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As a result he signed for the Roddy Collins-managed Blues on a permanent basis in November 2002 after agreeing a two and half year contract that would see him through until the summer of 2005. After an initial good start to his Brunton Park career things never really took off for Farrell, as the team struggled desperately on the pitch, and he was released by then boss Paul Simpson at the end of his 30 month deal, having made 66 starts, plus 29 as a substitute, netting 24 goals in his time with the Cumbrians.
He then made a somewhat surprising move as he want all the way down to Devon, Exeter boss Alex Inglethorpe snapping him up on a one-year contract for the Grecians. Again, he started life well at St James' Park but his confidence started to wane once more as City fell away from top spot in the Conference table in December to finish in a lowly seventh place, eleven points off the play-off spots. That was the end of the line for Farrell in Devon sadly as he once more saw himself surplus to requirements, with manager Inglethorpe not renewing his contract at the end of the season, despite Craig scoring eight times in 26 starts.
York boss Billy McEwan then saw his chance to strengthen his forward line, after it was weakened by the loss of top scorer Andy Bishop to Bury late last season, and he swooped to bring the out-of-contract Farrell back nearer his native Middlesbrough. Farrell, now 23-years old, spoke to the York City club website about the move, commenting : " I am delighted to be joining York City. I've heard a lot of good things about the Club and Manager, Billy McEwan, and I hope I can be part of a successful campaign next season. "