Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying a little longer, Exmouth is a brilliant base for exploring on two wheels. With flat, well-surfaced trails, beautiful estuary and coastal views, and plenty of places to pause for a picnic or a paddle, it’s easy to plan a ride that works for the whole family. We’ve rounded up a few easy-going routes that combine nature, fresh air, and memorable stops along the way.
Exe Estuary Trail (Exmouth ↔ Dawlish Warren / Starcross)
The Exe Estuary Trail is a fantastic, family-friendly route that follows the picturesque River Exe from Exmouth to Dawlish Warren, with easy access to Exeter too.
Why it’s great for families:
• Mostly flat, traffic-free and tarmacked – ideal for little legs and beginner cyclists
• Incredible views across the estuary, with RSPB nature reserves and plenty of birdlife to spot
• Well-equipped route with bike hire, cafés, and toilets in Dawlish Warren, Exmouth, Starcross, Lympstone, Topsham and Exeter Quay
• Make it more fun by riding one way and taking the ferry back – for example, cycle from Exmouth to Starcross and hop on the ferry for the return journey
Route tips:
• A gentle round trip from Exmouth to Lympstone is around 4 miles each way and suitable for pushchairs and wheelchair users
Exmouth → Budleigh Salterton Railway Path (5–7 miles)
Budleigh Salterton is a lovely seaside town with a two-mile pebble beach and iconic red cliffs, part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site—ideal for paddling, skimming stones, and relaxed family time.
Highlights:
• A smooth, traffic-free ride along a disused railway line—great for young riders
• Begins at Exmouth train station and winds through peaceful countryside and woodland to the coast
• Perfect spot for a beach break, crab sandwiches, and perhaps an ice cream
Ideal for: Kids aged 5–10 who are comfortable cycling around 10 miles with plenty of breaks.
Haldon Forest – Discovery Trail
Just 15 minutes south of Exeter, Haldon Forest Park is a brilliant destination for family cycling, offering a range of routes for all ages and abilities.
Why it works for families:
• A fully surfaced, gently graded trail that’s ideal for trailers and pushchairs
• Scenic picnic spots and viewpoints along the route
• Shared with walkers and horses, so it’s best enjoyed during quieter times
Best time to go: Mornings or later afternoons at weekends and during school holidays.
Don’t miss Exmouth’s seafront cycle path
As well as these scenic routes, Exmouth itself has a dedicated two-mile cycle path along the seafront – perfect for a short family ride with plenty of ice cream stops along the way!
Ready to explore?
Exmouth has so much to offer for families looking to get outdoors and enjoy time together on two wheels. Whether you’re planning a short ride with younger children or a longer day out with scenic stops, these routes offer a great mix of ease, adventure and fresh air.
For more ideas, make sure you take a look at our cycling page to help plan your perfect day out.
