Best Cycle Routes in Exeter and the Surrounding Area

As a compact city, cycling is one of the best ways to explore Exeter and the surrounding area. Within the city, a growing network of cycle routes connects key destinations including Exeter St David’s, the University of Exeter, the city centre, the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital and Exeter Quayside.

For a longer day out, routes lead beyond the city through the Exe Valley and along both sides of the Exe Estuary towards Exmouth and Dawlish Warren.

Exeter is a hilly city, so some journeys can involve a climb. However, the routes beside the River Exe, Exeter Ship Canal and Exe Estuary offer flatter alternatives, with substantial traffic-free sections and plenty to see along the way.

Below, we have separated our recommendations into the best cycle routes within Exeter and longer routes which take you outside the city.

Cycle Routes Within Exeter

Exeter Quayside and Ship Canal

For a gentle and largely traffic-free ride, Exeter Quayside is one of the best places to start.

From the historic quayside, you can follow the shared path alongside the River Exe and Exeter Ship Canal towards Double Locks. Continue further and the route will take you through Riverside Valley Park towards Countess Wear, the Exminster Marshes and Turf Locks.

The level route makes it a good choice for families, beginners and anyone looking for a more relaxed ride. It can also be adapted to suit the time available, whether you cycle to Double Locks and back or continue to The Turf for a longer outing.

The canal route also connects with National Cycle Network Route 2, providing access to Topsham and the wider Exe Estuary Trail.

Exeter St David’s to the University and East Exeter

The E4 Strategic Cycle Route is designed to connect Exeter St David’s station with the University of Exeter, Stoke Hill, Beacon Heath, Exeter Arena and Exeter Science Park.

This is a useful cross-city route for visitors travelling between the station, city and University of Exeter. It also passes close to The Forum, at the heart of the University’s Streatham Campus.

The corridor includes a mixture of dedicated cycle infrastructure, shared paths and quieter roads. Some parts of the wider E4 route are still being developed, so it is worth checking the latest Devon County Council E4 information before travelling.

Be prepared for a climb between Exeter St David’s and the Streatham Campus. If you are using an electric bike, this is one journey where the additional assistance can be particularly welcome.

City Centre to the RD&E, Pynes Hill and Newcourt

The E9 Strategic Cycle Route connects Exeter city centre with St Leonards, the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Wonford, Pynes Hill and Newcourt, with links towards Topsham.

Rather than being a single traffic-free trail, the route combines residential roads, shared paths, traffic-calmed areas and dedicated cycle infrastructure. This makes it particularly useful for travelling between neighbourhoods and major destinations in the south and east of the city.

The route also provides access to Ludwell Valley Park, offering a greener alternative to some of Exeter’s busier main roads.

As improvements to Exeter’s strategic cycle network are continuing, consult Devon County Council’s Exeter Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan when planning your journey.

Cycle Routes Outside Exeter

Exeter to Exmouth Along the Exe Estuary Trail

The cycle route from Exeter to Exmouth along the Exe Estuary Trail is a must for anyone wanting to leave the city and spend a day exploring the Exe Estuary.

Starting around Exeter Quayside, the eastern side of the trail passes through Topsham, Exton and Lympstone before reaching Exmouth, approximately 13 miles from Exeter. The route is fairly flat, with long traffic-free stretches and views across the river, estuary and surrounding marshes.

There are cafés and pubs along the way if you need a break, while Exmouth offers plenty of opportunities to refuel before the journey home.

The route is well signposted as part of National Cycle Network Route 2, but we still recommend checking a current map before setting off. You can cycle back to Exeter or check whether you can return by train. If travelling with a bike, consult the train operator’s current cycle policy before your journey.

Exeter to Dawlish Warren Along the Exe Estuary Trail

The western side of the Exe Estuary Trail leads from Exeter towards Dawlish Warren.

Beginning at Exeter Quayside, follow the Exeter Ship Canal past Double Locks and towards Turf Locks. The route continues alongside the Exminster Marshes before passing Powderham Castle and heading towards Starcross and Dawlish Warren.

The trail offers wide estuary views and opportunities to spot wildlife throughout the year. Stop at the The Turf along the way or continue to Dawlish Warren, where you can relax on the beach before making the return journey.

The complete Exe Estuary Trail connects Dawlish Warren with Exmouth over approximately 22.5 miles. Not all sections are traffic-free, and surfaces can vary, so check the official Exe Estuary Trail route information before travelling.

The Thorverton Loop

For more confident cyclists looking for a rural road ride, the loop from Exeter to Thorverton provides a change from the flatter estuary routes.

The route heads north from Exeter into the Exe Valley, passing through countryside and villages including Brampford Speke and Thorverton before returning towards the city. Depending on the precise route followed, the loop is approximately 15 to 18 miles.

Unlike the canal and estuary trails, this is primarily a road route. It uses quieter country lanes but involves traffic, hills and sections where extra care is required. We recommend planning the route using a reliable cycling map or navigation app before setting off.

The Exe Valley Farm Shop near Thorverton provides a useful place to stop before beginning the return journey.

Bike Hire in Exeter

You can still enjoy Exeter’s cycle routes if you do not have your own bike.

Saddles & Paddles on Exeter Quay offers bike hire with direct access to the canal and estuary routes. Alternatively, Route 2 Bikes in Topsham also offer bike hire services. If hiring a bike, make sure the service you choose allows you to take it for the distance and length of time required for your planned route.

Planning Your Cycle Ride

Before setting off, check the latest route information and choose a ride suited to the confidence and experience of everyone in your group.

Remember that many of Exeter’s cycle paths are shared with pedestrians, runners and other users. Keep to an appropriate speed, give people space and take particular care around busy areas of the Quay and canal.

If you are travelling to or from the University, the University of Exeter’s cycling and bike travel information includes practical guidance on cycle routes, facilities and bike hire.

Routes, ferry services and access arrangements can change, so visit Travel Devon or explore the National Cycle Network for current maps and cycling information.

Whether you are travelling across the city, following the canal or heading towards the coast, Exeter offers plenty of opportunities to explore on two wheels.