Devon’s countryside is legendary for its rolling hills, ancient hedgerows, and deep green valleys, but you don’t need a car to explore it. One of the most reliable and enjoyable ways to escape the bustle of the city is on the Crediton 5, operated by Stagecoach South West. Running frequently between the cathedral city of Exeter and the historic market town of Crediton, this route offers a perfect slice of Devonian life, blending convenience with genuine scenic charm.
Whether you are a local commuter or a visitor looking to explore beyond the city walls, the 5 offers a stress-free journey through the Creedy Valley. With buses running up to every 20 minutes, there’s no need for rigid planning—just turn up, hop on, and enjoy the ride.
Why this route is special
There is something uniquely relaxing about the journey along the A377. As you leave Exeter behind, the urban landscape quickly gives way to the lush, open pastures of Mid Devon. The route roughly follows the path of the River Creedy and runs parallel to the famous Tarka Line railway, offering passengers on the bus—especially those lucky enough to snag a front seat on the top deck—sweeping views that car drivers simply can’t appreciate safely.
This isn’t just a commuter shuttle; it’s a corridor connecting a vibrant city, a university haven, a foodie village, and a town steeped in Saxon history. It’s the perfect “hop-on, hop-off” style adventure for anyone who appreciates good food, great views, and a bit of history.
Leaving the city behind
The journey begins in the heart of Exeter. Departing from the bus station, the route winds its way out of the city centre, offering a brief tour of Exeter’s lively streets. As you head north, you pass close to St David’s Station and begin the climb towards the university area.
This section serves Duryard, Exeter, a leafy and picturesque area dominated by the University of Exeter’s rolling campus grounds. It’s a transition zone where the city feels less like an urban sprawl and more like a garden. The bus soon descends towards Cowley Bridge, a historic crossing point over the River Exe. Here, the road splits, and the 5 peels away towards the countryside, leaving the main city traffic behind.
A foodie stop in Newton St Cyres
The first major village on the route is a hidden gem for food lovers. Newton St Cyres might look like a sleepy village from the window, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to gastronomy and charm.
The bus stops centrally, making it easy to explore. Right on the route, you’ll find Belluno, a highly-rated Italian restaurant that’s perfect for a lunch stop. However, the real star of the village for many is Quicke’s Farm Shop, located just a short stroll from the bus stop. The Quicke family has been tending this land for centuries, and their cloth-bound cheddar is world-famous. It’s a fantastic place to pick up a picnic lunch or some edible souvenirs.
For those willing to stretch their legs, a walk down the hill towards the railway station reveals The Beer Engine, one of Devon’s most beloved pubs. Housed in a 19th-century railway hotel, it serves excellent craft ales and hearty food. Just remember, the walk back up to the bus stop is steep, so pace yourself!
Arrival in historic Crediton
The route terminates in Crediton, a lively market town with a distinct personality. As the bus cruises along the High Street, you’ll notice the striking red sandstone buildings that give the town its warm, inviting character.
Crediton is historically significant as the birthplace of St Boniface, the patron saint of Germany and the Netherlands, born here in 680 AD. You can feel this history at the magnificent Holy Cross Church. Often described as being “cathedral-like” due to its size and grandeur, it sits just off the High Street and is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
The town centre is bustling with independent shops, cosy cafes, and traditional pubs. Unlike many cloned high streets, Crediton retains a strong sense of local identity. The bus takes you right through the town, past the Town Square—which hosts an award-winning farmers’ market on select weekends—and ends at Tuckers Close, though you can hop off earlier at the High Street or the Green to be in the thick of things.
Practical information and tickets
One of the best things about the Crediton 5 is its frequency.
- Monday to Saturday: Buses run up to every 20 minutes during the day, meaning you never have to wait long.
- Sundays and Bank Holidays: The service usually runs hourly, which is still plenty for a relaxed day out.
Stagecoach South West offers excellent value for money. If you are just making a simple return journey, single tickets are affordable (often capped under government schemes, so check current prices). However, if you plan to hop off at Newton St Cyres and then continue to Crediton, a Dayrider ticket is your best friend. This allows unlimited travel on Stagecoach buses within the designated zone for the whole day, giving you total flexibility.
You can buy tickets directly from the driver using contactless payment (card or mobile), or cash if you have change. For the tech-savvy, the Stagecoach Bus App is highly recommended. It allows you to buy mobile tickets in advance and, crucially, track your bus in real-time on a map, so you know exactly when to finish your coffee and head to the stop.
Top tips for the journey
- Sit Upstairs: If you can, grab the front seat on the top deck. The A377 is a winding road with high hedgerows; being elevated gives you a clear view over them to the hills beyond.
- Check the Variant: While the route is generally the “5”, you might see 5A, 5B, or 5C. These buses also serve the Exeter to Crediton section before continuing further afield to places like Okehampton or Barnstaple. For the purpose of a trip to Crediton or Newton St Cyres, you can jump on any of them!
- Market Days: If you can, time your visit for the Crediton Farmers’ Market, held on the first and third Saturday of every month. It’s one of the best in the West Country.
Planning a day out on the 5
To make the most of this route, why not plan a “tasting trail” day trip?
- Morning: Start in Exeter and hop on the 5 around 10:00 AM.
- Stop 1: Alight at Newton St Cyres. Visit the Arboretum for a gentle morning walk among the trees, then head to Quicke’s Farm Shop to taste some cheese and buy supplies.
- Lunch: Either grab a table at Belluno or walk down to The Beer Engine for a pub lunch.
- Afternoon: Hop back on the bus (using your Dayrider ticket) and continue to Crediton. Spend the afternoon exploring the Holy Cross Church and browsing the independent bookshops and antique stores on the High Street.
- Evening: Enjoy a coffee or a pint in Crediton Town Square before catching the bus back to Exeter. The journey back in the late afternoon sun, watching the shadows lengthen over the Creedy Valley, is the perfect end to the day.
The Crediton 5 proves that you don’t need to travel far to feel like you’ve been on a journey. Reliable, scenic, and connecting some of Devon’s friendliest communities, it’s a route that turns a simple commute into a genuine pleasure.
