Exmouth is a beautiful seaside town in Devon, England, and is full of nature and history. There are plenty of wonderful walks and hikes to explore and discover.
From the dramatic cliffs of Orcombe Point to the tranquil Exe Estuary Trail, there’s something for everyone. I’ve put together a list of fifteen of the best walks in Exmouth, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll find something to suit your needs. So grab your walking boots and let’s explore the best walks in Exmouth.
Orcombe Point Walk
Taking a leisurely stroll along the Orcombe Point Walk is a great way to enjoy the picturesque views of Exmouth’s stunning coastline. The walk is around 4 miles in total and takes around two hours to complete.
It starts from the beach at Orcombe Point and follows the coastal path to the south, passing through the old World War II gun battery and around the stunning cliffs of Exmouth. The views of the sea and coastline are breathtaking and will make you want to linger and take in the sights.
Along the way, you will pass by many interesting sights, such as the red sandstone cliffs, the ancient Iron Age Hillfort, the old quarries, and the Pegwell Bay Nature Reserve.
The walk can be quite challenging due to the steep inclines and uneven terrain, but the rewards are definitely worth it.
Exe Estuary Trail
Encircling the picturesque Exe Estuary, the Exe Estuary Trail offers a stunningly scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Spanning 12 miles along the coastline, this walking route is perfect for those looking for a long leisurely walk, or a shorter circular route.
With a wide variety of wildlife to spot, you can expect to see an array of birds, fish, mammals, and even the occasional seal. You may even be lucky enough to spot the Exe Estuary’s famous otters in their natural habitat!
Along the way, you will pass through quaint towns and villages, with plenty of pubs, eateries, and shops to explore, as well as historic churches and monuments.
The trail also passes through several nature reserves and areas of outstanding natural beauty, so be sure to take your camera with you.
The Exe Estuary Trail is the perfect way to experience the beauty of the English countryside and its abundant wildlife.
Haldon Forest Park Walk
Haldon Forest Park offers a lush nature escape, with its diverse range of trails providing something for everyone; from leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes.
The park has over 3,500 acres of woodland, with an abundance of wildlife and beautiful views.
The trails range from easy-to-follow woodland paths to more technical single-track trails, perfect for the more experienced walker.
The park has a variety of routes that will take you on a circular walk, as well as a longer route, the Haldon Forest Trail, which is nearly 10 miles long.
The route takes you through the forest and provides stunning views of the surrounding area.
The route is well signposted and equipped with benches and picnic tables, making it perfect for a fun day out in nature.
Mamhead Park Walk
Experience the breathtaking sights of Mamhead Park as you take a stroll through its picturesque woodlands. Filled with rolling hills and lush fields, this is a great spot for a walk or a short hike.
You can explore many of its hidden trails, including the popular Four Mile Drive that takes you around the perimeter of the park. Along the way, you’ll see a variety of wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and pheasants. You can also get a closer look at the park’s resident hares and squirrels.
The walk is made even more enjoyable thanks to the many trees and shrubs that provide a canopy of shade and shelter. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a longer hike, Mamhead Park is the perfect place to explore the beauty of the countryside.
Exmouth Railway Walk
Take a scenic journey along the Exmouth Railway Walk and explore the stunning countryside. This five-mile walk stretches from Exmouth to the village of Lympstone and offers spectacular views of the estuary.
The path follows the old railway line, so you can imagine the trains that used to pass through here. You’ll pass several old railway features, including the old bridge, and if you take a detour, you can explore the old railway stations too.
The Exmouth Railway Walk is a great way to get out and about and explore the countryside. The path is mostly flat, making it an easy and enjoyable walk, and there are plenty of spots along the way to take a break or snap some photos.
You may even spot some wildlife, like deer and badgers, or catch a glimpse of a rare bird. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some seals in the estuary.
So, if you’re looking for a peaceful and scenic walk, the Exmouth Railway Walk is a great choice.
Exmouth Seafront Walk
After exploring the Exmouth Railway Walk, I decided to take a stroll along the Exmouth Seafront Walk. This walk offers a stunning view of the beach, as well as a unique perspective of the town itself.
The walk starts at the mouth of the River Exe and winds its way along the beach for a few miles. Along the way, you can take in sights such as the Victorian pier, a tidal beach, a promenade lined with cafes and pubs, and various wildlife that can be spotted in the area.
The walk is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more strenuous hike. There are plenty of benches and access points along the way, making it a great place for a picnic or a break from the sun.
The wide sandy beach is perfect for a spot of sunbathing or a paddle in the sea. And with the stunning views over Exmouth, you can take in the sights of this beautiful town.
Withycombe Nature Reserve Walk
Explore Withycombe Nature Reserve for a truly breathtaking walking experience! Withycombe Nature Reserve is a stunning wildlife haven located on the outskirts of Exmouth. It was created in the 1970s to protect the wide variety of plants and animals that call the area home.
The reserve stretches across a vast area of heathland, woodland, and marshland, making it a great place for a leisurely stroll or an energetic hike. The heathland is a sight to behold, with its rolling hills and breathtaking views. The varied landscape offers plenty of interesting spots to explore.
You’ll find the mysterious Bronze Age barrows and the charming little ponds that are home to a variety of wildlife. As you wander through the reserve, you’ll spot plenty of birds, insects, and small mammals, as well as the occasional deer or fox. The air is filled with the sound of birdsong and the smell of wildflowers, making it the perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of nature.
Withycombe Nature Reserve is truly an unforgettable walking experience!
