Walking Tour of Exmouth in East Devon

Tucked along the stunning coastline of East Devon, the walking tour of Exmouth promises an immersive exploration into the town’s captivating history and natural wonders. Starting from the Exmouth Tourist Information Center, this guided journey guides visitors through charming streets, uncovering tales of smugglers and pirates, and offering breathtaking views of the dramatic red sandstone cliffs at Orcombe Point. Whether you’re intrigued by the Maer Local Nature Reserve or eager to discover the picturesque Exmouth Beach, this walking tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich tapestry that makes Exmouth a true gem of the region. What secrets might this guided experience unveil?

Key Points

• Exmouth offers a guided walking tour showcasing the town’s rich history, natural beauty, and role in Devon’s tourism industry.
• The tour starts at the Exmouth Tourist Information Center and ends near the Exmouth Clock Tower and beach.
• Visitors explore the Maer Local Nature Reserve, learning about the Jurassic Coast’s geological history and local tales of smugglers and pirates.
• The tour provides scenic views of Exmouth’s iconic red sandstone cliffs and the vibrant Exe Estuary.
• The walking tour is highly rated, with all 10 reviews giving a perfect 5-star rating, and a flexible cancellation policy.

Location and Notable Features

Located in East Devon, England, the seaside town of Exmouth boasts striking red sandstone cliffs at Orcombe Point, marking the start of the renowned Jurassic Coast – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The town’s vibrant Exe Estuary is home to a wealth of birdlife, and a flat cycle path leads visitors through the stunning natural scenery to the nearby towns of Lympstone, Topsham, and Exeter.

With its rich history and picturesque setting, Exmouth has long been a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the area’s natural beauty and fascinating local stories.

Historical Significance

Exmouth’s tourism industry was the first in Devon and continues to thrive, inspired by the town’s dramatic ocean scenery and rich local history.

Stories of pirates, smugglers, and famous residents have captivated visitors for generations. The town’s unique landscape, including the red sandstone cliffs at Orcombe Point, has also played a significant role in its historical significance.

Some of the notable historical aspects of Exmouth include:

• Legends of smugglers and their secret coves along the Jurassic Coast
• Tales of infamous pirates who once roamed the Exe Estuary
• Accounts of famous residents who were drawn to the area’s natural beauty
• The town’s pioneering role in the development of Devon’s tourism industry

Meeting Point and End Point

The walking tour of Exmouth begins at the Exmouth Tourist Information center, located at 45A The Strand, EX8 1AL. This is the meeting point where visitors gather to embark on their exploration of the town’s rich history and natural beauty.

From here, the guided tour winds its way through the streets, leading participants to the Exmouth Clock Tower on the Esplanade, EX8 2SW, near the beach and various amenities.

This end point provides a picturesque backdrop for the conclusion of the tour, allowing visitors to further enjoy the charming seaside ambiance of Exmouth.

Exploring The Maer Local Nature Reserve

From the meeting point at the Exmouth Tourist Information center, the guided tour ventures into the nearby Maer Local Nature Reserve.

This 10-minute segment focuses on the area’s rich history, from tales of smugglers to the significance of the Jurassic Coast.

Visitors will:

• Discover the natural beauty of the reserve, with its diverse array of plant and animal life.
• Learn about the region’s geological history and the formation of the iconic red sandstone cliffs.
• Hear captivating stories of the area’s past, including the exploits of local smugglers and pirates.
• Gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of the Maer as part of the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Discovering Exmouth Beach

Leaving the Maer Local Nature Reserve, the guided tour now moves on to explore the vibrant Exmouth Beach.

The tour guide shares captivating tales of Exmouth’s past, when the town was a hub for pirates and smugglers taking advantage of its coastal location. Visitors learn about the history of Exmouth’s tourism industry, which began in the 18th century and has continued to thrive.

As the group walks along the Esplanade, they admire the picturesque views of the beach and the iconic red sandstone cliffs of Orcombe Point, which mark the start of the Jurassic Coast.

The tour culminates at the Exmouth Clock Tower, providing easy access to the beach and nearby amenities for further exploration.

Additional Walking From Town Centre

After exploring Exmouth Beach, the walking tour now moves into the town centre, allowing participants to discover additional points of interest.

From the beach, the tour heads towards the town, stopping at various locations to learn more about Exmouth’s history and culture. The guide shares intriguing stories, pointing out:

• The Exmouth Clock Tower, a local landmark
• Charming independent shops and cafes along the Esplanade
• The Alexandra Gardens, a picturesque green space
• Glimpses of Exmouth’s fishing heritage at the marina

This section of the tour offers a well-rounded experience, blending Exmouth’s natural beauty with its vibrant urban landscape and rich history.

Tour Capacity and Accessibility

The walking tour of Exmouth has a maximum capacity of 15 travelers. This is to ensure an intimate and personalized experience for participants.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. This is due to the uneven terrain and the need to navigate through narrow paths and steps.

Despite these accessibility limitations, the tour has received rave reviews, with all 10 reviews giving it a perfect 5-star rating.

Travelers highlight the engaging and knowledgeable guides, as well as the well-structured tour filled with fascinating historical facts and stories.

Reviews and Cancellation Policy

The walking tour of Exmouth has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with all 10 reviews awarding it a perfect 5-star rating.

Highlights from the reviews include:

• Engaging and knowledgeable guides who bring the local history to life
• Well-structured tour that covers a range of interesting topics and points of interest
• Fun and informative experience with plenty of interesting facts about Exmouth’s past
• Convenient tour length and meeting/end points near the town center and beach

The tour also offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the tour.

This provides travelers with peace of mind when booking their walking adventure in Exmouth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Approximate Duration of the Full Walking Tour?

The full walking tour of Exmouth lasts approximately 30 minutes, covering highlights like the Maer Local Nature Reserve and Exmouth Beach while sharing stories about the town’s history and tourism industry.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is allowed during the tour. Travelers are welcome to take photos throughout the experience to capture the scenic landscapes, historical sites, and any points of interest highlighted by the knowledgeable local guide.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available Along the Route?

There are public restroom facilities available at the start and end points of the tour, the Exmouth Tourist Information and Exmouth Clock Tower. However, there are no dedicated restrooms along the tour route itself.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Interests?

The tour can be customized to suit individual interests. The knowledgeable local guide is flexible and will adjust the itinerary to focus on the aspects that most interest each group or traveler.

What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The walking tour has no strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Participants should dress for potentially varied seaside conditions and be prepared to explore the scenic local nature reserve.

Recap

The Walking Tour of Exmouth in East Devon offers a captivating exploration of the town’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, visitors can enjoy Exmouth’s charming streets, discover tales of smugglers and pirates, and enjoy breathtaking views of the dramatic red sandstone cliffs. The tour’s highlights, including the Maer Local Nature Reserve and Exmouth Beach, make it an engaging and memorable experience for visitors seeking to uncover the unique character of this picturesque coastal town.