Autumn Foodie Experiences by Train

As the sun sets on summer, we turn our foodie attention to an array of heart-warming autumnal delights. Serving up seasonal local produce and the best of the region, a warm West Country welcome is waiting.

From mouth-watering eateries showcasing fine dining to hearty meals and your favourite tipple served in a cozy, intimate pub – the best part is they’re all accessible by Great Western Railway.

Day 1

Fuelling you for the day, nothing beats a hearty breakfast so sit back and watch the world go by at Eat on the Green as you tuck into a freshly cooked all day breakfast or healthy smoothie, with views of Exeter Cathedral. Nestled away in Exeter’s independent West Quarter you’ll find freshly prepared vegan food and drinks, and home of the ‘vegan egg’ at Sacred Grounds.

Before catching the train from Exeter Central station to Exmouth there’s time to indulge in your sweet tooth and a treat for your travels. Pop into Big Bakes Bakery and be tempted by their scrumptious cupcakes and cookies or watch fudge made in front of your very eyes at Roly’s Fudge - sample their tantalising array of flavours, including vanilla clotted cream and Baileys.

It’s only a short half hour journey to Exmouth on the train but it serves up stunning views along the Exe Estuary and far-reaching scenery across South Devon. On arrival you’ll be greeted by the fresh sea air so what better place to enjoy your lunch than Rockfish Exmouth (there’s also one in Exeter). Offering the best seafood with the best view, here you can dine out on a list of fresh local fish from Brixham harbour. Exmouth is also the gateway to the Jurassic Coast so there’s plenty of walking options to stretch your lunch legs or build up an appetite.

Back on the train for an even shorter journey, as on the train back to Exeter it’s time to hop off at Topsham. If you’re after some fine dining and a catch of the day then The Galley is a charming seafood restaurant serving immaculately served dishes.

If you just fancy a drink then No. 3 Gin Bar is your place for cocktails and there’s an also an outdoor heated area for those chilly autumnal days.

As you arrive back at Exeter Central station it’s time for a night cap. There’s certainly no shortage of places for a drink and The Old Firehouse is widely acknowledged to be one of Exeter’s best ale and cider pubs. If you’re seeking a watering hole with a fascinating past then step foot inside The Turk’s Head, adjacent to the historic Guildhall. Housing its own microbrewery, follow in the footsteps of a literary great as this was where Charles Dickens had his own corner and would pen his timeless novels. 

Day 2

Entering through what was once the hospital chapel's entrance, The Cosy Club welcomes you into a large, theatrical space where the menu takes centre stage. Tuck into stacked pancakes, a signature ‘Cali brunch’ or go all out on a ‘Dirty Breakfast Butty’. If you’re not an early riser then Harry’s Restaurant is the perfect spot for a laid back brunch to start your day. Gratifying appetites for 30 years, the independent and family run business showcases locally sourced produce and award winning food.    

Just a short train ride from either Exeter Central or Exeter St. David’s is Powderham Castle, where amongst the stunning estate and ancient Deer Park, you’ll find their family-owned farm shop and bistro. Complete with in-house butchery and delicatessen, this is foodie heaven for picking and sampling locally-sourced and speciality food and drink produce. Grab yourself a picnic and find a nice spot to take in the magnificent grounds and gardens or head for a tour around Powderham Castle which is the family home to the Earl of Devon

Take the short train journey back to St. Thomas station, which is your stop for Exeter’s historic quayside. There’s plenty of eating and drinking options here and you’ll be spoilt for choice on what to treat your taste buds to!

If you’ve got a huge appetite then On The Waterfront is your first port of call. Housed on the ground floor of a 19^th century warehouse, it’s home to their famous dustbin lid pizza along with tapas, salads and burgers. Cosy, quirky, quaint – just a few ways to describe the wonderful hidden-gem that is gastro-pub the Hour Glass, run by Exeter Brewery. Presenting a choice of local produce, their seasonal menu can include monkfish and fallow deer while Devon’s original organic ale, Avocet, is the drink of choice.

If you fancy yourself as a bit of a gin connoisseur, then Quayside Distillery is the perfect destination. Incorporating a modern distillery that offers tours, here you can learn all about the process before creating and making your own concoction in the gin school. Once you’ve found your favourite then leave some to take some home as a souvenir!

Spend the evening in the breath-taking shadow of Exeter Cathedral at The Ivy Exeter. Sophisticated yet friendly all-day dining, an outdoor terrace makes for the perfect place to savour their seasonal menu or sip on a glamorous cocktail. From British classics to Asian-inspired cuisine, take a culinary tour around the world from the comfort of Exeter.