Attractions and Places To See around Ottery St Mary - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Ottery St Mary include a blend of historical landmarks, natural landscapes, and cultural experiences. This charming East Devon town is characterized by its medieval architecture and tranquil riverside walks along the River Otter. The surrounding area features rolling hills, woodlands, and coastal scenery, offering diverse outdoor activities. Visitors can explore sites that reflect the town's history and natural beauty.
Best attractions and places to see around Ottery St Mary
- The most popular attractions is Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, a natural monument that is a prime location for birdwatching. The marshes around the River Otter support significant populations of wintering wildfowl and waders.
- Another must-see spot is River Otter, a natural feature offering scenic walks along its banks. This river is home to a re-introduced colony of beavers and provides a peaceful area for exploration.
- Visitors also love Ladram Bay Sea Stacks, a natural monument featuring awe-inspiring red sandstone stacks. These geological formations provide dramatic coastal scenery.
- Ottery St Mary is known for its historical sites, natural features, and cultural points of interest. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to wildlife parks.
- The attractions around Ottery St Mary are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 200 upvotes and 10 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Exe Estuary Trail
Highlight • Trail
Well surfaced and ideal for any type of bike as well as walkers and runners. Be mindful of other users, especially when it's busier at the weekends and holidays.
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Otter Estuary Nature Reserve
Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument
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River Otter
Highlight • Viewpoint
Otterton Mill is now a cafe but was once one of the biggest mills on the river, of which there were over 50.
Although it is called the River Otter, the most famous wildlife inhabitants are a family of around 15 beavers. Extinct in England in the 16th century, it is not known how they were released but were granted permission to remain after a five year trial.
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Ladram Bay Sea Stacks
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Jacob's Ladder Beach
Highlight • Natural
Whilst the beach can be accessed via the steps it is also possible to walk around from the town's main beach via a level path.
Backed by steep cliffs, there is some shelter from the breeze, particularly at the western end of the beach where you will also find plenty of rock pools at low tide. This is a great spot for families but don't forget to leave the pebbles on the beach they are protected by law!
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Other adventures around Ottery St Mary
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.
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Beautiful walk and perfect opportunity to see wildlife
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great flat path lots of birds to see, sheep cows and fish
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The paths where really good not to muddy, a few puddles which you can walk around however on the road was a big stream and got a little dirty lucky my walking boots are waterproof no to many hills, and a very nice farm shop with a catering van, the bakery sells the best pasties. You won't be disappointed
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From the car park on Budleigh Salterton, walk beside the river Otter and experience the wonder of the Wetlands, and marvel at the visiting and nesting birds😀
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Ladram Bay is a secluded bay with a pebble beach. Among the most impressive sights along the Jurassic Coast are the sea stacks at Ladram Bay. The sandstones contain many vertical fractures and joints that were formed deep in the Earth's crust during past mountain building periods. The sea picked out these planes of weakness to form caves and natural arches that have since collapsed to produce sea stacks. The “Otter Sandstone” that forms the cliffs and sea stacks were deposited in a hot dry climates in the Triassic Period, about 220 million years ago. The stacks are composed of the same rock, which is relatively soft, but they have a harder band of sandstone at their base which prevents their rapid erosion by the sea. The striking red colour of the rock is caused by iron oxide, which indicate that the layers were formed in a desert. The presence of ripple marks and channels in the sandstones, together with the remains of the long-extinct plants, insects, fish, amphibians and reptiles, show that the desert was crossed by fertile river valleys.
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Jacob's Ladder is the name of the area at the western end of the town beach, the name comes from the wooden steps that lead up to Connaught Gardens, there have been steps at this part of the beach for as far back as anyone can remember.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Ottery St Mary?
The area around Ottery St Mary is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, a prime spot for birdwatching, or enjoy scenic walks along the River Otter, known for its re-introduced beaver colony. For dramatic coastal scenery, the awe-inspiring red sandstone Ladram Bay Sea Stacks are a must-see. The wider East Devon National Landscape also offers rolling hills, woodlands, and coastline for exploration.
