The Big Exe Loop

Full Day Out: The Exe Estuary Trail & Starcross Ferry Adventure

This is the premier journey on the Exe Estuary Trail. You’ll travel through the heart of the Devon countryside, passing Topsham and the historic Powderham Castle before reaching Starcross. To finish, enjoy a unique boat trip across the water. This 14-16 mile route is the ideal showcase for our Electric Bike Hire, making the distance feel effortless.

Distance: approx. 14 miles total to Starcross, 16 miles to Dawlish and 32 miles Return
Terrain: Flat, traffic-free cycle path
Ideal for: Confident families, couples, adventurous riders, e-bikes

This is the longest and most rewarding ride on the Exe Estuary Trail. You follow the river all the way around the estuary as far as Dawlish. Before retracing your steps in this case your pedal strokes,  when you reaching Starcross, you have a decision to make, carry on and ride all the way back to Exmouth or take the ferry back across the water to Exmouth for a relaxing finish.

It’s a true journey — wide estuary views, quiet paths, sailing boats, villages and open countryside all the way. The ferry at the end turns a long ride into a real experience and gives everyone a well-earned rest on the way back.

The Route: What to Expect

  • Exmouth to Topsham: A gentle 6-mile start. Stop for coffee at the Quay before heading south toward the "other side" of the river.
  • The Turf Locks & Powderham: Ride past the famous Turf Locks Hotel (only accessible by foot or bike) and enjoy views of the deer park at Powderham Castle.
  • Starcross: Your destination. A quiet village with great views back toward Exmouth.

Why this ride is special

This is the ultimate Exe Estuary adventure — a full loop around the river, finished with a ferry ride back to Exmouth.

You cycle around the estuary on quiet, flat paths, enjoying big skies, wildlife, villages and open countryside, before reaching the harbour village of Starcross. From there, you take the passenger and cycle ferry straight back across the water to Exmouth, giving you a relaxing and memorable end to your ride.

What you’ll see along the way

Along the route you’ll pass:

  • Lympstone, Exton and Topsham
  • Powderham Castle and parkland
  • Wide estuary views and wildlife
  • Peaceful riverside paths

It’s one of the most scenic rides in Devon, yet it’s easy to follow and almost entirely traffic-free.

Arriving in Starcross

Starcross is a small harbour village and a lovely place to pause before the ferry.

Here you can:

  • Watch boats and wildlife
  • Grab a drink or snack
  • Enjoy views back across the estuary

Then it’s time for the highlight…

The Starcross Ferry

The ferry carries both people and bikes back across the river to Exmouth. For many riders — especially children — this is the best part of the day. It turns a long cycle ride into a proper adventure and gives everyone a well-earned rest at the end.

Starcross to Exmouth Ferry   (note this service is cash only)

Why customers love this ride

  • A real sense of journey
  • Flat, easy riding
  • Stunning scenery
  • A boat trip included
  • Perfect for making a day of it

It’s a ride people remember long after their holiday ends.

The Secret to a Great Day: The Ferry
Why ride back when you can sail? The Starcross to Exmouth Ferry saves your legs and provides the best views of the estuary.

  • Pro Tips: The ferry is Cash Only—make sure to stop at an ATM in Exmouth before we deliver your bikes! Allow time to get yourself and bikes across the railway station bridge, that is stairs only access
  • Groups & Families: Our Child Trailers and Tag-alongs (link to collection or specific product) are all ferry-friendly.

Plan Your Adventure