Topsham Travel Guide

Plan your trip with this comprehensive Topsham Travel Guide, showcasing the must-visit attractions, top hiking and biking routes, food and drink scenes, where to stay and the best time to visit this charming town in Devon, England.


Introduction to Topsham

Located in the heart of West Country, in Devon, England, Topsham is a picturesque town known for its beautiful estuary and charming narrow streets, filled with historic buildings. The town is home to several cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and food and drink scenes that are worth exploring. In this travel guide, we will take you on a journey to discover the hidden treasures of Topsham, showcasing the must-visit attractions, top hiking and biking routes, food and drink scenes, where to stay, and the best time to visit.

List of Places to Visit in Topsham

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Topsham Museum
  • Topsham Heritage Centre
  • St. Margaret’s Church
  • The Old Courtroom
  • Topsham Quay Antiques Centre

Natural Attractions of Topsham: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Topsham Cycling Heritage Trail
  • River Exe Trail
  • Bowling Green Marsh
  • Dartmoor National Park
  • Exmouth Beach

Hiking/Biking Routes of Topsham

Topsham is surrounded by some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Devon and offers a range of hiking and biking routes to suit all abilities. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Exe Estuary Trail
  • Topsham to Exmouth Trail
  • The Three Beaches Walk
  • The Estuary Walk

Best Things to Do in Topsham: Activities and Tours

  • Take a boat trip along the River Exe
  • Experience a guided wildlife tour of the estuary
  • Visit the Topsham Museum and learn about the town’s fascinating history
  • Explore the local food and drink scene with a food tour of the town
  • Enjoy a scenic cycle ride along the Exe Estuary Trail

Week-Long Itinerary for Topsham

Day 1 Walk along the Exmouth Beach and enjoy watersports
Day 2 Explore the Topsham Museum and the town’s historic streets
Day 3 Cycle along the Exe Estuary Trail
Day 4 Take a guided tour of the estuary and local wildlife
Day 5 Discover the local food and drink scene with a food tour
Day 6 Visit the nearby Dartmoor National Park for a day’s hiking
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the charming scenery of Topsham

Food and Drink Scene of Topsham

Must-Try Dishes

Topsham is renowned for its local seafood. Some must-try dishes include:

  • Grilled scallops
  • Seafood paella
  • Mussels in white wine
  • Fish and chips
  • Oysters from River Exe

Local Beverages

  • Exeter Brewery’s Avocet Ale
  • Powderkeg Treasureer
  • Pebblebed Wine

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

Topsham offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences, including:

  • The Globe Inn
  • The Salutation Inn
  • The Lighter Inn
  • The Maltsters Arms
  • The Topsham Townhouse

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

  • River Exe scallop shell ornaments
  • Pebble-shaped doorstops made from locally-sourced granite
  • Exeter gin from the nearby Exeter Distillery

Local Culture and Customs of Topsham

Topsham has a vibrant community and is proud of its maritime heritage, which is celebrated through various local events and festivals, including the Topsham Regatta.

Best Time to Visit Topsham

The best time to visit Topsham is between May and September, when the weather is best for outdoor activities and exploring the town’s natural scenery. However, Topsham is worth visiting all year round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Topsham

Do:

  • Respect the town’s historic buildings and streets
  • Experience the local food and drink scene
  • Spend time exploring the natural scenery

Don’t:

  • Litter
  • Damage the local environment
  • Ignore the town’s cultural importance

Safety and Health

Safety in Topsham

Topsham is generally a safe place to visit. However, it is important to take necessary precautions to safeguard yourself and your belongings.

Health in Topsham

Topsham has a range of healthcare facilities, including doctor’s surgeries and pharmacies. In case of an emergency, the nearest hospital is the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital in Exeter.

Getting to Topsham: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Topsham

  • Exeter Airport (5.2 miles away)

Bus Stations Near Topsham

  • Topsham Quay, Ferry Road (0.1 miles away)
  • Topsham Barton Road, Station Road (0.3 miles away)

Other Options

  • Train stations in Exeter and Exmouth

How to Get Around in Topsham

Topsham is a small town that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. Additionally, local buses and taxis are available.

Where to Go Next from Topsham: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Exeter (4.5 miles away)
  • Exmouth (5 miles away)
  • Budleigh Salterton (7.5 miles away)
  • Sidmouth (12 miles away)

Conclusion

Topsham is a hidden gem in the heart of Devon, offering a range of cultural, natural, and culinary attractions that are worth exploring. From the local food and drink scene to the scenic hiking and biking routes, Topsham has something to offer everyone. We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your trip to Topsham and that you have a wonderful time exploring this charming town.