Are there good walking or hiking trails near Ottery St Mary attractions?
Yes, there are many opportunities for walking and hiking. You can find easy hikes like the 'White Cross Viewpoint loop from Bald Hill' or 'Harpford Woods – Redbridge Over the River Otter loop from Harpford'. For more moderate options, consider the 'Head Weir – River Otter at Ottery St Mary loop from Ottery St. Mary'. You can explore various routes and trails in the area by visiting the easy hikes guide or the running trails guide for Ottery St Mary.
What historical sites can I visit in Ottery St Mary?
Ottery St Mary boasts a rich history. You can explore the stunning Gothic architecture of St Mary's Church, often called a miniature Exeter Cathedral, which houses one of the country's oldest mechanical clocks. The Ottery St Mary Heritage Museum, located in the Old Town Hall, offers insights into the town's 2000-year history, including its literary connections to Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Just outside town, the historic Cadhay manor house features beautiful gardens open to the public.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Ottery St Mary?
Absolutely. River Otter walks are suitable for families, and the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve is great for wildlife spotting. Wildwood Devon, located within Escot Park, is a fantastic family day out, focusing on native British species and featuring play areas and a reconstructed Saxon Village. The Donkey Sanctuary, a short drive away near Sidmouth, also offers a tranquil environment to interact with hundreds of donkeys and explore gardens, all free to visit.
Where can I go birdwatching or wildlife spotting?
The Otter Estuary Nature Reserve is a prime location for birdwatching, especially for wintering wildfowl and waders like redshank and curlew. The marshes around the River Otter are part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Additionally, the River Otter itself is home to a re-introduced colony of beavers, making it a unique spot for wildlife observation.
What unique local traditions or events take place in Ottery St Mary?
Ottery St Mary is famous for its distinctive traditions. The internationally renowned Tar Barrels event takes place annually on Bonfire Night, where locals carry flaming tar barrels through the streets. In June, the charming Pixie Day sees children dressed as pixies re-enacting an old legend. The town also hosts the Coleridge Memorial Festival, celebrating its connection to the poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge.
Can I find places to cycle near Ottery St Mary?
Yes, the area offers cycling opportunities. The Exe Estuary Trail provides a lovely traffic-free path between Topsham and Exton, suitable for various bike types. For mountain biking enthusiasts, there are trails like the 'Mutters Moor – The Byes Riverside Walk loop from Newton Poppleford and Harpford'. More cycling routes can be found in the MTB Trails around Ottery St Mary guide.
What is Otterton Mill and what can I do there?
Otterton Mill is a historic working water mill set beside the River Otter. It has been operating since Norman times and was restored in 1977. Visitors can see the mill workings, which still mill flour a couple of times a month. It also features a popular cafe and shop, making it a pleasant stop for refreshments and local products.
Is there a museum in Ottery St Mary?
Yes, the Ottery St Mary Heritage Museum is located in the Old Town Hall. It offers a fascinating look into the town's 2000-year history, covering its medieval origins, connections to literary figures like Samuel Taylor Coleridge, and the famous Tar Barrels tradition.
What is the best time of year to visit Ottery St Mary?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. Summer months are ideal for exploring the gardens at Cadhay. If you wish to experience the unique Tar Barrels tradition, plan your visit around Bonfire Night in November. June is when the charming Pixie Day tradition takes place. For general outdoor activities and pleasant weather, late spring to early autumn is often recommended.
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots worth visiting?
Beyond the main attractions, you might enjoy the tranquil Ottery St Mary Woodland Walk for immersion in nature. The Tumbling Weir, a medieval weir on the River Otter, offers a picturesque and historical point of interest within the town. The Otari Bell, near Sainsbury, also symbolizes a unique connection between Ottery St Mary and Japan, offering a small, intriguing point of interest.
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