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Best Cycle Routes in Exmouth | The Exe Estuary Cycle Trail and More

Looking for the best cycle routes in Exmouth? Whether you’re after a relaxed family ride or a scenic coastal adventure, Exmouth offers some of the most enjoyable cycling in Devon.

With flat, traffic-free paths and stunning estuary views, cycling is one of the easiest ways to explore the area. If you don’t have your own bike, you can easily arrange bike hire in Exmouth and start your ride straight away.

 

Exmouth Seafront on a sunny summers day, with gig row boat in the background

Family-Friendly Cycle Routes in Exmouth

Exmouth is one of the best places in Devon for family cycling.

The Exe Estuary Trail is especially popular because:

  • It’s completely traffic-free
  • The terrain is flat and easy
  • There are plenty of stops along the way

For families, hiring bikes is often the easiest option—especially with our  click and deliver service in Exmouth , which brings everything directly to you.

👉 Explore more options on our family days out in Devon page.

 

Best Cycle Routes in Exmouth

Here are some of the most popular cycling routes to enjoy:

🚴 Exe Estuary Trail (Top Route)

The Exe Estuary Trail is the most popular cycle route in Exmouth—and for good reason.

This flat, traffic-free path follows the river all the way to Topsham and beyond, offering:

  • Stunning waterside views
  • Safe cycling away from traffic
  • Plenty of cafés and pubs along the route
  • Opportunities to spot local wildlife
Phone Box Book Library in Topsham with river views

Here are 3 Recommended Rides on the Exe Estuary Trail, with something to suit everyone

Topsham Family Ride

Distance: Approx. 6 miles Exmouth to Topsham
Difficulty: Easy (perfect for beginners and families)

Exmouth to Exeter

Distance: Approx. 10 miles Exmouth to Exeter
Difficulty: Easy (perfect for beginners and families)

Exmouth Big Exe Loop

Distance: Approx. 14 miles Exmouth to Starcross (optional ferry ride back to Exmouth), 16 miles to Dawlish and 32 miles Dawlish return
Ideal for: Confident families, couples, adventurous riders, e-bikes

 

👉 Start your ride with bike hire in Exmouth and choose your location using our click and deliver service in Exmouth for maximum convenience.

 

Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton (Old Railway Line Cycleway)

For a slightly more adventurous ride, head east towards Budleigh Salterton.

This route offers:

  • Beautiful coastal scenery at Budleigh
  • A mix of flat and gentle hills
  • Quiet roads and scenic views

Perfect for riders looking to explore beyond the estuary.

 

old railway line Exmouth to Budleigh

 

🌊 Exmouth Beach and Marina

A great way to start or end ride a in Exmouth is riding along the seafront between Exmouth Marina and Orcombe point taking in Exmouth beach, and for an extra treat there are lots of places for an ice cream stop

Why Cycle in Exmouth?

Cycling allows you to:

  • Cover more distance than walking
  • Explore the estuary at your own pace
  • Enjoy safe, traffic-free routes
  • Stop at cafés, pubs, and viewpoints along the way
  • It’s one of the best ways to experience everything Exmouth has to offer in a single day.

 

Exmouth Marina looking across the mouth of the Exe to Dawlish Warren

Plan Your Ride

Half-Day Ride:

  • Start in Exmouth
  • Cycle to Lympstone or Topsham
  • Stop for coffee or lunch
  • Return at a relaxed pace

Full-Day Ride:

  • Cycle the full Exe Estuary Trail
  • Explore Topsham
  • Continue further or return via ferry

 

Start Your Ride in Exmouth

Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying locally, cycling is the perfect way to explore.

👉 Book your  bike hire in Exmouth
👉 And choose  you location using our click and deliver service in Exmouth for the easiest start to your ride