Exeter St Davids Train Station

Exeter is a deeply historic city, and Exeter St. David’s train station is no different. Having been originally designed by none other than Isambard Kingdom Brunel, Exeter St. David’s is steeped in the history of British railway and civil engineering. The station began operating in 1844, and over the last 170 years has seen many new additions, changes, and renovations. Brunel’s original design featured two platforms, both on the East side of the station for easy access to the city. As the station has expanded its services, new platforms have been added and the layout altered. Never fear, though – that Victorian and art-deco charm from previous designs is still visible in the main façade (1864), art-deco signage (1938), and the station’s frontage (1938).

Not only does Exeter St. David’s Station have a storied history of its own, but it has earned a place in the history of literary culture. On his way back from Exeter to London, after a visit to Agatha Christie, Allen Lane – a director of Bodley Head – noticed a gap in the market for cheap, but quality, books available to purchase at the train station. This is how Penguin, paperbacks were born, which were first sold in the summer of 1935.

Originally servicing the Bristol & Exeter Railway, the station now has trains operated by Great Western Railway, South Western Railway, and CrossCountry running each day. Popular CrossCountry routes running through Exeter St. David’s include Exeter to Plymouth, Plymouth to Aberdeen, Newton Abbot to Birmingham, Newton Abbot to Sheffield, and more.

Things to do in Exeter

Exeter is a city full of fun activities, fascinating history, and interesting cultural experiences – meaning that there are always plenty of options for what to do when you arrive. #1 on any tourist’s list should be a visit to Exeter Cathedral with nearly one thousand years of religious and cultural heritage. With stunningly beautiful architecture, the voices of choristers, and a sense of peace on offer, why not pay a visit to Exeter Cathedral?

If you’re lucky with the weather and don’t feel like being indoors, the pubs, restaurants, and boutique shops around Exeter Quay are the perfect place to have a nice stroll. With restored architecture and a nautical setting, this is an ideal spot to recharge with a cup of tea, a slice of cake, lunch, or maybe even a pint.

If you’re eager to soak up more history and culture, check out the Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery or take a tour of the secret underground passages all over the city. The Museum houses exhibits on ancient Egypt, natural history, and medicine, and hosts lectures, talks, and special events that cover a wide range of history. Exeter’s underground passages are unlike anything else in Britain, so make sure to check them out on your visit with a guided tour from local experts. From global antiquity to local heritage, Exeter has a lot for you to learn.

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