Attractions and Places To See around East Budleigh - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around East Budleigh include a blend of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural features within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in East Devon. The village is situated in the unspoiled Otter Valley, offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Visitors can explore significant historical sites and enjoy numerous walking and cycling routes that connect to the River Otter and nearby coastal areas. The region provides diverse landscapes, from river estuaries to coastal…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Exeter Ship Canal
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
It was first constructed in the 1560s and …
Tip by
Exe Estuary Trail
Highlight • Trail
Well surfaced and ideal for any type of bike as well as walkers and runners. …
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Exe Estuary Trail boardwalk
Highlight • Cycleway
Tip by
Otter Estuary Nature Reserve
Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument
Tip by
Orcombe Point and the Geoneedle
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around East Budleigh.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Look out for an entrance onto a footpath on your right, which follows beside the railway tracks on your left, and the exe estuary on your right. The path is too narrow for cycling but great for walking and running.
1
0
Beautiful walk and perfect opportunity to see wildlife
0
0
If you plan ahead, or if you are lucky, you can walk along the beach around Orcombe point when it is low tide. And from down here you are given a different perspective of the red cliffs of the jurrasic coast. The red sandstone cliif tower above you and boulders lay strewn across the beach from landslides in decades gone by. Continue walking the beach, being wedged between the sea and cliffs, but with plenty of space not to scare you, until you reach the slope up to Sandy bay park. Lots of refreshments await you, and the firework sound of gun fire, on a day when the troops test their rifles.
2
0
check the tide. If it's low you can walk back along the. beach. Nice cliffs with plenty of caves and boulders to explore and scramble over.
2
0
Devon, England that marks the start of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. The Geoneedle represents the rock types found along the Jurassic Coast. It was commissioned from artist Michael Fairfax and unveiled by the Prince of Wales in 2002.
2
0
Orcombe Point is a coastal feature near Exmouth, The two beaches are part of a long strip of sand and are connected to each other below Orcombe Point at low tide. Sited high upon the hill, Orcombe Point is marked by the "Geoneedle", which was unveiled by Prince Charles, in 2002. The Geoneedle is constructed from a variety of different stones, representing both the major building stones to be found on the Jurassic Coast and the sequence of rocks that form this part of the coastline.
2
0
With over 120 species of bird recorded on the site, the River Otter Estuary Nature Reserve is the perfect place for bird watching. The estuary covers around 33 hectares and is a designated site of Special Scientific Interest. The Otter Estuary has an intertidal habitat of mudflats and saltmarshes, making it an ideal home for a number of fish, birds and other marine life. If you have a keen eye, you can often spot things such as mud shrimps and a host of wading birds like the Ringed Plover, Curlew, Black tailed Godwit, Dunlin, Common Sandpiper, Redshank and Brent Goose. Occasionally, you’ll find rarer birds including avocet and glossy ibis. Whatever time of year you visit, you’ll spot something new depending on the birds migratory habits, so every trip is a unique experience. As well as birds, the estuary is a great place for spotting otters and is home to England’s first population of native wild beavers. Around ten years ago, beavers reappeared on the River Otter and now there is a happy and healthy colony of beavers living at the estuary. While visiting, be sure to follow these guidelines: Be considerate of other users, make way when paths are narrow and be quiet and respectful when exploring Take all your litter with you Do not approach any wildlife Keep dogs under control, especially around other people and wildlife Always bag and bin dog waste Cycling is not permitted Watersports are only for the beach, not the estuary to protect wildlife, so please launch any boards or paddles from the beach. Only use the designated areas for BBQs and picnics
2
0
Nice flat cycle path. But gets VERY busy with 2 wheeled, 2 legged and 4 legged visitors in the summer months. Watch how you go.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in East Budleigh?
East Budleigh is rich in history. You can visit the birthplace of Sir Walter Raleigh at Hayes Barton (viewable from the road) and see his statue in the village. Don't miss the 14th-century All Saints Church, where Raleigh's parents are buried, featuring attractive pew ends. The village also boasts historic cob and thatched houses, the Salem Chapel (1719), and the historic Village Pound.
Where can I experience nature and wildlife around East Budleigh?
The area is nestled in the unspoiled Otter Valley, offering beautiful natural features. The Otter Estuary Nature Reserve is an excellent spot for birdwatching, especially for wintering wildfowl and waders. You can also explore the East Budleigh Wild Wood, which provides information on local wildlife and tree species, or walk along the River Otter where beavers have been reintroduced.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in the area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Exe Estuary Trail and the Exe Estuary Trail boardwalk offer traffic-free paths perfect for cycling and walking with children. The Otter Estuary Nature Reserve is also family-friendly, providing opportunities for wildlife spotting. Nearby Bicton Park Botanical Gardens offers beautifully manicured spaces for a family day out.
What walking and cycling routes are available near East Budleigh?
The region is ideal for walking and cycling. The Exe Estuary Trail is a popular choice, offering a well-surfaced, traffic-free path. You can also explore numerous footpaths along the River Otter, connecting to Bicton Obelisk and nearby villages. For more specific routes, check out the easy hikes around East Budleigh or the MTB trails around East Budleigh.
Can I find easy walking trails suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The area offers several easy walking options. The Exe Estuary Trail is predominantly flat and well-surfaced, making it suitable for all abilities. There are also easy hikes like the Otter Valley Walk and routes around the River Otter, which are perfect for beginners. You can find more details on easy hikes around East Budleigh.
Are there any accessible attractions for wheelchair users?
Yes, the Exe Estuary Trail boardwalk is noted as wheelchair accessible, providing a smooth path with fantastic views along the River Exe. This part of the Exe Estuary Trail is predominantly off-road and well-surfaced.
What is the best time to visit East Budleigh for outdoor activities?
The area is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking and cycling along the River Otter and coastal paths. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the landscapes. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, especially for trails on the East Devon Pebblebed Heaths.
Where can I spot wildlife in East Budleigh?
The Otter Estuary Nature Reserve is a prime location for birdwatching, with significant populations of wintering wildfowl and waders. Along the River Otter, you might also spot reintroduced beavers. The East Budleigh Wild Wood provides information on local wildlife and tree species.
Are there any pubs or cafes in East Budleigh?
East Budleigh, being a charming village, has local establishments where you can refresh. While specific names are not provided, you can typically find traditional pubs and cafes in the village center, perfect for a break after exploring the local attractions or trails.
What are the East Devon Pebblebed Heaths and how can I visit them?
The East Devon Pebblebed Heaths are a series of commons near East Budleigh, managed for their diverse ecosystems and bird species. They offer unique landscapes for walking and exploring. You can find various routes that traverse these heaths, including some MTB trails and gravel biking routes that pass through or near them.
What is the significance of Orcombe Point?
Orcombe Point marks the most westerly point of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. It's known for its imposing red-colored steep cliffs and the "Geoneedle," a monument constructed from various stones representing the geological history of the Jurassic Coast. It offers a wonderful feeling of being surrounded by rocks that are millions of years old.
Can I cycle along the Exeter Ship Canal?
Yes, the Exeter Ship Canal offers a scenic path alongside it, which is part of the Exe Estuary Trail. It's a great place for cycling, walking, and enjoying views of the river and countryside. The canal itself has historical significance as the first canal built in Britain since Roman times.
Most popular routes around East Budleigh
Most popular attractions around East Budleigh
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
