Exmouth Beach, Devon

Exmouth, UK, on Devon’s south coast, is one of England’s oldest seaside towns. Shaped by the River Exe, two miles of golden sands, and the surrounding Jurassic Coast cliffs, Exmouth balances the energy of a family-friendly resort with the charm of a traditional community.

Unlike smaller East Devon neighbours, such as Sidmouth or Budleigh Salterton, Exmouth is a larger town, with a population of around 35,000, offering visitors a wide, sandy beach, markets, independent shops, and a lively town centre, alongside opportunities for watersports, walking, and nature.

Exmouth makes an ideal base for exploring the coast and countryside of East Devon. It’s also a destination in its own right, with attractions ranging from the famous Exmouth Beach to the nearby World of Country Life, plus accommodation choices from Exmouth Haven, Devon Cliffs Holiday Park, to seafront hotels like the Imperial Hotel Exmouth Devon or Exmouth Premier Inn.

This guide will introduce you to Exmouth: how to get there, what to do, where to shop, and how to make the most of your visit.

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Table Of Contents

Table of Contents
Map of Exmouth, England
The History of Exmouth, UK: From Fishing Port to Holiday Town
What to See and Do in Exmouth
Exmouth Town Centre & Shopping
Seasonal Highlights & Annual Events
Getting There & Getting Around
Eating and Drinking
Where to Stay
Weather in Exmouth
Practicalities & other helpful links
Exmouth, England FAQs
Final Thoughts

Map of Exmouth, England

The History of Exmouth, UK: From Fishing Port to Holiday Town

Exmouth has a long history, stretching back centuries and shaped by the sea that surrounds it. Lying at the mouth of the River Exe, it has always been a place defined by water: first as a fishing village, later as a maritime trading port, and eventually as one of Britain’s earliest seaside resorts.

Early Origins and Fishing Life

Although the town we know as Exmouth took shape much later, the estuary itself has been used by humans since prehistoric times. Archaeological finds show evidence of settlement in the surrounding hills, while the sheltered waters of the Exe provided rich fishing grounds. By the medieval period, Exmouth was already recognised as a working community of fishermen and boatmen.

Its location gave it a natural advantage: the wide estuary allowed small craft to beach safely, and the proximity to Exeter meant fish and shellfish could be sold inland quickly. Salmon, oysters, and other shellfish were particularly valued. The Exe was once renowned for its salmon runs, which supported generations of fishermen in Exmouth and the nearby town of Topsham.

A Trading Point on the Exe

By the 11th century, Exmouth was developing beyond fishing into maritime trade. Ships sailed up the estuary to Exeter, which acted as the region’s leading commercial centre. But Exmouth’s position at the river mouth meant it was also a practical stopping point in its own right. Coastal trade flourished, with cargoes of wool, stone, and agricultural produce moving in and out of the estuary.

Relations with Exeter, however, were not always easy. Exeter jealously guarded its trading rights, and on several occasions, Exmouth’s ambitions to expand its harbour were curtailed by the city’s influence. Even so, Exmouth developed into a small but lively community, with inns, boatyards, and houses clustered around the shoreline.

Pirates and Seafarers

The exposed position of the estuary mouth meant that Exmouth also attracted less savoury visitors. During the 14th and 15th centuries, pirates occasionally operated in the area, capitalising on the open sea routes. Coastal raiding was not uncommon, and Exmouth gained a reputation as a place of both opportunity and danger.

At the same time, legitimate seafarers from Exmouth ventured further afield. By the Tudor period, men from the town were sailing on voyages of exploration and trade, and the harbour itself was a point of departure for wider enterprises. Sir Walter Raleigh, one of Devon’s most famous adventurers, is recorded as beginning several of his voyages from Exmouth, linking the town to the age of discovery and England’s earliest ventures across the Atlantic.

The 18th Century: A Seaside Discovery

The Royal Beacon Hotel – an example of Regency architecture.

The most significant change in Exmouth’s identity came in the 18th century. With the Napoleonic War making overseas travel difficult or impossible, the wealthy turned to English resorts as alternatives. This was the era when bathing in the sea became fashionable, promoted by doctors as a cure for a wide range of ailments, from melancholy to poor digestion. Coastal towns that had once been functional fishing villages suddenly found themselves fashionable destinations.

