end of 2021) will provide:

• Trains every two hours each way, seven days a week, between Okehampton, Crediton and Exeter St Davids, including services for daily commuters.

• Approximately half of the daily Monday to Friday services will be extended to and from Exeter Central, including the key peak services.

• At a later date weekend services to be extended to and from Exeter Central where possible.

Find out more about The Dartmoor Line here.

Bus Routes

The bus service is extensive across Devon with plenty of chances to link to smaller routes. To download the most recent bus timetables and maps, visit the Devon County Council website.

Car hire

If you would rather drive yourself around Devon, you can hire a car from a number of reputable businesses in the county. Many of these firms have bases at mainline train stations and also at Exeter airport.

Taxis are also readily available all over the county. Your accommodation provider should be able to provide details of local firms, should you need transport.

Coach travel

There are National Express and MegaBus stops all across the county, linking you to a number of major UK towns and cities as well as various locations across Devon.

Cycling

Cycling is a great way to see Devon at its best and provide you with easy access to some of the best of the county’s natural heritage as well as a way to explore the various Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Devon has a host of wonderful cycle routes, many of which are connected to the main cycle network and ranging in length and difficulty.

You can find out more about cycing in Devon here.