A guide to Exmouth

Did you know?

  • 1.
    The name of the town can be traced to pre Saxon times and derives from its location at the mouth of the River Exe estuary, which ultimately comes from an ancient Celtic word for fish.
  • 2.
    Exmouth is reputedly the oldest seaside resort in Britain and has the longest seafront in Devon and Cornwall with over two miles of golden sand.
  • 3.
    Before the 1700s, Exmouth was a small fishing town and is the location from where Sir Walter Raleigh commenced many of his voyages.

Exmouth Area

Exmouth is a picturesque seaside town set at the mouth of the River Exe in East Devon, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the start point of the Jurassic Coast. The area is accessible by both road and rail and is a popular destination for tourists from all around the UK, especially for scenic walks along the coast and various outdoor water-sport activities.

Surrounding Villages

  • East Budleigh
    This pretty village is situated just three miles to the east of Exmouth and is the birthplace of Sir Walter Raleigh. There are two pubs, a primary school, an active village hall, and a community shop. It is also just two miles from the sea, with the coastal towns of Sidmouth and Budleigh Salterton nearby.
  • Woodbury
    A beautiful commuter village bordered by a large common of heathland offering fabulous walks and riding. This primarily residential village has two pubs, a primary school, an antiques shop, a post office and general stores.
  • Lympstone
    This historic village is on the east side of the Exe Estuary. The pretty riverside houses back directly onto the shore, and are fortified with metal flood gates that are closed by residents when they are warned of high tides by a local alert network. On the village edge is the Commando Training Centre for Royal Marines.

Lifestyle

  • Shopping

    Exmouth has a wide variety of shops for your everyday necessities, including a large supermarket and M&S Food.

    Exmouth is soon to have its own Kite Surfing School on the beach and there are already shops on the seafront selling beach and surfing equipment. There is a permanent indoor daily weekly market selling a wide range of produce.

  • Eating

    Lympstone Manor

    One of the most popular restaurants in Devon, this restored manor house is owned and run by Michelin starred chef, Michael Caines and also offers 4* accommodation.

    The Point

    Located in the marina selling a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes as well as hosting quiz and music nights.

    The River Exe Cafe

    A floating barge in the Exe Estuary serving a variety of fresh seafood with a good wine list. Accessed by water taxi from The Point, or your own boat.

  • Drinking

    The Beach

    Renowned for friendly service and award-winning food using the best fresh ingredients, with a menu that reflects the season and availability of local produce.

    The Heavitree

    This pub manages to combine being a pub for locals as well as a destination for delicious food, including a great Sunday roast menu.

    The Grapevine Brewhouse

    Set in the heart of Exmouth, this pub has a busy bar mixing the traditional and the new by serving own brewed local ales and bistro style food.

Travel

  • Trains

    Exmouth to Exeter Central within 23 minutes.

  • Other transport

    Access to M5 at Exeter. Regular bus service along the A376.