Exmouth was ideally placed to benefit. It was close to Exeter, so wealthy families from the city could visit easily. Its beach stretched for two miles, offering plenty of space for bathing machines, promenades, and leisurely walks. Its climate was mild, sheltered by surrounding hills, and the town began to attract seasonal visitors.

Grand houses, terraces, and hotels soon appeared along the seafront. Lodging houses catered to those who came for the season, and guides extolled the virtues of Exmouth’s sea air. By the late 18th century, the town had become firmly established as a holiday retreat, rivalling other early resorts such as Weymouth and Sidmouth.

The Victorian Boom

Exmouth Railway Station – terminus for the Avocet Line

The arrival of the railway in 1861 transformed Exmouth from a genteel retreat into a bustling seaside town. Suddenly, visitors could reach the town in just a few hours from London or the Midlands. Working-class families, previously excluded from coastal holidays, began to arrive in large numbers.

To cater for this influx, Exmouth expanded rapidly. The seafront promenade was developed, with gardens, shelters, and amusements. Theatres, concert halls, and later cinemas entertained visitors on rainy days. Bathing continued to be popular, but so too did donkey rides, boat trips, and other amusements, many of which are still available today.

Victorian Exmouth retained a reputation for elegance, but it also embraced the bustle of mass tourism. Its wide beach became one of its greatest assets, drawing families who returned year after year. By the end of the century, Exmouth had firmly established itself as a classic English seaside town.

The History of Exmouth Docks and Marina

Exmouth Marina – Still used by commercial craft, including Becci of Ladram, which is still berthed here.

Alongside tourism, Exmouth remained a working harbour. In the 1860s, local businessmen launched an ambitious project to create a formal dock, which led to the formation of the Devon Dock, Pier, and Steamship Company. An Act of Parliament authorised the scheme, and remarkably, the docks were built and operational within a year.

For more than a century, Exmouth Docks bustled with activity. Coal arrived from South Wales, while herring and shellfish were landed by local boats. Other cargoes, such as timber and agricultural produce, also passed through the quays. A dedicated railway link carried goods to Exeter and beyond, and a thriving dockside community, including 125 privately owned chalets, grew up around the basin.

The docks thrived well into the 20th century. At their peak, more than 600 vessels a year used the harbour. But as ships grew larger, Exmouth’s basin and entrance channel proved too small to accommodate them. By the late 1980s, surveys revealed the dock walls were at risk of collapse. In 1990, the 700-ton Star Libra became the last commercial vessel to sail, closing a chapter in Exmouth’s history as a working port.

The story didn’t end there. The docks were redeveloped into the Exmouth Quay Estate, a modern residential and leisure complex of more than 300 waterfront homes and flats. The basin was converted into Exmouth Marina, with pontoons for yachts and pleasure craft. Today, the marina is a lively part of the town, lined with restaurants and cafés, yet it retains a link to its heritage. Fishing boats, such as Becci of Ladram, still berth here, and the Exmouth Mussels Company continues to operate from the dockside, keeping a thread of continuity with centuries of maritime life.

The 20th Century: Challenges and Change

Exmouth War Memorial on The Strand

The 20th century brought mixed fortunes for Exmouth. The outbreak of the two World Wars disrupted tourism and daily life, but the town played an important role in wartime defence and supply. During the First World War, local men served at sea and along the coast, while the estuary was utilised for training purposes. The Second World War brought heavier impacts: air raids damaged parts of the town, and troops trained on the beaches in preparation for D-Day.

In the interwar years, however, Exmouth thrived as a seaside destination. The expansion of the railway made affordable excursions possible, drawing thousands of day-trippers from Exeter and beyond. The seafront bustled with visitors enjoying theatres, tea rooms, and bathing machines, while guesthouses and hotels benefited from a steady trade.

After 1945, the rise of foreign package holidays posed stiff competition, and like many English resorts, Exmouth faced a period of adjustment. The town responded with investment in new leisure facilities, including modern attractions and improvements to the promenade. In later decades, the creation of the marina further revitalised the waterfront, drawing both visitors and boating enthusiasts.

Exmouth Today

Today, Exmouth is a town that has changed with the times. Fishing boats still operate from the estuary, and the redeveloped docks now serve as a marina and residential quarter. The Georgian terraces and Victorian gardens remain as elegant reminders of the town’s heyday, while watersports, festivals, and nature tourism add new dimensions.

