Summer is soon dawning upon us, and the change of seasons supplies a variety of outdoor day trips that weren’t able to be accomplished during the cold winter. However, with exam revision, deadlines looming, and limited time left until the holidays, it can be difficult to know exactly where to go. No one wants to spend hours planning a trip at this busy time, so to help with this, I have created a guide on four of the best trips to do from Exeter.
1. Exmouth
The classic Uni of Exeter trip in the summer, Exmouth is the perfect place to unwind on the beach and let your revision stress melt away.
Things to do:
- Bring a picnic (either one prepared at home or stop off in M&S for some snacks)
- Have a drink in one of the pubs, (The Powder Monkey and Exmouth’s Wetherspoons are especially affordable for the student budget)
- If you don’t mind cold water, try swimming or paddleboarding – if you prefer to keep dry bring a ball or a book to keep entertained
- Go for ice cream (my personal favourite is the beachfront based Ice Creamery but be warned it can gain a large queue in the summer months)
- If you prefer to stay inside, try Ocean Exmouth. They offer bowling for £8.25 per person, and you can buy food from the Engine Room Cafe if you fancy a snack during the game. Booking online to get the best prices is recommended but they will allow walk-ins.
Transport: The easiest way to get to Exmouth is by getting the train from Exeter St Davids, with a typical journey time of 30 minutes.
2. Totnes
This eclectic town boasts an amazing array of little shops and cafes that are perfectly suited for a day of shopping with friends.
Things to do:
- Visit the charity and vintage shops. If you enjoy hippie or boho style fashion, it won’t be difficult to find stunning pieces here
- Go book-shopping. The East Gate bookshop has a lovely classics section for those wanting to pick up something more literary and Rowan Tree Bookshop specialises in titles for the more spiritually inclined. Totnes Oxfam also has great cheap options for a summer read.
- There is a wide variety of cafes and eateries available in Totnes. Try visiting Seed 2 Totnes for their all- you- can- eat vegetarian buffet or The Curator Cafe for authentic Italian sandwiches and coffee.
Transport: Hop on a 30–40 minute train from Exeter St Davids.
3. Topsham
Whether you are attempting the infamous ‘Topsham Ten’ or just fancy the riverside atmosphere, Topsham is a perfect place to soak up the sun.
Things to do:
- Go on a pub crawl. While the Topsham Ten may be a rite of passage for students and locals alike, omitting a few pubs or relaxing in a beer garden can make for a more casual experience. The Lighter Inn is a good option that has gorgeous views of the river (and does a great rum and coke!) If you are up for the challenge of the Ten though, make sure to eat and drink beforehand.
- Try one of the local walks down the river. You can adjust the distance based on your personal walking preferences and if you feel thirsty stop off in the Double Locks pub for a refreshing drink!
Transport: Topsham is the closest day trip on this list – only a 20 minute train journey from Exeter St Davids!
4. Sidmouth
A beautiful coastal town surrounded by the countryside, Sidmouth is the perfect place to visit if you want a scenic escape.
Things to do:
- Visit the beach. While it is not a sandy beach like Exmouth, the red cliffs add an interesting geographic element. If ice cream is what you are looking for as a bite to eat, try Taste Gelato for their everchanging flavour range or one of the many fish and chip spots for a seaside treat
- Walk up the high street. Sidmouth is full of charity shops which can contain some hidden gems. The Bagel Shop (which has now opened another location in Exeter!) and Winstone’s independent bookshop are also not worth missing (not to mention the delicious baked goods from Vinnicombes)
- If you want to go out of town, try visiting The Donkey Sanctuary. The Sidmouth Hopper bus runs regularly during the summer months (although run times can change in this area) and the last stop will drop you right outside the sanctuary. This is the perfect place to take anyone special in your life as not only can you spend the day hiking on the trails nearby, but you can also see and maybe even pet the adorable donkeys. (Plus, it’s free entry)
Transport: Sidmouth does not have a train station, so the easiest way to get there from Exeter is by bus. The 9A from Exeter Bus Station takes just over an hour. Alternatively, if you have access to a car, it is around a 45 minute drive.
As a Devon local myself, I have tried and tested every one of these trips and I hope that you enjoy creating new memories in these beautiful places.
