Best attractions and places to see around Rockbeare, a village in Devon, England, include a blend of historical landmarks and natural beauty. The area offers various countryside walks and access to wider attractions. Rockbeare is situated amidst rural landscapes, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and exploring local heritage. The region features historical sites like Rockbeare Manor and St Mary's Church, alongside natural features such as Rockbeare Hill and the River Otter.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
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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.
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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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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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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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This swing bridge is an interesting construction.
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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.
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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.
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Rockbeare is surrounded by opportunities for outdoor activities. You can explore the Exe Estuary Trail, a 36-km, mainly flat route perfect for cycling and walking with fantastic views. The footpath along the River Otter offers a peaceful walk where you might spot beavers. For more structured activities, there are numerous running, gravel biking, and mountain biking routes available. You can find detailed guides for these activities, such as Running Trails around Rockbeare, Gravel biking around Rockbeare, and MTB Trails around Rockbeare.
Yes, there are several family-friendly attractions. The Exe Estuary Trail and its boardwalk sections are ideal for families with bikes or pushchairs due to their flat, well-surfaced paths. The River Otter footpath is also suitable for a family stroll, offering a chance to see wildlife. Beyond the immediate village, Crealy Theme Park & Resort is a popular choice for families, and The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth provides an engaging experience for all ages.
Rockbeare itself is home to historical sites like Rockbeare Manor, a Grade I listed Regency country house, and St Mary's Church, dating back to the 13th century. Nearby, the Exeter Ship Canal has a rich history, being Britain's first canal built since Roman times. The Countess Wear Bridges also hold historical significance, having been used for D-Day training.
For natural beauty, Rockbeare is nestled in picturesque countryside with various quiet lanes and permissive paths for walking. Rockbeare Hill offers extensive views of the surrounding country. The River Otter provides a lovely area to explore, particularly its footpath, which is part of the Ottery Estuary Nature Reserve. The Exe Estuary Trail also boasts fantastic views along the River Exe.
Yes, the Exe Estuary Trail boardwalk is specifically noted as wheelchair accessible. This well-surfaced cycling and walking path offers spectacular views of the Estuary, making it a great option for those seeking accessible outdoor experiences.
The River Otter is famously home to a family of beavers, which were reintroduced to the area. Along the Exe Estuary Trail, you can spot diverse and plentiful wildlife, including various birds, fish, and seals, especially in the estuary's nature reserves.
While Rockbeare itself offers pleasant countryside walks, a short drive will take you to National Trust - Killerton, which features extensive gardens alongside its Georgian home. Additionally, Bicton Park Botanical Gardens are within easy reach and offer a beautiful day out with their vast botanical collections.
The premier cycling route is the Exe Estuary Trail, a 36-km, mainly flat, traffic-free path encircling the Exe Estuary. It's well-surfaced and suitable for all types of bikes. The path alongside the Exeter Ship Canal also offers scenic cycling opportunities. For more challenging rides, explore the Gravel biking around Rockbeare or MTB Trails around Rockbeare guides.
Beyond Rockbeare's local church and manor, the city of Exeter, a short drive away, offers significant cultural attractions. These include the stunning Exeter Cathedral, known for its architectural grandeur, and the award-winning Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery (RAMM), which showcases diverse displays.
Visitors particularly appreciate the scenic views and well-maintained paths of the Exe Estuary Trail, noting its suitability for families and various activities. The peaceful atmosphere and wildlife spotting opportunities along the River Otter are also highly valued. The historical significance of sites like the Exeter Ship Canal and the D-Day connection of the Countess Wear Bridges also draw interest.
For those seeking adventure, Go Ape Haldon, located near Exeter, offers high ropes courses and other outdoor challenges. This provides an exciting option for individuals and groups looking for a more active experience.
Canonteign Falls, a short drive from Rockbeare, features impressive waterfalls and natural playgrounds, making it an excellent destination for families looking for a blend of natural beauty and child-friendly activities.


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