Improving the Tarka line

Update: Due to the coronavirus, we have changed our train/bus operations. Replacement buses will now run between Barnstaple and Exeter St Davids (instead of Crediton) between Monday 30 March and Saturday 4 April.

In December we launched an improved timetable on the Tarka line featuring an hourly service throughout the day between Exeter Central and Barnstaple. We also introduced newer trains to the line, improving capacity and comfort.

Between Monday 30 March and Saturday 4 April, Network Rail is upgrading the track between Barnstaple and Exeter St Davids. This will provide a smoother, more comfortable journey and improve reliability on this important route.

  • buses will replace trains between Barnstaple and Exeter St Davids
  • a separate bus will serve Yeoford, running to/from Crediton

Barnstaple

Our travel advice

  • plan ahead – bus times will be different to normal train times. Check carefully before you travel
  • allow plenty of time – journeys involving a replacement bus will take longer than normal
  • know where to catch the bus – at some locations, our replacement buses will stop away from the station
  • travelling to/from Yeoford – a separate shuttle bus will run between Yeoford and Crediton. Change at Crediton for onward connections

Replacement buses

Arrival and departure times at Crediton will be timed to connect with the connecting buses to Yeoford, ensuring journey times are kept to a minimum.

Where do I catch the replacement bus?

Station Buses to Barnstaple Buses to Crediton
Barnstaple N/A The front of the station
Chapelton The lay-by opposite the station approach road The station approach road entrance
Umberleigh The station forecourt The station forecourt
Portsmouth Arms Opposite the Portsmouth Arms public house Outside the Portsmouth Arms public house
Kings Nympton The station approach road entrance Fortescue Cross - junction with the B3226
Eggesford The front of the station The front of the station
Lapford Lapford Cross – junction with Kelland Hill Lapford Cross - junction with Popes Lane
Morchard Road The bus lay-by opposite the Devonshire Dumpling public house Outside the Devonshire Dumpling public house
Copplestone The northbound bus stop on the one-way system, near the overbridge The Sunnyside bus stop on the one-way system, near the overbridge
Yeoford N/A Outside The Duck public house
Crediton Outside the Platform 1 station entrance Outside the Platform 1 station entrance
Newton St Cyres N/A Bus stop in village centre
Exeter St Davids Front of the station N/A

Help with your journey

It’s best to let us know in advance if you need help. To find out more, visit our Passenger Assist page.

If you are not able to travel on one of our replacement bus services, an accessible taxi can be arranged for you free of charge. You can do this by:

  • booking in advance using our Passenger Assist form online
  • speaking to a member of staff at the station
  • using the Help Point available at all our stations
  • Frequently asked questions