Trial brings new night-time bus services to Exeter

Late-night travel in Exeter is about to get safer and more affordable as Stagecoach South West launches a series of new Night Bus routes from this weekend.

Starting Saturday 31 May 2025, four new overnight services will operate out of Exeter City Centre, running into the early hours of Sunday morning. These buses are part of a wider initiative across Devon to reduce anti-social behaviour and support the city’s growing night-time economy.

The new services are being delivered in partnership with Devon and Cornwall Police and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, with a trial period running until 20 December 2025.

Commissioner Alison Hernandez added:

“I am delighted that my office will once again fund this fantastic service and help even more people get home safely after a night out. Night buses in Devon have already proven effective in reducing crime and making people feel safer.”

Exeter Night Bus Routes:

• Service 1A (Exeter – Cullompton):
  Departs Exeter (Paris Street) at 12.10am, 1.40am, 3.10am
  Returns from Cullompton at 12.55am, 2.25am, 3.55am

• Service 2 (Exeter – Dawlish):
  Departs Exeter (Cheeke Street) at 12.15am, 1.45am, 3.15am
  Returns from Dawlish at 1.01am, 2.31am

• Service 5 (Exeter – Crediton):
  Departs Exeter (Paris Street) at 12.20am, 1.50am, 3.20am
  Returns from Crediton at 12.49am, 2.19am, 3.49am

• Service 57 (Exeter – Exmouth):
  Departs Exeter (Cheeke Street) at 12.05am, 1.35am, 3.05am
  Returns from Exmouth at 12.45am, 2.15am, 3.45am

Each of the new routes will operate every Saturday night.

The trial aims to give people a reliable alternative to taxis or driving, particularly after a night out, while also contributing to efforts to tackle drink- and drug-related offences, especially those affecting women and girls.

The initiative builds on earlier success in North Devon and Torquay, where similar services saw an increase in passenger numbers and a reduction in night-time incidents.