For visitors, Exmouth offers both history and recreation. The two-mile sandy beach remains the centrepiece, just as it has for generations. At the same time, the town’s rich history, from fishing village to pioneering Victorian resort, from working port to modern marina, gives it a unique character.

What to See and Do in Exmouth

Exmouth Beach

One of the biggest reasons to visit Exmouth is its beach – two miles of golden sand that stretch along the seafront. What is there to do at Exmouth Beach? Plenty:

Swimming and paddling in safe, shallow waters.
Kitesurfing and windsurfing (Exmouth is one of the UK’s top spots).
Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking.
Cycling – A cycle path extends the length of the seafront.
Rock-pooling at low tide.
Walking the promenade – lined with cafés, amusements, and ice cream stands.
Dog walking – some areas are dog-friendly year-round.

The beach is family-friendly, with RNLI lifeguards on duty during the summer, and facilities include toilets, lockers (provided by the lifeboat station), water refill points, beach huts, beachside cafés, and equipment hire.

Just some of the watersports and outdoor activity providers:

Exmouth Watersports – Offers windsurfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, mega SUPs, lessons and equipment hire.
Edge Watersports — Provides lessons, hire and events in kitesurfing, paddleboarding, and related watersports.
Exewake — Specialist centre for wakeboarding and waterskiing on the Exe Estuary, with towable water sports and floating barge setups.
Exe Powerboat & Ski Club – RYA-affiliated club at Exmouth Marina offering powerboating, water-skiing, wakeboarding, and social facilities.
Exe Sailing Club – Established club on Shelly Road with dinghy and cruiser racing, training, and strong youth programmes.
Sail Exmouth – RYA centre providing sailing and powerboat tuition for all ages, from beginners to advanced courses.
Exmouth Cycles / Exmouth Cycle Hire — Centrally based shop offering bikes for hire (including e-bikes), local route advice, child seats, trailers etc.
The Cycle Hive — Operates a click & collect bike hire service (they bring the bikes to you) for more flexibility.

Cycling in and around Exmouth

Exe Estuary Trail One of Devon’s most popular routes, this largely flat, traffic-free trail runs from Exmouth to Exeter (around 11 miles) and continues to Dawlish Warren on the opposite bank. Hugging the estuary, it offers stunning views, bird-watching opportunities, and passes through villages like Lympstone and Topsham, making it ideal for family rides.

Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton (Railway Cycle Track) This 5-mile trail follows the route of a disused railway line. Shaded by trees and sheltered from traffic, it’s a peaceful route connecting Exmouth to the charming seaside town of Budleigh Salterton. Perfect for a short ride or as part of a longer East Devon exploration.

Exmouth Seafront Cycle Route Running the length of Exmouth’s two-mile sandy beach, this flat, paved path is perfect for leisurely cycling. It connects the town with the estuary and Orcombe Point, offering plenty of spots to stop for ice cream, cafés, or simply to admire the sea views.

Exmouth Royal National Lifeboat Institute Station

Exmouth RNLI & Lifeboat History

Exmouth’s lifeboat legacy began in 1803 when a Greathead-designed lifeboat was first stationed, though that early service lapsed after the original boathouse was lost in a storm in 1814. The RNLI revived the station in 1858, and over the years the crews have earned seven medals for bravery.

In 2009, a modern station opened on Queen’s Drive, giving direct access to the beach for faster launches. The current all-weather lifeboat is the Shannon-class R & J Welburn, and the inshore craft is George Bearman II (D805), which can reach speeds of up to 25 knots.

The Shannon Class

The Shannon is the newest generation of RNLI all-weather lifeboat. Introduced in 2013 and named after the River Shannon in Ireland, it is the first RNLI lifeboat powered by waterjets rather than propellers. This gives it excellent manoeuvrability and allows it to operate safely in shallow waters. The Shannon has a top speed of 25 knots, a range of 250 nautical miles, and can carry up to 23 survivors alongside its crew of six volunteers. At Exmouth, the R & J Welburn entered service in 2014, replacing the older Mersey-class boat.

