In 1673, how long did it take to travel by stage coach between London and Exeter in the UK?

In 1673, when the stage coach service was introduced between the cities of London and Exeter (Devon, UK), it took an incredible eight days to travel the 158 miles. Today, driving or by train would take less than 4 hours.

The main problem in the 17th century was the very poor state of the roads which, together with non existent suspension of the coaches themselves, meant that the vehicles travelled at a very slow speed. Horses were changed at regular intervals, generally at coaching inns, some of which still exist. Passengers took meal breaks whilst the horses were changed, and overnight accommodation was also part of the coaching inn offering.