Exe Estuary Trail

A 26 mile, mainly flat cycle and walkway which, when complete, will run around the entire Exe Estuary linking Exmouth, Exeter and Dawlish, with fantastic views along the River Exe.

The pathway has been developed and constructed by Devon County Council as part of the National Cycle Network Route 2. Currently, the route links Exmouth, Lympstone and Exton with further sections linking to Topsham due to be completed in the near future.

The route is also ready to use between Topsham and Exeter, and Exeter and the Turf Locks Hotel.

This route provides an exciting opportunity for people to experience cycling or walking around the entire Exe Estuary, appreciating the wildlife and passing through some beautiful riverside towns and villages steeped in maritime history.

The different habitats on the Estuary support a diverse and plentiful range of flora and fauna including wintering waterfowl and waders. As a result, the Exe Estuary 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 primary conservation interests are the extensive inter-tidal habitats and the nationally and internationally important bird populations. These designations place responsibilities on Local Authorities and statutory bodies to ensure protection of the area’s wildlife and environment, and demand that the ‘precautionary principle’ is enshrined into planning and management of the Estuary. The Estuary has very strong historic and cultural interests many of which are linked to the coastal and marine environment and provides a valuable setting for activities such as walking, boating, fishing and bird watching.