Outdoor activities around Exeter

Looking for things to do near Exeter? We've rounded up a list of our favourite outdoor activities near the Devon capital. From walks in nature to family adventures, there's something for everyone.

Cycling on Haldon

Haldon Forest Park is home to a number of trails for biking, offering natural cycling and progression for your off-road skills.

Situated high on the Haldon Ridge, the trails provide excellent views of Devon countryside and Exeter city. Trails include the Kiddens trail, Ridge Ride Extreme, Ridge Ride trail, Skills area, Spicers trail, and Pump loop. Whatever your ability, there’s a trail for you.

Kayaking in Exeter Canal

Situated at Exeter Quay, Haven Banks offers the opportunity to hire canoes, paddle boards and kayaks for a hassle-free and affordable way to get out on the water. With many Exeter Canal and River Exe Canoe loops, there’s plenty to explore.

Paddle boarding in Exmouth

Exmouth is infamous among locals for its fantastic location for watersports. Two miles of sandy beach heading into the River Exe in the arch of Lyme Bay provide the perfect conditions for an on-the-water playground.

The ‘duckpond’ as it’s known locally is a sheltered area of the estuary and is a great spot for beginners. For those of you more confident on a paddle board, the area around Pole Sands where the river meets the open sea is ideal.

Canonteign Falls

Just 13 miles from Exeter, Canonteign Falls is nestled in the heart of the countryside, and comprises lakes, playgrounds and Victorian gardens. Most importantly, it is home to highest waterfall in Devon. Climb up through ancient woodland via the original 19^th century steps and take in the panoramic view of Devonshire rolling hills from the top of the waterfall.

Exe Valley City to Coast walk

The Exe Valley Way is a 45-mile route for long distance walkers to explore the valley, but at its lower end, the eight miles between Exeter and Starcross provide the perfect walking route for people wanting a low-difficult walk. The route follows the flat valley floor alongside the historic Exeter Cancel and the River Exe estuary. From the end of the walk, a bus or train can be taken back to Exeter if you don’t fancy the walk back.

In summer, a ferry runs from Starcross to Exmouth, offering an all-day adventure.

Go Ape

Looking for an adventure that will quite literally take you to new heights? Go Ape’s Exeter location is right in Haldon Forest, with the rugged moors setting the scene. You may be deep in the forest, but the 360-degree views from the treetops are spectacular. Including an exhilarating high ropes course with epic zip lines and entry-level high ropes course, it’s perfect for the whole family.

South West Coast Path

The South West Coast Path is England’s longest waymarked footpath and a National Trail. It stretches 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset, along the coasts of Devon and Cornwall, and up to Poole Harbour in Dorset.

You can join the path at any point along Exeter’s nearest coasts, including Torquay, Teignmouth, and Exmouth.

Looking for your next car to take out on adventures? Explore our Used Cars in Exeter.