Before 2009

For much of the 20th century, Exmouth’s all-weather lifeboat was moored afloat in the River Exe near the docks, with crews ferried out by a smaller boat. The old beach boathouse, first built in 1903, later became a display centre and from 1966 housed the inshore lifeboat. By the 1990s, shallow water at the river mouth and outdated facilities made launches difficult, so temporary structures supported operations until the purpose-built station opened on Queen’s Drive in 2009.

Visiting

The Visitor Centre and RNLI shop are usually open daily (times vary seasonally). Inside you’ll find interactive displays, souvenirs, and information about the crews. From the seafront you can often watch lifeboat training launches, and during special open days visitors can meet the crew and see the boats up close.

👉 For current opening hours and events, check exmouthlifeboat.org.uk or the RNLI website.

What to See & Do at Orcombe Point

Orcombe Point, Exmouth

Geological Landmark
Orcombe Point marks the westernmost end of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches from Exmouth to Poole in Dorset. Because of the tilt and erosion of rock layers, it’s one of the few places you can literally walk through 185 million years of geological time, from the Triassic, through the Jurassic, to the Cretaceous periods.

The Three Great Periods of the Jurassic Coast

Triassic (252–201 million years ago)
Red desert sandstones were laid down when this part of the world was a hot, arid desert. Their colour comes from iron oxide, giving the cliffs around Exmouth and Orcombe Point their striking red hue.
Jurassic (201–145 million years ago)
Famous for fossils, this period saw warm seas cover much of southern England. Clays, limestones, and shales from this era preserve ammonites, marine reptiles, and even traces of ancient forests.
Cretaceous (145–66 million years ago)
The youngest rocks of the coast formed in shallow seas rich with life. Chalk and limestone cliffs, such as those at Beer Head, belong to this period, marking the age of dinosaurs and the first flowering plants.

Together, these layers record 185 million years of changing climates, landscapes, and life on Earth, which is why the Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Geoneedle

The Geo Needle at Orcombe Point, Exmouth

A striking modern sculpture called the Geoneedle stands atop the cliffs at Orcombe Point. It was unveiled by Prince Charles in 2002 and is composed of various rock types collected along the Jurassic Coast, symbolising the geological sequence in this area. Approaching the Geoneedle, you’ll find a “Jurassic Coast hopscotch” path, featuring different stones that represent various geological ages—a fun and educational way to walk through the timeline of Earth’s history.

Walking & Views – Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton on the South West Coast Path.

Starting from Exmouth seafront, this beautiful walk follows the South West Coast Path eastwards, climbing past the Geoneedle at Orcombe Point and the holiday park at Ladram Bay before continuing up and along striking red sandstone cliffs with panoramic sea views. The path winds gently down into Budleigh Salterton after about five miles, a journey that usually takes two to three hours at a steady pace.

Once in Budleigh, you can either hop on a Stagecoach bus back to Exmouth (the bus stop is opposite the Town Hall), a ride of around twenty minutes, or return more leisurely on foot along the old railway line. This tree-lined track provides a flat and sheltered route of roughly five miles, taking around two and a half hours. Together, the two routes create a varied and enjoyable circular outing, combining dramatic coastal scenery with a gentler inland return.

Connecting Beaches
To the west is Exmouth Beach, and to the east lies Sandy Bay and the Haven, Devon Cliffs Holiday Park. The coast path walk between the two is about 2 miles (3.2km) and not too strenuous. At low tide, the strand between them can be crossed, linking these two beaches beneath Orcombe Point.

Wildlife & Nature
The cliff and meadow habitats support a diverse array of wildlife, including butterflies, wildflowers, and coastal birds, which are often seen. Especially in spring and summer, the meadows burst into colour, and the cliffs are a lovely place for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Devon Cliffs Holiday Park seen from the South West Coast Path.

Other Activities

World of Country Life

Located near Sandy Bay, Exmouth, World of Country Life is an award-winning, all-weather family attraction. Visitors can enjoy hands-on farm encounters, from feeding lambs and goats to walking among deer, alongside fascinating vintage transport and farming displays. With indoor and outdoor play areas, seasonal events, and easy access from the Jurassic Coast, it’s a fun day out for all ages.

Boat Trips

Stuart Line Cruises operate year-round.

