Route: Exeter – Sidmouth – Honiton
Operator: Stagecoach South West
Typical Frequency: Hourly (Mon-Sat), every 2 hours (Sun)
Journey Time: Approx. 90 minutes (End-to-End)
Imagine a single journey that takes you from the bustling heart of a Roman city, through rolling green valleys, directly to the dramatic red cliffs of a World Heritage Site, and finishes in the antique capital of the South West. The Stagecoach Route 9 isn’t just a commuter service; it’s a curated tour of East Devon’s finest landscapes, offering a stress-free way to explore the region without touching a steering wheel.
Whether you are a local looking for a weekend escape or a visitor wanting to see the famous Jurassic Coast without the headache of seaside parking, the ‘9’ is your ticket to adventure.
What makes this route special?
The beauty of Route 9 lies in its variety. In just over an hour, the scenery shifts dramatically three times. You start with the urban energy of Exeter, transition into the lush tranquility of the Otter Valley, and arrive at the salty air of the English Channel in Sidmouth.
Unlike many coastal routes that stick strictly to the shoreline, the 9 cuts a vital artery through the countryside, connecting the coast to the inland market town of Honiton. This makes it a “best of both worlds” service—perfect for walkers who want to tackle a section of the South West Coast Path and return via a different town.
A journey through East Devon
The route begins in Exeter, a city that effortlessly blends ancient history with modern vibrancy. Boarding at the bus station, you’ll head out through Heavitree, Exeter, a lively suburb that quickly gives way to the city’s edge.
As you pass Sowton, Exeter, the landscape opens up. The bus crosses the M5 bridge, and suddenly, you are in the countryside. The stop at Clyst St Mary places you near the Westpoint Arena, and as you continue past Farringdon, you might spot families hopping off for Crealy Theme Park nearby.
The scenery becomes greener and more rolling as you enter Newton Poppleford. This village sits on the River Otter and is a fantastic starting point for river walks. But for many, the main event is next: the descent into Sidmouth.
As the bus winds down towards the coast, you are greeted by the Regency charm of Sidmouth. The route drops you right in the Triangle, a short stroll from the Esplanade and those iconic red Triassic cliffs. It’s the perfect place to grab a cream tea or walk along the pebble beach.
But the journey doesn’t end at the sea. The bus heads inland again, passing through Sidford—home to the famous “Byes” riverside park—and into the postcard-perfect village of Sidbury. With its thatched cottages and historic church, Sidbury feels like stepping back in time.
Finally, the bus climbs over the hills, offering sweeping views of the glorious East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, before descending into Honiton. Famous for its lace and pottery, this bustling market town is the northern terminus and a treasure trove for antique hunters.
Practical information
Tickets and Value
Bus travel in the UK is currently exceptional value. With the national fare cap in place (currently capped at £3 for a single journey as of 2025), a trip from Exeter to the coast is significantly cheaper than the cost of fuel and parking in Sidmouth, where spaces are gold dust in summer.
For families or those making multiple stops, a Stagecoach DayRider ticket is often the best choice, allowing unlimited hop-on, hop-off travel all day across the network. You can buy tickets from the driver using contactless payment or cash (though exact change is appreciated), or via the Stagecoach Bus App.
Frequency
The Route 9 service generally runs hourly from Monday to Saturday, making it reliable for day trips. On Sundays and public holidays, the service usually runs every two hours, so it is worth checking the timetable in advance.
The Bus
This route is frequently operated by double-decker buses. For the best experience, head straight to the top deck and grab the front seat. The views as you descend into the Sid Valley are unrivaled!
Planning your day out
The “Coast and Culture” Loop
- Morning: Start in Exeter for a coffee and a look at the Cathedral. Hop on the 9 around 10:00 AM.
- Lunch: Arrive in Sidmouth. Walk the Connaught Gardens and enjoy a seafood lunch on the seafront.
- Afternoon: Take the 9 to Sidbury for a quick wander around the thatched village, or continue to Honiton to browse the antique shops.
- Evening: Catch the train back to Exeter from Honiton for a circular trip, or ride the 9 back to watch the sunset over the fields.
The Walker’s One-Way
- Take the bus to Newton Poppleford.
- Walk the beautiful riverside path along the River Otter all the way to the mouth of the river at Budleigh Salterton, or join the footpath that leads into Sidmouth.
- Reward yourself with an ice cream in Sidmouth before catching the 9 bus home.
Top tips for the journey
- Check the Number: Be careful at Exeter Bus Station. You want the 9 (Exeter-Sidmouth-Honiton). The 9A also goes to Sidmouth but splits off to Seaton instead of Honiton. If you are only going as far as Sidmouth, you can take either!
- Sit on the Left: When travelling from Exeter towards Sidmouth, sitting on the left-hand side of the bus often gives you the best glimpses of the approaching coastline.
- Market Days: If you are heading to Honiton, try to go on a Tuesday or Saturday when the lively street market is in full swing.
Why this route matters
The Jurassic Coast 9 is more than a transit link; it’s a sustainable key to the region. By choosing the bus, you’re helping to reduce congestion in the narrow streets of ancient towns like Sidbury and Sidmouth. You’re also giving yourself the freedom to gaze out of the window at the rolling Devon hills rather than staring at the bumper of the car in front.
So pack your walking boots, grab your contactless card, and let Stagecoach whisk you away to the coast.
