The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Exminster

There are over 20 family-friendly hiking routes around Exminster featured in this guide, with 13 of them specifically rated as easy, making them ideal for families with young children or those new to hiking.

Exminster offers a diverse range of natural landscapes perfect for families. You can explore the significant wetlands of the Exminster Marshes, enjoy tranquil riverside paths along the Exe Estuary and Exeter Canal, and discover woodland areas like Berry Brook. These areas are rich in wildlife, from various birds to damselflies and butterflies.

Yes, Exminster features several excellent circular routes. A popular choice is the Exeter Ship Canal & Turf Lock loop from Exminster, which offers a moderate 8.3 km (5.2 mi) walk. Another great option is the Turf Lock – Turf Hotel & Marina loop from Exminster, a moderate 9.1 km (5.7 mi) trail.

Absolutely! The Exminster Marshes, an RSPB nature reserve, is a prime location for wildlife spotting, especially birds like redshanks, lapwings, geese, and wigeons. The Exe Estuary is internationally important for wintering wading birds. Along Berry Brook, you might see 'Beautiful demoiselle' damselflies in summer, and Crockwells Meadow is home to various butterfly species. Bird hides are available at the marshes for observation.

Many of the trails in Exminster, particularly those along the Exe Estuary Trail and the Exeter Canal, are suitable for dog walkers. However, please be mindful of wildlife, especially in areas like the Exminster Marshes, and keep dogs on a lead where indicated or around livestock.

Along your family hikes, you can discover several interesting points. The historic Turf Lock and Turf Hotel are popular stops, often found on marsh walks. You can also catch views of Powderham Castle from the Exe Estuary Trail. For natural landmarks, consider visiting Orcombe Point and the Geoneedle or Cockwood Harbour, which are nearby highlights.

Yes, the Riverside walk along the River Exe – Topsham Lock Cottage loop from Exminster is an easy 7.6 km (4.7 mi) route that follows accessible paths. The historic Exeter Canal also offers accessible towpaths for easy, flat walks, perfect for families.

Parking is generally available at key access points for popular trails, such as near the Exminster Marshes and along the Exe Estuary Trail. Specific parking details for individual routes can often be found on their respective komoot tour pages.

The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly hikes in Exminster, with an average score of 4.58 stars. Reviewers often praise the flat, accessible terrain, the abundance of wildlife, and the scenic views across the Exe Estuary. The opportunity to combine walks with visits to places like the Turf Hotel for refreshments is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, the historic Turf Hotel, located at Turf Lock, is a popular spot for refreshments and meals, often accessible directly from several marsh and estuary walks. Many routes also pass through or near charming villages and towns along the Exe Estuary, offering additional options for family-friendly dining.

The duration varies depending on the route and your family's pace. For example, the easy Riverside walk along the River Exe – Topsham Lock Cottage loop from Exminster (7.6 km) typically takes around 2 hours. Longer, moderate routes like the Exeter Ship Canal & Turf Lock loop (8.3 km) might take closer to 2.5 hours. There are also shorter, informal strolls available, especially within the Exminster Marshes.