Based in Exmouth, Stuart Line Cruises has been sailing Devon’s waters for over 50 years, offering a wide range of boat trips throughout the year. Their cruises explore the River Exe, the South Devon coastline, and the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast, giving passengers the chance to enjoy spectacular scenery, spot wildlife, and learn about local history from onboard commentary. With everything from relaxing daytime sailings to themed evening events and private charters, Stuart Line Cruises provides a memorable way to experience the region from the water.

The Exe Estuary Trail

For walkers and cyclists, the Exe Estuary Trail is unmissable. Running from Exmouth to Exeter (and on the opposite bank Exeter to Dawlish Warren, the trail follows the water’s edge, passing bird reserves, picturesque villages such as Lympstone, Topsham and pubs. It’s popular with birdwatchers – waders and wildfowl thrive here.

The Starcross to Exmouth Ferry

Linking to to the Exe Estuary Trail on the opposite side of the River Exe, the Starcross to Exmouth Ferry offers a scenic 15–20 minute crossing of the Exe Estuary, running seasonally between Starcross Pier (by the railway station) and Exmouth Marina. It’s a practical shortcut for walkers and cyclists as well as a leisurely trip with great views of local wildlife and estuary landscapes.

A La Ronde

Just outside Exmouth, A La Ronde is an unusual 16-sided Georgian house built in the 1790s by cousins Jane and Mary Parminter after they travelled in Europe. Now cared for by the National Trust, the property is filled with quirky collections, including the famous Shell Gallery, and surrounded by gardens with sweeping views over the Exe estuary. A La Ronde offers a fascinating glimpse into eccentric design, women’s history, and life in 18th-century Devon.

Exmouth Town Centre & Shopping

Does Exmouth have a town centre?

The Strand. Café culture, alive and well in Exmouth.

Yes, Exmouth has a lively town centre focused around The Strand. This pedestrian-friendly square, with its almost continental feel, is home to a variety of cafes, shops, and events.

What shops are there in Exmouth, Devon?

Exmouth’s shopping mix includes:

High street names like Boots and New Look.
Supermarkets for essentials.
Independent boutiques and gift shops.
Bookshops, bakeries, and local delis.

While it’s not a major retail destination like Exeter, Exmouth is good for browsing, picking up beach essentials, or finding unique gifts.

Exmouth Market

Exmouth Indoor Market has been part of the town’s life since 1980. It was founded by local garage owner Michael Miller, who transformed his business premises into a community indoor market. Over time, his son, Jerry, took on management, and the market became known as a place where new businesses and entrepreneurs could start small before expanding into bigger ventures.

Today, the market features around 30 stalls under one roof, offering a diverse range of products, including fresh local produce, artisanal foods, crafts, clothing, gifts, and everyday essentials. The friendly, undercover setting makes it a great spot to browse, regardless of the weather.

Exmouth Indoor Market – Well worth a visit

Seasonal Highlights & Annual Events

Exmouth hosts several events that bring the town alive:

Exmouth Festival (late May/early June) – Free music, arts, and food.
Christmas Village – Exmouth Christmas Village (13th–31st December 2025) transforms the town centre into a festive hub, with over 80 indoor market stalls offering handcrafted goods, live entertainment, seasonal food and drinks, and a community event space. It also hosts a lively New Year’s celebration, complete with music, performances, and fancy dress, making the village a focal point for both holiday cheer and local culture.

Getting There & Getting Around

By Train: Enjoy a scenic journey alongside the River Exe on the Avocet Line. This offers direct services from Exeter (around 25 minutes). From London, change at Exeter St Davids.
By Car: Follow the M5 to Exeter, then the A376 to Exmouth.
By Bus: Regular services connect Exmouth with Exeter, Sidmouth, and Budleigh Salterton.
On Foot/Bike: The South West Coast Path and Exe Estuary Trail make walking and cycling popular.

Once in town, most attractions, the beach, the town centre and the marina are walkable.

Eating and Drinking

The Rockfish Restaurant

Exmouth’s dining scene now combines a strong coastal identity with a growing list of standout venues. Fresh seafood remains at the heart of the offer – Rockfish serves day-boat fish and shellfish in a chic waterfront setting; the town now also offers sophisticated alternatives. Saveur, with its two AA rosettes, provides an intimate, fine-dining European experience in the town centre.

