If you are looking to escape the bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the rolling hills and timeless villages of Mid Devon, the Stagecoach South West Route 5C is your perfect ticket to tranquility. Stretching from the vibrant city of Exeter to the Saxon hilltop town of Chulmleigh, this route offers a genuine slice of Devonshire life, far removed from the typical tourist trails.
Whether you are a local looking for a relaxing day out or a visitor wanting to see the “real” Devon, the 5C connects you to historic market towns, award-winning country pubs, and stunning rural landscapes.
What makes this route special
The 5C isn’t just a commuter service; it’s a journey through the Creedy and Taw valleys. As the bus leaves the urban environment behind, you are quickly transported into a landscape of patchwork fields, red soil, and thatched cottages.
What sets this route apart is its destination. While many visitors flock to the coast, the 5C heads north-west into the agricultural heartland. It traces the path of the famous Tarka Line railway for much of the journey, offering similar views but with the flexibility to hop off in the village centres that the train often bypasses. The route culminates in Chulmleigh, a hidden gem of a town that feels wonderfully untouched by time.
A journey through Mid Devon
The route begins at Exeter Bus Station and winds its way out of the city, passing the historic Exeter St Davids railway station. As you climb comfortably out of the Exe Valley, you’ll pass through Duryard. This area marks the transition from city to country, offering elevated views back towards the cathedral city before the greenery takes over.
The cider country
First on the rural itinerary is Newton St Cyres. Famous for its cheese and cider heritage, this village is a quintessential Devon stop. The bus drops you perfectly for a visit to the Arboretum or a meal at one of the county’s most celebrated pubs, The Beer Engine, which sits right next to the railway station.
The market town hub
The bus then rolls into Crediton, a bustling market town with a rich history. The striking red sandstone Parish Church of the Holy Cross dominates the view. The high street here is lively and packed with independent cafes and shops, making it a great place to pause your journey.
Into the hills
Beyond Crediton, the 5C splits from the main trunk routes. After passing the historic cross at Copplestone, the landscape becomes wilder and more dramatic. You’ll travel through Morchard Road and Lapford, villages that cling to the valley sides. This section of the route offers some of the best window-gazing opportunities, with views stretching across the Taw Valley.
Before the final stop, the bus serves Chawleigh, a peaceful village with incredible views of Dartmoor in the distance on a clear day. Finally, you arrive in Chulmleigh.
When does the route run?
The 5C is part of the wider “5” network (which includes the 5, 5A, and 5B), but the 5C specifically serves the full route to Chulmleigh.
- Monday to Saturday: The 5C runs roughly every 2 hours during the daytime.
- Sundays and Bank Holidays: It is important to note that the 5C leg to Chulmleigh typically does not run on Sundays (though the main 5 service to Crediton does).
Because the frequency is lower than inner-city routes, checking the timetable before you travel is essential. The reliable 2-hour interval makes it easy to plan a morning outward trip and an afternoon return.
Tickets and value for money
Travelling on the 5C is excellent value, especially given the distance covered.
- Fare Cap: At the time of writing, the national £2 single fare cap is in place, meaning you can travel from Exeter all the way to Chulmleigh for just £2.
- DayRider Tickets: If you plan to hop on and off (perhaps stopping at Crediton for lunch and then continuing to Chulmleigh), a Stagecoach DayRider ticket is your best option. You will likely need the “Explorer” zone ticket if travelling the full length, but check with the driver or the Stagecoach app.
- Contactless: All Stagecoach buses accept contactless card payments and Apple/Google Pay, so there is no need to hunt for exact change.
Planning a day out on this route
Here is a suggested itinerary for a relaxed Saturday exploring the route:
- 09:15 – Depart Exeter: Catch a morning 5C from Exeter Bus Station. Grab a window seat on the right-hand side for the best valley views as you head north.
- 10:30 – Explore Chulmleigh: Arrive in Chulmleigh. Spend a couple of hours walking the cobbles of this Saxon hilltop town. Visit the impressive St Mary Magdalene Church and admire the thatched cottages.
- 12:30 – Lunch: Enjoy a hearty pub lunch at The Red Lion or The Old Court House in Chulmleigh, or grab a pasty from the local bakery.
- 13:45 – Return journey (with a stop): Catch the bus back towards Exeter, but hop off at Crediton.
- 14:30 – Afternoon in Crediton: Browse the independent bookshops and antique stores on the high street.
- 16:30 – Back to the City: Catch any number 5 bus (they are very frequent from Crediton) back to Exeter in time for dinner.
Top tips for the journey
- Check the return: Since the 5C runs every two hours from Chulmleigh, make sure you know exactly when your return bus is due. You don’t want to wait two hours for the next one!
- The “5” Family: Remember that while the 5C goes to Chulmleigh, the 5, 5A, and 5B go to different destinations after Crediton. Always check the blind on the front of the bus says “Chulmleigh”.
- Sit back and relax: The roads north of Crediton can be narrow and winding. Let the professional driver handle the tight squeezes while you enjoy the high hedges and rolling vistas.
- Walking shoes: If you get off at Lapford or Eggesford (nearby), you are close to the Tarka Trail. Bring your walking boots if you fancy a hike between stops.
Year-round appeal
While the route is stunning in summer when the Devon banks are full of wildflowers, it has a distinct charm in the cooler months too. The cozy pubs in Newton St Cyres and Chulmleigh offer roaring fires and warm welcomes, making the 5C a great option for a winter Saturday outing. Just remember that daylight fades early in the deep valleys, so plan your scenic viewing for the outbound trip!