Bicton Woodland and Arboretum Walk
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Bicton Woodland and Arboretum, and take in the sights and sounds of this lush landscape.
Located just outside of Exmouth, this stunning woodland walk offers a unique experience for all nature lovers.
With winding paths, trickling streams, and a variety of wildlife, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale.
As you meander through the ancient trees and rolling hills, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Be sure to keep an eye out for the diverse species of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife that call this arboretum home.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Bicton Woodland and Arboretum has something for everyone.
Enjoy a peaceful afternoon exploring this tranquil oasis and create lasting memories of your time in Exmouth.
Pinn Hill Walk
Discover the beauty of Pinn Hill on an unforgettable walk. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and spot a variety of wildlife in this lush landscape.
Nestled in the heart of Exmouth, Pinn Hill is a 4.5 mile circular walk featuring a mixture of woodland, meadows, and coastal views. With its diverse terrain, the route offers a unique and interesting experience for all.
The walk begins with a gentle climb through rolling meadows, before leading you to the top of the hill, where you can take in the stunning views of the glorious Devon countryside. You can also spot a wide range of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife as you make your way through the woods.
The walk then descends back to the start, giving you the opportunity to experience the beauty of the area from a different perspective.
With its variety of landscapes and wildlife, Pinn Hill is the perfect place to explore and take in the beauty of Exmouth.
Salterton Circular Walk
Take a stroll around Salterton on a beautiful circular walk. Enjoy captivating views of the stunning scenery and witness a variety of wildlife on this scenic route.
The 4.5 mile walk takes you through a mix of woodland, meadows, and coastal paths, making it a unique and exciting experience for all.
From the start, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding area and the chance to spot a range of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.
As you make your way around the route, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the Exe Estuary before descending back to the start.
With its variety of landscapes and wildlife, Salterton’s circular walk is an ideal way to explore the area, offering the perfect opportunity to appreciate the area’s natural beauty and observe the local wildlife.
Woodbury Common Walk
Experience a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life with a beautiful walk through Woodbury Common. This walk takes you through a picturesque landscape of rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and stunning Gulf of Exmouth views.
It’s a great way to get away from the bustle of the city and get a sense of the great outdoors.
The walk itself is a moderate length of 8 miles and will take around four hours to complete. The route is well-marked and easy to follow, making it ideal for those just starting out on their walking journey.
There are plenty of rest points and scenic spots along the way, allowing you to take in the breathtaking views and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
There’s no better way to escape from the stresses and strains of life than this peaceful stroll through Woodbury Common.
Brixington Trail
After exploring Woodbury Common, the next great walk to take in Exmouth is the Brixington Trail. This scenic walk is ideal for those who enjoy a challenge as well as a beautiful view.
Starting from the Exmouth seafront, the Brixington Trail takes you along the beachfront to the Brixington Hill. It’s a steep ascent, but the views of the Exe estuary and the Jurassic Coast are worth it.
The trail then winds its way through the countryside, taking you past old cottages, woodlands, and fields. There are plenty of spots to stop and admire the views, or to take a break.
The walk is just over five miles, so it’s perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
Exminster Marshes Walk
Meandering through the tranquil Exminster Marshes, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
This extensive marshland area is full of winding paths and hidden gems.
You can take a leisurely stroll along the well-marked trails, or go off the beaten path and explore the secret hideaways.
The best time to visit the marshes is during the spring and summer months, when the wildflowers come alive with color and the birds sing sweetly in the trees.
The grassy meadows, reed beds, and woodlands provide a rich habitat for a variety of wildlife, so you might spot a deer, rabbit, or even an otter if you’re lucky.
With its gentle slopes and varied landscapes, the Exminster Marshes Walk is a great way to relax, take in the sights, and enjoy some peace and quiet.
Sandy Bay Walk
Take in the stunning views of the Devon coastline as you stroll along the Sandy Bay Walk.
The winding path of this 3-mile walk takes you over cliffs, along beaches, and through estuaries.
Be sure to bring a camera to capture the moment, as the area is known for its breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.
You may even spot some dolphins, seals, or sea birds as you walk.
The path is well marked and easy to follow, with plenty of benches to rest and take in the sights.
Parts of the walk are quite hilly, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.
In addition, keep an eye out for the occasional surprise, such as an old fort or a hidden beach.
No matter which way you go, you’re sure to find plenty of interesting sights along the way.
Littleham Circular Walk
Experience the serene beauty of the Exe Estuary as you explore the Littleham Circular Walk.
Beginning at the Littleham village green, the walk takes you past the picturesque thatched cottages and along the path by the riverbank.
The path then winds up to the top of the hill, offering spectacular views of the estuary.
Along the way, you’ll be able to spot wildflowers, birds, and other wildlife.
The path then descends to the banks of the estuary, allowing you to enjoy the tranquility of the marshland.
The walk then winds up back to the village green, completing the circular route.
This route is perfect for those looking for a leisurely stroll, as it’s relatively flat and easy going.
Whether you’re looking to take in the beauty of the estuary or just to get some fresh air, the Littleham Circular Walk is the perfect choice.
Conclusion
My time spent exploring Exmouth’s beautiful scenery has been some of my most memorable experiences. From the breathtaking views of Orcombe Point to the peaceful ambiance of Sandy Bay, there is something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an adventurous hike, these 15 best walks in Exmouth have it all. I highly recommend setting aside some time to explore these wonderful areas and experience the beauty of nature in Exmouth.
It’s a unique opportunity that shouldn’t be missed!