Festive escapism around Exeter

The festive season is a wonderful time for exploring and discovering new places, or even re-discovering old favourites. Whether it’s taking in the crisp winter air and burning off any festive excess exploring Exeter’s Green Circle or taking in nature’s wintry delights for a woodland stroll through magical Haldon Forest, the focus is on getting out and about to breath some fresh air and life into your body.

Red Coat Guides

Exeter is blessed with an abundance of outdoor areas just waiting to be explored, much of which can be accessed by foot. A popular way to find your way around the city, while learning about Exeter’s rich history, is on a free Red Coat Guided Tour. There’s a range of tours available and what the expert guides don’t know probably isn’t worth knowing! Tours run daily across the winter months, except Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Exeter Green Circle

Take a breather from the Christmas bustle and rediscover the great outdoors with Exeter’s beautiful Green Circle this Twixmas. This 12-mile walking route loops around the city, weaving together peaceful parks, leafy valley paths, riverside stretches and wildlife-rich green spaces. It’s the perfect way to boost wellbeing, blow away the cobwebs and enjoy quality time in nature. Whether you explore a short section or complete the full circuit, the Green Circle offers a refreshing escape, helping you slow down, reset and appreciate Exeter from a whole new perspective. Step outside, stretch your legs, and let the calm of winter guide you.

Riverside walks

You can’t beat a relaxing stroll along the River Exe and there’s something about the tranquillity of the water that allows you to lose yourself. On foot or two wheels, you’ve got the freedom to go as far or as little as you like and it’s amazing what even just a short outdoor journey can do for the mind and your well-being. Dial into nature with a spot of bird watching along the river bank and bring along the Christmas leftovers for a ready-made picnic.

Saddles & Paddles

Whether you’re gliding along the peaceful Exeter Canal by kayak and canoe or exploring scenic riverside trails on two wheels, there's always a sense of calm down by the river. Swap the crowds for tranquil water, crisp winter air and uninterrupted views of Exeter’s beautiful waterways with Saddles & Paddles. Ideal for families, friends or solo adventurers, a paddling or cycling trip offers fresh-air wellbeing, gentle exercise and a refreshing dose of escapism. Discover a slower pace and recharge in nature with an unforgettable outdoor experience right in the heart of the city.

Haldon Forest Park

Offering miles of trails and endless activities, Haldon Forest Park provides the perfect setting to rediscover your connection with nature and the great outdoors. A range of exhilarating mountain bike trails will blast away the cobwebs and is perfect for some adrenalin-filled family fun or if you seek a little more isolation then head deeper into the forest where you’ll be treated to incredible views.

If one of your New Year resolutions is to become more active then why not get a head start with Exeter Riverside and Haldon Forest Parkrun. A free, fun and friendly 5k community event where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer or even just spectate and cheer everyone along. It’s a guaranteed feel good factor however you get involved.

Stroll over to our walking guide for some Twixmas inspiration around Exeter.