The River Exe Café is a floating, seasonal restaurant that operates from spring through to the autumn, but closes during the winter months. Guests can enjoy fresh local seafood and panoramic estuary views, reached only by water taxi. Its off-season closure makes it a summer highlight and one of Exmouth’s most memorable dining experiences.

By complete contrast, on the more casual side, the Harbour View Café & Chip Shop is dog-friendly and popular with winter walkers, offering beach views, fresh fish and chips, and simple café fare. Meanwhile, The Ocean’s bar (The Engine Room / The Deck above) bridges the gap between relaxed and refined, serving local beers, elevated small plates, and full dinners with panoramic sea views.

Exmouth’s Sideshore development

You could also try Heydays, located at Exmouth’s Sideshore development, which offers stylish all-day dining with sweeping sea views and generous outdoor seating, creating a refined yet relaxed setting for everything from leisurely breakfasts to sunset cocktails by the water. Alongside Heydays, Sideshore is also home to Hangtime Café. This welcoming spot specialises in locally roasted coffee, fresh juices, ice creams and wholesome bites in a laid-back beachfront setting.

Both venues are part of the wider Sideshore community hub — a not-for-profit eco-development designed to give back to Exmouth. With sustainable design, solar power, and a programme of community events, Sideshore has become more than just a dining destination: it’s a space where visitors and locals come together to enjoy food, watersports, and the seafront in a way that celebrates both people and place. We particularly appreciate the water bottle refill tap!

Altogether, these and the many other venues help shape Exmouth’s evolving reputation as a seaside town that’s just as serious about food as it is about the sunshine and sea.

A British Tradition – Fish & Chips

Fish and chips are more than just a meal, they’re a British tradition not to be missed. In seaside towns like Exmouth, the experience is as important as the food itself. The classic order is cod or haddock, fried until golden, served with thick-cut chips and a choice of salt and vinegar. Mushy peas, curry sauce, or gravy are popular extras, though opinions on the “right” side can be fiercely defended.

Takeaway is part of the ritual. Many prefer their fish and chips wrapped in paper, eaten outdoors by the beach or harbour. The key is to eat them hot and fresh, ideally straight from the box, with a wooden fork or simply with your fingers. Just remember to guard your portion from opportunistic seagulls.

Finally, “etiquette” is simple: queue patiently, don’t expect fine-dining formality, and embrace the informality that makes fish and chips so beloved. Whether enjoyed from a bench overlooking the sea or in a traditional chippy with Formica tables, the meal is a shared slice of British culture.

Where to Stay

The Imperial Hotel, Exmouth

Accommodation in Exmouth suits every budget and style of stay. Families often gravitate towards Devon Cliffs Holiday Park, a popular Haven resort set above the cliffs with pools, restaurants, nightly entertainment, and direct access to Sandy Bay beach.

For those who prefer the convenience of a town-centre base, the Premier Inn Exmouth offers reliable comfort right on the seafront and within easy walking distance of the town centre. Couples and visitors seeking period charm may choose the Imperial Hotel, a Victorian landmark overlooking the Esplanade, where sea-view rooms add a touch of grandeur to a coastal break.

Smaller guesthouses and B&Bs provide more intimate experiences, each with its own character. Self-catering cottages and serviced apartments are also available, offering flexibility for more extended stays or family groups seeking a home-from-home by the sea.

For those travelling on a tighter budget or with a love of the outdoors, caravan and camping parks around Exmouth and nearby East Devon countryside offer excellent value and a chance to enjoy the area’s natural beauty up close.

Weather in Exmouth

Exmouth enjoys one of the UK’s mildest climates. Summers are warm but not (usually) extreme, while winters are relatively gentle. For a reliable weather forecast, check out BBC Weather Exmouth Devon before planning trips. The Exmouth webcam is another handy tool for viewing beach conditions in real-time.

Practicalities & other helpful links

🛍️ Shops & Supermarkets – A mix of high street chains, independents, and markets
🏥 Nearest Hospital – Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital; Minor Injuries Unit at Exmouth Hospital, Claremont Grove, EX8 2JN
🚔 Nearest Police Station – Exmouth Police Station, 19 Market Street
💊 Pharmacies – Several located in the town centre
✈️ Nearest Airport – Exeter International Airport, around 12 miles away
🚆 Railway Station – Exmouth Station, terminus of the Avocet Line
🚌 Bus Services – Stagecoach routes connect Exmouth with Exeter and coastal towns
🅿️ Car Parks – Multiple sites in town and along the seafront
⛽ Petrol & EV Charging – Available within the town
💵 Banks & ATMs – Clustered in and around The Strand
📮 Post Office – Situated in the town centre
🚻 Public Toilets – Found along the seafront and within town
🚶 Tourist Information Centre – The Strand, Exmouth

Exmouth, England FAQs

Where is Exmouth?

