Exeter - London Paddington early morning service

[whole diary]

[ssg54]

Hi - am considering moving to the Exeter area and will be travelling to London a few times a week on the first train of the day out of Exeter to Paddington.  What is the service like for punctuality and passenger levels - i.e. do you get a seat?  Also, what is the cheapest way to park a car at or near Exeter St.Davids station? Any advice welcome. Thanks.

[Chris from Nailsea]

Welcome to the Coffee Shop forum, ssg54!

I'm sure some of our very knowledgeable members in the Exeter area will be able to help you with answers to your questions. 

(Unfortunately, I'm not an expert on the subject!)

Chris from Nailsea. 

[vacman]

I take it you mean the 0546?

[Super Guard]

You won't have any problems getting a seat on either the 0546 (arr 0838) or the fast 0651 (arr 0900).

I can't comment on punctuality, but I know that there was always pressure getting the 0651 on-time when leaving Taunton, otherwise it could clash with stoppers/freight around Westbury which could delay it as it has zero slack in the timings.  If you need guaranteed 0900 arrival every day, then the 0546 would probably be the way to go, but obviously an early start 

I'm not sure about exact Car Parking charges, there are 3 car parks operated by Apcoa at EXD^» (Exeter St Davids - next trains), the further of the 3 car parks from the Station (by the level crossing) is the cheapest.  Over the level crossing there is a car park on the left which is privately owned and offer cheaper rates/season tickets I think.

[devon_metro]

0900 arrival often tends to get delayed around Reading and through to Paddington. Certainly would never rely on it.