Activities in Exeter
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Exminster Marshes Nature Reserve
The foot and cycle paths along Exeter Quay join the Exe Valley Way and head southeast to shadow both the canal and an ever-broadening estuary towards the sea. For the first 3 miles the route is a blend of heritage city, countryside and light industry. The excellent Double Locks pub is 1.5 miles down the cycle path from the quay; 2 miles further on is the start of the Exminster Marshes Nature Reserve, which is run by the Royal Society of the Protection of Birds (RSPB).
One more great pub, the Turf Locks Hotel, is another 2 miles inside the reserve. From there a rougher trail connects with a path to Powderham Castle. You can also navigate the 6-mile canal by kayak - an enjo…
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Redcoat Guided Tours
Redcoat Guided Tours are hugely varied. Themes range from ghosts and murder to Romans and religion - there's even a torch-lit prowl through Exeter's Catacombs. Tours leave from Cathedral Yard or the quay. There are two to five daily from April to October, and two to three daily from November to March. Pick up a programme from the tourist office.
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A
Exeter Cruises
Exeter Cruises shuttle down the Exeter Ship Canal from Exeter Quay to the Double Locks pub. A connecting boat, the White Heather, then ferries passengers the extra 4 miles to the Turf Locks Hotel. The trip takes 45 minutes (five daily June to August, Saturday & Sunday only April, May & September).
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B
Saddles & Paddles
Saddles & Paddles , on Exeter Quay, rents out bikes, kayaks and canoes.
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C
Saddles & Paddles
Saddles & Paddles , on Exeter Quay, rents out bikes, kayaks and canoes.
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D
Underground Passages
Prepare to crouch down, don a hard hat and possibly get spooked in what is the only system of its kind open to the public in England. These medieval vaulted passages were built to house pipes bringing fresh water to the city. Unlike modern utility companies, the authorities opted to have permanent access for repairs, rather than dig up the streets each time – genius. Guides lead you on a scramble through the network regaling you with tales of ghosts, escape routes and cholera. The last tour is an hour before closing; it can get busy; it's best to book.
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Redcoat Tours
For an informed and entertaining introduction to Exeter's history, it's hard to beat these 1½ hour tours. Themes range from murder and trade to Romans and religion – there are even torch-lit prowls through the catacombs and night-time ghost walks. Tours leave from Cathedral Yard or the Quay; pick up a program from the tourist office.
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