Exmouth is in East Devon on England’s south coast, about 12 miles south of Exeter, at the mouth of the River Exe and the western end of the Jurassic Coast.

What to see in Exmouth

Start at the Geoneedle at Orcombe Point, stroll the long sandy seafront and promenade, explore the marina cafés, enjoy Exe Estuary views and visit A La Ronde (National Trust).

What to do in Exmouth

Swim and paddleboard on the main beach, walk the South West Coast Path towards Budleigh Salterton, cycle the Exe Estuary Trail to Lympstone or Exeter, and take river or coastal cruises.

Where to stay in Exmouth

For a central, budget-friendly base, Premier Inn Exmouth (seafront) is steps from the promenade. For period charm, the Imperial Hotel Exmouth overlooks the Esplanade with sea-view rooms. Choose seafront hotels and guesthouses near the promenade, town-centre B&Bs for easy dining, self-catering apartments by the marina, or holiday parks around Sandy Bay and Littleham.

How long is Exmouth beach?

About two miles (roughly 3.2 km) from the River Exe mouth to Orcombe Point.

When is the best time to visit Exmouth?

Late spring to early autumn suits beach days and boat trips. Autumn light is ideal for walks; winter is quieter and good for birdwatching on the estuary.

Is Exmouth good for families?

Yes. The main beach is wide and sandy with level promenades, nearby play areas and plenty of cafés and facilities within a short walk.

How do I get to Exmouth without a car?

Use the Avocet Line train from Exeter St Davids or Exeter Central (about 25–35 minutes). Frequent buses also link Exmouth with nearby towns and villages.

Where can I park?

Town-centre and seafront car parks serve most sights. Long stay by Exmouth Railway Station. Spaces fill quickly on sunny weekends and school holidays—arrive early and follow local signage.

Are dogs allowed on Exmouth beach?

Yes, with seasonal zones. Dogs are welcome year-round on signed sections at each end of the main beach; summer restrictions apply in central areas.

Does the Exe Estuary Trail run through Exmouth?

Yes. It links Exmouth with Lympstone and Exeter for walking and cycling, mostly on level, shared-use paths with big estuary views.

Can I walk to Budleigh Salterton from Exmouth?

Yes. Follow the South West Coast Path over the headland or use the inland shared-use route towards Littleham and on to Budleigh Salterton.

Are there boat trips or a ferry?

Seasonal river and coastal cruises run from the marina and seafront. The Starcross foot/cycle ferry (seasonal) crosses the estuary. Check times locally.

Is the seafront accessible?

Promenades are largely level and step-free. Some access points use ramps; soft sand can make wheelchair access difficult away from paths.

Where can I eat and drink?

Seafront cafés, casual dining and pubs cluster around the marina and town centre, with more options in side streets just off the beach.

What about tides and safety?

Check tide times before long beach walks or estuary trips. Follow lifeguard advice where present and be mindful of currents and mudflats.

Final Thoughts

So, is Exmouth, Devon, worth visiting? Absolutely. With its golden sands, thriving town centre, lively markets, and welcoming community, Exmouth is one of Devon’s standout seaside towns.

For holidaymakers, it offers beaches, attractions, and affordable accommodation.
For shoppers, the town centre, independent retailers, and markets offer a diverse range of options.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the estuary, coast path, and watersports make it an ideal destination.

Whether you’re spending a day at Exmouth Beach, a week at Exmouth Devon Cliffs Holiday Park, Exmouth combines history, natural beauty, and modern holiday convenience in one destination. We love it!

Over to you … have you recently travelled to South West England? What worked for you? What advice would you give to others? Please leave your comments below or join in the discussion in our Facebook Group.

New to South West England or returning after a while? Start with our ‘Travel Basics’ – quick guides packed with tips to help you plan your trip.

Exmouth, Devon Travel Guide | Top Things to Do

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