Exmouth is the ideal place to explore on your bike whilst being both mentally and physically beneficial. Why not leave your car behind, pack a picnic and take the family on adventure.
Exe Estuary Trail
Is an exceptionally beautiful cycle route which runs along both sides of the Exe Estuary, connecting Exmouth and Dawlish Warren to Exeter Quay. The pathway has been developed and constructed by Devon County Council as part of the National Cycle Network Route 2. Starting in Exmouth the path leads alongside the Exe Estuary, which has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), a Special Protection Area (SPA), a Ramsar Site (internationally important area for birdlife) and is a candidate Special Area of Conservation.
The path takes you first to the picturesque village of Lympstone, then on to Exton, then Topsham with its cafes, boutiques and antique shops, push onto Countess Weir. From here you can choose to head further up the river to Exeter Quay for bars, cafes, arts and craft shops. or alternatively you can head back down river, first following the canal to Turf Locks Hotel, then picking up the river again as you cycle past Powderham Castle, historic home of the Earl of Devon, then on to Starcross and then Dawlish.
Across the water a popular route is to cycle from Starcross to Exeter Quay, take the ferry home to Exmouth via the Star Cross Ferry. Further up the Estuary, smaller ferries run from Topsham to the Turf Locks or a hand operated ferry can take you from the canal, over the river into Topsham or back, the choice is yours, depending on your fitness and the time available.
Exmouth to Budleigh Old Railway Line
Heading east out of Exmouth, the cycle path takes you along the old railway line to Budleigh Salterton. This path takes you through traditional Devonshire countryside and woodland, before you arrive in the picture postcard town of Budleigh Salterton, with its famous pebble beach. Crab sandwiches on the beach are a local favourite.
Find out more on these trails here…
Mountain Bike Trails
Alternatively, cut off before you reach Budleigh Salterton and head up onto the Common. Five minutes from the cycle path and you are in an off-road playground that takes you over miles of open countryside, with miles of rough paths and tracks to be explored. This is not the gentle cycle of the estuary path or Budleigh path and will only suit the fit and adventurous, but the scenery will match the adrenaline all the way!
So when you plan your Exmouth visit, remember to bring your bike, or better still take advantage of one of the friendly cycle hire shops in the town. They will be delighted to give advice on the best routes to make the most of your two-wheeled visit to Exmouth.
On yer bike top tips
- Need help finding your way around town by bike? The Tourist Information can provide maps yo help you find the best route from A to B.
- Active Travel Exmouth is a local group dedicated to cycling and walking, visit their website gettingaroundexmouth.org to find out more about cycling in Exmouth.