Route Highlight
Exeter
With its iconic Gothic Cathedral in a relaxed pedestrianised Close, vibrant river waterfront and a huge bustling shopping zone, Exeter is one of the west’s urban highlights. Find boutique hotels and chic restaurants although there are always views to the green hills too… and often down the valley towards the sea. The river runs right through the city and has become a major attraction, lined with walks, bars, and watersports.
During your trip
Other Route Highlights
AXMOUTH, SEATON AND BEER
Once an important international port, Axmouth is now a sleepy waterside village of stone cottages. Look for the photogenic spot where the River Axe curves through pebbles to the sea.
Sidmouth
Framed by high red sandstone cliffs, Sidmouth’s elegant Regency houses and hotels line a classic esplanade with a busy labyrinth of shopping streets behind. They lead northwards towards the picturesque Sid Valley.
Exmouth
The two miles of seafront from a glossy yacht marina at the mouth of the Exe to the weathered red cliffs at Orcombe headland make an interesting drive – or a bracing walk.
Topsham and the Exe Estuary
Villages lining the Exe Estuary offer pubs with watery views, boat trips and scenic walks. Explore and you’ll see why the estuary landscape is a little-known highlight of the west country.