Best attractions and places to see around Thorverton include a mix of historical sites, scenic trails, and family friendly activities. Located in Devon, near Exeter, the area is characterized by its river valleys and former railway lines, now converted into paths. Visitors can explore various routes suitable for easy walks near Thorverton or longer cycling adventures. The landscape offers opportunities to connect with nature and local history.
Last updated: July 29, 2026
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There's a few disabled parking spaces right on the Quay and the walks are all wheelchair user friendly, there's bus routes and train station all within a mile of the quay. If like me on your walk you like to re-stall your batteries and have a hot or cold drink there's lots of great pubs restaurants and little cafes on the Quay and they all welcome dogs, if you check out what's on in Exeter you might be lucky to see one of the many events they hold like morse dancing, the boat racing, mental health walk, the food festivals and many more, enjoy the ruins and history walks also.
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Car park and numerous food outlets alongside the river perfect to spend a time to relax
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lovely flat and people jogging cycling walking great place to meet friends have a picnic etc
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Exeter Quay, also known as Exeter Quayside, is a district of Exeter on the River Exe and the Exeter Ship Canal. It was used as a port since prehistoric times, when a sandstone outcrop was used to unload the ships of overseas traders.[1] However, in 1381, the Countess Weir closed the river to shipping. In 1566, a canal was completed to allow ships access. Over time, the number of ships using the quay increased, and so the quay was extended in the late 17th century. Further extension took place in 1830 when a new canal basin was dug. However, in 1840, the railway reached Exeter, and shipping began to decline. The quay is no longer used for shipping, but mainly for recreational purposes.
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Lovely to see so many Cormorants all in a row along the weir, along with a couple of Herons. Also a lovely place to stop for a rest and a drink over looking the weir is the “The Port Royal”. Lovely food too!
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Lovely place to walk can get very flooded around here but the weir is a lovely place to sit and relax
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lots to do along the Quay, saw ducks, swans great places to eat and drink, there are many different routes you can stay on a path or walk through mud path. wheelchair friendly the Quay got lots of history and gift shops
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Brilliant stretch of canal path that leads out to Dawlish, the surface is great in most areas and any bike should be able to get around this path. However if you have a accessibility trike there are some narrow sections and bridge that might make this path very difficult to use.
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Yes, Thorverton offers several family-friendly options. Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn is an 18th-century working water mill with shops and eateries in a riverside setting, perfect for a family outing. Ducke's Marsh is another great spot for families, offering walks and wildlife observation, with facilities nearby.
The area around Thorverton is rich in history. You can explore Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn, an 18th-century working water mill that also houses shops and dining. Additionally, the Exe Valley Railway Path follows a former railway line that was operational from the late 1880s to the 1960s, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
Yes, there are several easy walks suitable for beginners. The Exeter Ship Canal shared path is a smooth, flat trail perfect for a relaxed stroll. For more options, you can find easy hikes like the 'Exe Valley Way: Bickleigh Loop' or the 'River Exe at Brampford Speke – Exe Valley Railway Path loop' in the Easy hikes around Thorverton guide.
Beyond visiting attractions, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. Cycling is popular on the Exeter Ship Canal shared path and the Killerton Park Cycle Track. For walking, Ducke's Marsh offers pleasant riverside routes. You can find more detailed routes for road cycling, running, and hiking in the Road Cycling Routes around Thorverton, Running Trails around Thorverton, and Easy hikes around Thorverton guides.
Yes, the Exe Valley Railway Path is noted as a dog-friendly trail, offering a good walk. Many other footpaths and public rights of way in the area are also suitable for walking with dogs, though it's always advisable to keep them on a lead, especially near livestock.
Thorverton is characterized by its river valleys. Ducke's Marsh is a beautiful river area with a weir, offering opportunities to observe wildlife like cormorants and herons. The Exeter Ship Canal shared path also runs alongside the river, providing scenic views of the waterways.
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities around Thorverton, with longer daylight hours. However, some trails like the Killerton Park Cycle Track can get muddy in winter, so consider drier periods for certain routes.
The Exeter Ship Canal shared path is a smooth and flat tarmac route, making it generally accessible for pedestrians and cyclists. However, it's noted that some narrow sections and bridges might make it difficult for accessibility trikes. It's always recommended to check specific route details for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
For refreshments, Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn offers shops, eateries, and is a lovely place for lunch or a Devon cream tea. Near Ducke's Marsh, 'The Port Royal' is mentioned as a good spot to stop for a rest and a drink overlooking the weir, also serving food.
For walks and outdoor activities, it's advisable to bring appropriate footwear, especially if you plan to explore trails that might be muddy in wetter seasons, like the Killerton Park Cycle Track. Water, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing are also recommended, as conditions can change. If cycling, ensure your bike is suitable for the terrain, as some tracks are not ideal for road bikes.
While the main attractions are popular, exploring the various sections of the Exe Valley Railway Path, which follows a dismantled railway line, can offer quieter stretches. Additionally, the diverse network of local footpaths and bridleways often leads to peaceful spots away from the main routes, allowing for a more serene experience of the Devon countryside.


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