Ottery St Mary offers gentle hiking, scenic cycling, and peaceful kayaking along the River Otter. Its quiet rural landscapes and historic charm make it a perfect spot for relaxed outdoor adventure in Devon.
Ottery St Mary offers gentle hiking, scenic cycling, and peaceful kayaking along the River Otter. Its quiet rural landscapes and historic charm make it a perfect spot for relaxed outdoor adventure in Devon.
Outdoor Adventure in Ottery St Mary, Devon
Ottery St Mary is a delightful market town located in the heart of Devon known for its scenic landscapes and outdoor activities. Ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful countryside experience, it offers a variety of options for hiking, cycling, kayaking, and wildlife watching.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Ottery St Mary, Devon special.
★ 8.7⌖ 18.41 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⌖ 30.78 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⌖ 35.70 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.
⌖ 35.76 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.
★ 7.7⌖ 37.17 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.
★ 8.7⌖ 44.91 milesExplore Durdle Door, a stunning natural arch on Dorset's Jurassic Coast. Enjoy activities like beachcombing, hiking, and kayaking. The site is not accessible and is busy in summer, but offers a scenic and educational experience along England's heritage coast.
★ 9.4⌖ 44.93 milesVisit the stunning Durdle Door on England's Jurassic Coast, known for its iconic limestone arch and breathtaking coastal views. Enjoy hiking, photography, and swimming in this geologically significant area. Best visited during spring and fall for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
Discover the top adventure activities and curated experiences in Ottery St Mary, Devon, 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 Ottery St Mary, Devon.
⌖ 11.1 miDiscover your personal scent with a bespoke perfume experience at The Perfume Studio in Exeter. Create, customize, and take home your signature fragrance in this immersive workshop.
⌖ 11.2 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.
⌖ 11.2 miA two‑hour VIP boat tour along the Devon coastline to Babbacombe Bay featuring luxury RIB comforts, wildlife viewing and an optional swim.
⌖ 11.2 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.
⌖ 11.2 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.
⌖ 14.2 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.
⌖ 15.2 miA concise, practical guide to the Half Hour Jurassic Coast Cruise from West Bay that explains what you’ll see—sandstone cliffs, beaches and Golden Cap—and how the short coastal run works.
⌖ 15.2 miA one-hour Lyme Bay RIB Charter outing along the Jurassic Coast from West Bay, timed for morning and evening light and focused on shoreline landmarks.
⌖ 17.8 miA tailored, private coasteering session in Maidencombe — from kit to hot chocolate — this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
⌖ 19.8 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.
⌖ 20.0 miA one‑hour, headset‑based escape‑room experience in Taunton for groups of 2–6 players, suitable for ages 7+ and delivered by Player Ready VR — this guide explains the rooms, flow, and practicalities.
⌖ 21.3 miDiscover the coastal beauty of Torbay on a guided kayaking course designed for beginners. Learn essential skills and paddle through stunning waters in this fun-packed adventure.
⌖ 21.3 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.
⌖ 21.3 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.
⌖ 21.3 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.
Make the most of your visit to Ottery St Mary, Devon with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Ottery St Mary, Devon hosts celebrated events throughout the year showcasing the region's culture, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Ottery St Mary, Devon during the iconic Tar Barrels Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Ottery St Mary, Devon during the iconic Ottery St Mary Farmers’ Market. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Ottery St Mary, Devon during the iconic St Mary’s Fair. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Pack sturdy footwear for uneven countryside trails.
Local shops provide maps and guides for nearby cycling routes.
River Otter water levels can vary; check conditions before kayaking.
Public transport options are limited; a car or bike is recommended.
Visit during the Tar Barrels Festival for a unique cultural experience.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Ottery St Mary, Devon. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.