Exeter offers a perfect base for outdoor lovers with access to riverside paddling, moorland hiking, and biking in nearby Dartmoor. Experience rich wildlife, historic sites, and well-connected trails all year-round.
Exeter offers a perfect base for outdoor lovers with access to riverside paddling, moorland hiking, and biking in nearby Dartmoor. Experience rich wildlife, historic sites, and well-connected trails all year-round.
Explore Outdoor Adventures in Exeter, Devon, England
Exeter is a vibrant market town in Devon that provides rich access to outdoor activities across land and water. Whether you're hiking scenic moorland trails, paddling calm river stretches, or cycling through historic countryside, Exeter is a versatile adventure destination.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Exeter, Devon, England special.
★ 8.7⌖ 13.70 milesExplore the South West Coast Path near Cornwall, offering coastal hiking with panoramic Atlantic views. Ideal from late spring to early autumn, this trail provides opportunities for wildlife watching, beachcombing, and kayaking along dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches.
★ 8.7⌖ 20.31 milesExplore Dartmoor National Park in Devon, featuring iconic granite tors and expansive moorlands. This remote location offers hiking and rock climbing. It's ideal for adventure seekers and is most enjoyable in the spring and summer.
★ 6.6⌖ 25.54 milesEasyVisit the ancient Down Tor Stone Circle in Dartmoor National Park, a mystical site with around 30 standing stones. Best explored during spring and fall, it's an easy hike-in spot perfect for history buffs and photographers seeking solitude and stunning moorland views.
★ 7.7⌖ 46.34 milesModerateClimb Glastonbury Tor, a natural hill near Glastonbury, Somerset, with a moderate hike up stone steps to historic St. Michael’s Tower. Enjoy panoramic views, pastoral surroundings, and cultural heritage year-round, ideal for hiking, photography, and quiet reflection.
⌖ 46.55 milesExplore Gallery On The Square in Dorchester, a cultural hub offering a blend of art and architecture. Enjoy walking and photography amidst neoclassical design and verdant landscapes. Ideal for cultural enthusiasts seeking tranquility in spring and fall.
Discover the top adventure activities and curated experiences in Exeter, Devon, England, verified by our editors to help you make the most of your trip.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in Exeter, Devon, England.
⌖ 4.9 miA 2–3 hour guided coasteering circuit in Devon’s UNESCO Geopark with Rock Solid Coasteering — this guide explains meeting logistics, kit, and what to expect on the Maidencombe Grand Tour.
⌖ 8.8 miA private 1–3 hour luxury RIB cruise from Exmouth Marina that threads the sheltered waters of the Exe Estuary—this guide explains what to expect, what to bring, and how the route unfolds.
⌖ 8.8 miA two‑hour VIP boat tour along the Devon coastline to Babbacombe Bay featuring luxury RIB comforts, wildlife viewing and an optional swim.
⌖ 8.8 miA fully customisable full-day charter from Exmouth Marina offering cruising of the River Exe or coastline, on-board lunch at a teak table, visits to local pubs and secluded bays—this guide helps you plan the day.
⌖ 8.8 miA one-hour, small-group launch from Exmouth Marina that covers the first miles of the UNESCO Jurassic Coast, delivering close-up geology, seabirds and a passage past a Royal Marines firing range.
⌖ 12.2 miA tailored, private coasteering session in Maidencombe — from kit to hot chocolate — this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
⌖ 15.1 miA 2–3 hour private session in Maidencombe with a guide and all required kit provided; this guide lays out what to bring, where to meet, and essential logistics for families and small groups.
⌖ 16.8 miA focused, one‑hour introductory session teaching beginners the balance, turning and forward‑paddling skills to stand up confidently on a board in Babbacombe Bay.
⌖ 16.8 miHourly hire of stable solo sit‑on‑top kayaks lets paddlers of varying experience explore Torquay’s coastline at their own pace; this guide explains what to expect and what to bring.
⌖ 16.8 miHourly (1–4 hour) tandem sit-on-top sea kayak hire in Torquay with boat, paddles and buoyancy aids provided — a concise guide to what to expect.
⌖ 16.8 miOne‑to‑four hour solo Sit‑On‑Top kayak hires from Sea Kayak Torbay, launching from Oddicombe Beach — a clear guide to what to expect on the water.
⌖ 16.8 miHourly hires of the Quatro sit-on-top let families (or a duo and a dog) glide along Torquay’s waters for one to four hours—this guide explains who they suit and how to plan.
⌖ 18.1 miA 3-hour tandem sea-kayak tour from Oddicombe Beach that threads limestone sea caves, offers seal encounters, and finishes on a secluded beach with a bonfire—this guide explains what to expect and what to bring.
⌖ 18.1 miA focused, guided 1.5-hour taster around Babbacombe Bay that introduces basic paddling skills and safe launching/landing—ideal for beginners and families.
⌖ 18.1 miA guided 2.5–3 hour stand‑up paddle tour that refreshes skills, threads secluded coves and sea caves, and offers wildlife viewing along Torbay’s clean, protected shoreline.
Make the most of your visit to Exeter, Devon, England with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Exeter, Devon, England hosts celebrated events throughout the year showcasing the region's culture, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Exeter, Devon, England during the iconic Exeter River Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Exeter, Devon, England during the iconic Dartmoor Walking Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Exeter, Devon, England during the iconic Exeter Bike Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Pack waterproof gear as weather can be changeable year-round.
Use public transport or bike rentals to explore local trails sustainably.
Check tide times when paddling in the Exe Estuary for safety.
Book accommodation early during popular festivals and summer months.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Exeter, Devon, England. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.