Autumnal Day Trips From Exeter
Castle Drogo Circular Walk
Autumn is when Dartmoor really comes into its own, as the verdant landscape slowly turns to stunning shades of ochre and burnt orange. Carpets of leaves line the trails, and kids (and adults!) will love scrunching through them in their wellies. At only 30 minutes drive from Exeter, the circular walk encompassing Castle Drogo and Fingle Bridge is an ideal one for all the family. The walk skirts the gently bubbling River Teign, before heading above the trees for 360 views of the surrounding fields and moors. What better way to warm up that a hot chocolate at Castle Drogo café, with free parking for National Trust members.
Exmouth World of Country Life
If you are after an all-weather, all-ages day trip from Exeter, look no further than the Exmouth World of Country Life. There is the chance to run around the Maze, watch animals racing and cuddle rabbits and guinea pigs, as well as discover how farming and rural life used to take place in the Victorian age. If the little ones are still bursting with energy, a visit to the soft play should tire them out! With numerous activities both inside and outside, you can still have a great day whatever the weather. Make the most of it with an annual pass and keep the fun going all year long!
Wine tasting at Sandridge Barton
What better way to spend an autumnal day that at a picturesque vineyard, learning about the wine-making process and then enjoying a tasting, alongside a sampling of cheese? Autumn is the perfect time to enjoy a wine tour and tasting, as it’s right in the middle of the harvest season. Sandridge Barton Vineyard is located near Stoke Gabriel, close to the banks of the River Dart and surrounded by glorious countryside; there is also a self-guided walk around the grounds to truly take in the vineyard’s beauty.
Catch some waves!
Devon is home to some of the best surf breaks in the UK and autumn is the ideal time to catch some waves. The crowds of summer are no longer, meaning wide stretches of wide, open sandy beaches and an empty surf lineup await those who are brave enough to still get in the sea! Woolacombe and Saunton Sands are perennial favourites with all the family, with lifeguards and surf hire shops in abundance. At only an hour and a half away, surfing is an ideal day trip from Exeter, and the adrenaline rush from riding a wave right into the shore will have you buzzing the whole journey back!
Visit Darts Farm
Based a little closer to Exeter, near the beautiful village of Topsham, Darts Farm is a great place to spend the day if the weather closes in! Wander around the well-stocked farm shop, full of local, artisan produce, from premium cuts of beef, locally distilled gin, and specialty chocolate. There are also numerous places to dine on-site, from The Fish Shed to the Cow & Cacao café – you won’t go hungry! Darts Farm is also home to a beautiful lifestyle section, where you can browse their range of AGAs, delve into a gardening book, or find the perfect gift for a loved one.
Autumn is the ideal time to take a day trip from Exeter, but if you would prefer to stay closer to home, then make sure to check out our great blog about what’s on in Exeter in autumn.