The Ultimate Family Day Out: Exmouth & The Exe Estuary Trail
The Perfect Day Trip for Visitors Staying in Sidmouth, Seaton & East Devon
If you are staying in Sidmouth, Seaton, Budleigh, Axminster or somewhere across East Devon, don't settle for a local walk—experience the best cycle route in Devon with The Exe Estuary Trail. Skip the town centre traffic and meet us at Maer Road Car Park (EX8 2DB). It’s the quieter, scenic gateway to the coast and the estuary.
Why we meet you at Maer Road:
- The Full Tour: Before hitting the Exe Estuary Trail, enjoy a stunning 2-mile warm-up along the Exmouth Seafront and through the Marina.
- Easy Parking: Even in the height of summer, Maer Road is much quieter than the town centre car parks, making unloading the family stress-free.
- Beach Access: You are seconds away from the golden sands. End your ride with a dip in the sea or fish and chips on the beach!
How to book your "Seafront to Estuary" Adventure:
- Book Online: Select your bikes and choose "Maer Road Delivery."
- Drive In: It’s a scenic 20-minute drive from Sidmouth or Otterton.
- Meet & Ride: We meet you at your car with the bikes, helmets, and a custom map.
- Explore: Ride the seafront, wave at the boats in the Marina, and then join the Exe Estuary Trail toward Lympstone and Topsham.
To help map out your day we have written a 5 Step Guide
Check out our full 5-step guide below
👇 👇 👇
🗺️ Your 5-Step "Coast-to-River" Adventure
Step 1: The Jurassic Coast Start (5-10 Mins)
Meet us at Maer Road. We’ll have your bikes ready at your car. Turn left and cruise down to the Geoneedle at Orcombe Point. You are now at the official start of the UNESCO Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. Take a family photo against the red Triassic cliffs before turning back to ride with the ocean on your left.
Step 2: The Marina Loop & Boat Spotting (5 Mins)
Follow the promenade past the Lifeboat Station and Exmouth Pavilion. Use the dedicated cycle path to enter Exmouth Marina. Watch the Stuart Line Cruise ships and local fishing boats. It’s the perfect "warm-up" before the main trail. Note - Please dismount and walk your bikes across the bridge in the Marina.
Step 3: The "Local Shortcut" & Estuary Views (5 Mins)
Skip the main road! We’ll show you how to cut through using Camperdown Terrace, passing the Imperial Recreation Ground Play Area (a great "emergency bribe" for the kids!). Continue to Royal Avenue for your first breathtaking views across the Exe Estuary toward Starcross and Powderham Castle.
The ride is perfect for toddlers or four-legged friends by adding a Dog or Children's Trailer to your family hire.
Step 4: The Exe Estuary Trail to Topsham (1-2 Hours)
Now you’re on the official Exe Estuary Trail. It’s flat, traffic-free, and safe for all ages. Enjoy the 5-mile stretch to the charming village of Topsham.
-
Pro-Tip: Stop at The Galley or Topsham Quay for lunch before your scenic return journey.
Step 5: The Victory Ice Cream & Sunset Finish
On your return to the seafront, stop at The Octagon or one of the other icecream places along the beach for a local Devon made dairy ice cream. After handing your bikes back to us at Maer Road, finish your day with award-winning Krispies Fish & Chips or a sunset sea swim on the golden sands.
✅ Why Families Choose Our "Click & Deliver" Service
We make your day trip effortless. No searching for a shop—we bring the adventure to you.
- Premium Fleet: High-quality mountain bikes, hybrids, and E-bikes.
- Family Ready: Tag-alongs, Dog Trailers, and Child Seats available.
- Safety Gear: Helmets and high-security locks included with every hire.
- Expert Maps: We provide a custom map of our "Local Shortcuts."
- Flexible Pick-up: We meet you at your car at the start and end of your day.
🚲 Ready to Book Your Exmouth Adventure?
Direct Delivery to Maer Road Car Park (EX8 2DB)
👉 BOOK YOUR FAMILY BIKE HIRE HERE
🤔 Frequently Asked Questions: Family Days Out in Exmouth
Where is the best place to park for the Exe Estuary Trail?
We recommend starting at Maer Road Car Park (EX8 2DB). It is much less busy than the town centre car parks during the high season and offers immediate access to the Exmouth Seafront, the Marina, and the Jurassic Coast before you join the main estuary trail.
Is the Exe Estuary Trail safe for young children?
Yes! The route from Exmouth to Topsham is 99% traffic-free, flat, and paved. It is the safest "beginner" route in East Devon, making it perfect for kids on their own bikes or in our Child Trailers.
Can we cycle to Topsham and back in one day?
Absolutely. The ride from Exmouth to Topsham is approximately 5 miles (8km) and takes about 45–60 minutes at a leisurely family pace. Most families spend 2 hours in Topsham for lunch or ice cream before enjoying the scenic ride back.
How does "Click & Deliver" work for day visitors?
It’s simple! With Click and Deliver you book your bikes online and choose the Maer Road Car Park as your delivery point. We meet you at your car with your fitted helmets, locks, and maps. When you're finished, we meet you back at your car to collect the bikes. No searching for a shop or carrying gear!
Are there toilets and cafes along the route?
Yes, there are public toilets at Exmouth Train Station, Lympstone Village, and Topsham Quay. You’ll also pass several family-friendly cafes like The Swan Inn in Lympstone and The Route 2 Café in Topsham.
👉 BOOK YOUR FAMILY BIKE HIRE HERE