Not content with being one of Devon’s oldest and prettiest seaside resorts, Exmouth is also the gateway to the World Heritage Jurassic Coast, full of beautiful views and stunning scenery.
Located on the east coast of Devon and close to Exeter, Exmouth is a vibrant town with plenty to see and do all year around as well as being a great destination for water sport enthusiasts and beach fans. It isn’t hard to see why it has been a popular resort since the 18th century, with the abundance of restaurants, hotels and the town’s busy events calendar.
The beach
Exmouth’s much loved beach stretches across two miles and with its glorious, golden sand, it is the perfect place to relax, take a stroll or indulge in watersports, whether you’re travelling as part of a family, a couple looking for a romantic getaway or a solo traveller in search of adventure. In fact, Exmouth is the centre of water sports for South Devon and you’ll find instructors and organisations running sessions for just about any sport you can think of including kite surfing, kayaking and more.
As well as the beach, Exmouth is home to a number of picturesque walking and cycling trails. The Exe Estuary Cycle Trail runs from Exmouth to Dawlish along the banks of the estuary and with easy access to the South West Coast Path, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to get out and about to enjoy nature. The World Heritage Site at the Jurassic Coast has a number of walking trails so you can really see the dramatic cliff edges for yourself and maybe even find evidence of the prehistoric creatures that once roamed the coastline here.
If you want to experience a little more of the Jurassic Coast, nearby is the private beach of Sandy Bay which can be found just a little way along the coast.
Fascinating history
Depending on who you ask, you’re likely to hear that Exmouth is thought to be the oldest holiday resort in Devon. While we know for certain that it has been a popular spot for holiday makers since the 18th century, it is thought that people were flocking to enjoy the beach and the scenery long before then! The town really grew during the Victorian and Georgian eras and this is still very much evident in the architecture, many of the town’s hotels can be found within beautiful, grand Victorian style villas which have been tastefully refurbished throughout.
Of course, the history that can be found along the coastline is pretty fascinating too. Make sure to explore some of the rock pools when you visit the beach and see what you can find and if you’re out and about walking around the trails, be on the look out for fossils as there are plenty on display in the cliffs and the sand.
Great base for exploring the region
Being so close to the city of Exeter means that you’ll never be short of things to do. Not only do you get the best of both worlds, the beach holiday with the added city element, but there are plenty of events going on all year around for you to enjoy.
In Exmouth, the focus is very much on food festivals, top highlights include Exmouth Mussel Festival where you can sample some of the freshest seafood alongside local wines and ales as well as the chance to learn from some of the best chefs. The Exmouth Festival is held every year and is one of the most popular events for families and couples alike. The festival is free to attend and has a great line up of music and theatre as well as local food.
If food festivals aren’t really your thing, don’t miss out on the annual Kite Festival – it makes for a great, unique day out!
Indulge in some retail therapy…
If you’re planning to do a spot of shopping during your travels, don’t worry about venturing into Exeter, Exmouth is home to a range of shops from the independent to the high street chains. Make sure to visit the indoor market for a chance to find some unique gifts you won’t find elsewhere!
