Exmouth Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Exmouth, a charming seaside town in Devon, United Kingdom. Plan the perfect itinerary with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Exmouth

Located on the coast of South Devon, Exmouth is a charming seaside town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. With its golden beaches, seaside cliffs and stunning views of the Jurassic Coast, this picturesque town is a haven for nature lovers. Exmouth also boasts a rich history and numerous cultural attractions, making it a great place for history buffs and enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Exmouth

From museums and historical sites to stunning outdoor attractions, Exmouth has something for everyone. Here are some of the top places to visit in Exmouth:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Exmouth Museum: This small museum provides an insight into the town’s history and features a collection of local artifacts and archives.
  • A la Ronde: This unique National Trust property is a 16-sided house built in the 18th century and is decorated with a beautiful collection of shells.
  • Powderham Castle: This castle is a popular landmark and has been the family home of the Earl and Countess of Devon for over 600 years.

Natural Attractions of Exmouth: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Exmouth Beach: With its sandy shores and crystal clear waters, Exmouth’s beach is a great place to relax and soak up the sun.
  • Exmouth to Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve: This reserve boasts of stunning views and is home to over 600 species of birds, mammals, and plants.
  • The South West Coast Path: This scenic trail offers picturesque views of the coast and is a great way to explore the surrounding countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Exmouth

Exmouth is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts who love hiking and biking. Here are some of the best hiking and biking trails in the area:

  • East Devon Way: This 40-mile trail runs from Exmouth to Lyme Regis and offers stunning views of the Jurassic Coast.
  • Exe estuary trail: This trail stretches for 26 miles and is perfect for cycling and walking. It offers stunning views of the River Exe and the surrounding countryside.
  • The Exe Valley Way: This is a long-distance trail that follows the River Exe from its source in Somerset to the sea at Exmouth.

Best Things to Do in Exmouth: Activities and Tours

Exmouth is a town that never lacks exciting activities for visitors. Here are some of the best things to do in Exmouth:

  • Boat Tour: Take a boat tour of the Jurassic Coast and discover the town’s history and scenic landscapes from a different perspective.
  • Watersports: With its clear waters, Exmouth is a perfect place for adrenaline sports like kayaking, snorkeling, and windsurfing.
  • Fishing: Charter a boat or throw your line from the shore at Exmouth beach and catch some fish.

Week-Long Itinerary for Exmouth

Day Activity
1 Visit Exmouth Museum, Powderham Castle
2 Enjoy Watersports Activities, and Local Beaches
3 Walking Tour of the South West Coast Path
4 East Devon Way Hiking Trail
5 Explore A la Ronde, Walk in Bystock Pools
6 Exe estuary trail cycling, and visit canalside pubs
7 Boat Tour or Charter Fishing

Food and Drink Scene of Exmouth

In Exmouth, foodies will find a wide range of options, including fresh seafood, traditional British cuisine, international cuisine, cafes, and street food. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Exmouth:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Devonshire Cream Tea: A typical Devonshire cream tea includes scones, clotted cream, jam, and tea, and is a quintessential English dish.
  • Fish and Chips: A popular dish in the UK, served with tartar sauce and mushy peas
  • Lobster: A favorite seafood in Exmouth, Lobster dishes are widely available in local restaurants.

Local Beverages

  • Cider and Ale: The West Country is known for its cider and ale, so it’s a must-try when visiting Exmouth
  • Gin: There are several local distilleries in Devon producing award-winning gins.

Where to Stay in Exmouth: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Exmouth offers a wide range of accommodation choices, from luxurious country houses to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some of the top-rated places to stay in Exmouth:

  • The Royal Beacon Hotel: This elegant Victorian hotel is located near the beach and provides stunning views of the sea.
  • The Dolphin Hotel: This traditional guesthouse is located in the heart of the town and has a cozy and relaxed atmosphere.
  • The Devoncourt Resort: This family-friendly resort offers modern, spacious apartments and a range of on-site amenities, including in-house restaurants, swimming pools, and sports facilities.

What to Buy in Exmouth: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Exmouth is known for its local produce, souvenirs, and handcrafted items. Here are some of the best places to buy local products in Exmouth:

  • Exmouth Farmers Market: This weekly market provides visitors with an excellent opportunity to sample local produce, including organic fruit and vegetables, jams, and honey.
  • The Exmouth Designed Gallery: This independent boutique offers locally produced pottery, jewelry, and art and is a perfect place to buy a souvenir.
  • Exmouth Indoor Market: This indoor market has an array of products and stalls to browse from, including antiques and crafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Exmouth

Exmouth has a rich history and a vibrant culture steeped in traditional customs. Locals are friendly, and visitors are always welcome. Some local customs include:

  • Devonshire Cream Tea: Enjoy a Devonshire cream tea in the afternoon. Usually comes with a scone with jam and clotted cream, and a cuppa tea.
  • Morris Dancing: A traditional English dance that typically involves bells, sticks, and handkerchiefs and is performed during cultural festivals.
  • May Day Celebrations: A centuries-old tradition in Exmouth, where locals celebrate the first day of May with festivities, floral displays and dancing in the streets.

Best Time to Visit Exmouth

Exmouth is a great destination throughout the year, but the ideal time to visit is between May and September when the weather is generally pleasant and visitors can make the most of the town’s outdoor activities and stunning natural beauty.

Do’s and Don’ts of Exmouth

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Exmouth:

Do:

  • Walk or cycle on the South West Coast Path
  • Visit local festivals and events
  • Try local seafood and traditional British cuisine

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beach or anywhere in the town
  • Leave any outdoor adventure unsupervised
  • Forget to pack sunscreen and hat during the summer months

Safety and Health

Exmouth is a safe place to visit, and visitors are unlikely to face any serious health risks. However, it is always best to exercise caution and safety while exploring the town.

Safety in Exmouth

  • Be aware of the tide times while exploring the beach and coastal area
  • Look both ways while crossing the road
  • Keep valuables safe and in closed bags.

Health in Exmouth

  • Always use sunscreen when out and about
  • Check for with insect repellent if doing outdoor activities
  • Drink plenty of water in hot weather.

Getting to Exmouth: Transportation Options and Logistics

Exmouth is easy to reach, and there are several transportation options.

Airports Near Exmouth

The nearest international airport to Exmouth is Exeter International Airport, which is 9 miles away from the town.

Bus Stations Near Exmouth

Exmouth has a central bus station which is well connected with other major cities and towns in the area.

Other Options

Other options include car rental and taxis.

How to Get Around in Exmouth

Exmouth is a small town, so it is easy to get around on foot. However, there are also several transportation options, including buses, taxis, and car rentals.

Where to Go Next from Exmouth: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Exmouth’s location, makes it an excellent base to explore other nearby destinations, including:

  • Sidmouth: This charming coastal town is just a short drive from Exmouth and is famous for its regency architecture, and picturesque gardens.
  • Dartmoor National Park: This expansive national park is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, with its rugged landscapes, hiking trails, and cultural heritage.
  • Exeter: A vibrant city with many historic attractions and cultural sites.

Conclusion

Exmouth’s stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and exciting outdoor adventures make it a perfect destination for visitors of all ages and interests. Start planning your trip today and discover why Exmouth is one of the most popular destinations in the United Kingdom!

Exmouth Seafront, looking toward the Exe estuary Exmouth Seafront, looking toward the Exe estuary A la Ronde, near Lympstone A la Ronde, near Lympstone