Route Highlight
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.
However you travel the views west from Exmouth are always good. At sunset they’re spectacular. From the beach, or historic terraces behind, see the strange sandbar of Dawlish Warren poking across the river mouth and, beyond that, a sequence of headlands right round to Berry Head at Brixham.
Exmouth is the biggest town on the coast between Weymouth and Torquay, so expect plenty of places to shop, drink, stay and eat. Highlights include a floating seafood restaurant in the Exe Estuary and stylish beach bars.
Our partners Visit Exmouth provide a wealth of information on their website.
During your trip
Other Route Highlights
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.
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.
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.
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.