Starcross to Exeter Walk

The Starcross to Exeter walk is one of the most beautiful and exciting walks in Devon. Starcross is quite a large village situated between Exeter and Dawlish. Further along from Starcross on the Exe Estuary is the internationally important site designated for its special birdlife. In Starcross is the remaining pumping station from Brunel's famous Atmospheric Railway and close by the rail station is the pick-up point for the Starcross Ferry, which takes foot passengers across to Exmouth on the opposite bank of the River Exe Estuary.

Once in Exmouth you might like to try the Exe Trail from Exmouth to Lympstone, soon to be extended to Exton, then later to Ebford and finally back to Topsham to link up with Exeter. The two sides of the Exe Estuary could be a very good couple of days' walking, maybe staying over in Exeter and checking out the great landmarks in Devon's regional capital.

Once all the links are connected it will give a 26-mile Exe Trail starting at Starcross via Exeter to Exmouth in a horseshoe of delights.

There are shorter walks along the Exe Estuary by making use of the many ferry services, along with water taxis from near Exminister to Topsham. There are circular cruises from Exmouth up the River Exe and also guided birdwatching and day trips calling at local towns.

At the start of the walk there are great views across the Exe Estuary, with parkland and marshes to the left in the opposite direction. Be sure to check out the herd of deer along the way in the Powderham Castle grounds.

Then after reaching the middle section of the walk there is marshland along near the Turf Lock Hotel; this once provided the accommodation for the lock-keeper. This is the start of one of England's oldest pound lock canals, built in 1560. It then gives glimpses of the mouth of the Exe Estuary with the River Exe running in parallel with the Exeter Ship Canal.

Finally the last section is moving more into the urban area of Exeter, with the canal basin and up to the quayside, but this still maintains its green area. Slowly meandering along the footpaths, look for a view of Exeter Cathedral in the distance; this is very prominent, looking out over the City of Exeter.

England - South West England - Devon - Countryside

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Walk id: 4958

Walk grade

Easy Walk

Length

7.2 Miles

Height gain

17 Metres

Duration

2 Hours 54 Mins

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