Summer Foodie Experiences by Train

Exeter's location on the River Exe, surrounded by beautiful countryside, means it is the perfect place to explore this summer by train. This region has some of the most scenic rail journeys in the country, so make the journey part of the adventure and take a summer food safari from Exeter with GWR!

Exeter has numerous train stations across the city, including the recently opened Marsh Barton station, so wherever you're staying, it is easy to travel by train.

Day 1

Start by hopping on the Exeter to Exmouth line, where you can enjoy far-reaching views across the River Exe estuary from the train. Stop off at the historic estuary port of Topsham, just 4 miles from Exeter, and take a walk around the town to explore the eclectic cluster of independent shops and cafes here. 

Get back on the train at Topsham for onward travel to Exmouth. With GWR's Devon Day Ranger ticket, you can get unlimited travel across Devon for one day, at just £15 for adults and £7.50 for children.

On arrival in Exmouth, head to the Marina (approximately 10 minutes' walk), where you can catch a water taxi to the River Exe Cafe for a truly unique dining experience! This seasonal restaurant is located on a a custom-built barge that floats well offshore in the River Exe Estuary. Enjoy a lunch of locally sourced food and drink surrounded by amazing views.

Catch the train back to Exeter and spend some time exploring this historic city. Visit the sheltered roof terrace at the Turk's Head for a cider slushy, the ultimate summer drink! The pub has its own micro-brewery, and you can take a tour to find out how their experimenting has created some of the brews on tap. If you book a room at the Turk's you'll also get a £50 voucher to spend on food and drink in the pub!

Day 2

Have a lie-in then go for an indulgent brunch at The Ivy Exeter. Choose a table outside for spectacular views of Exeter Cathedral. After brunch, spend some more time exploring the city. Check out our guide to spending 24 hours in Exeter to make sure you don't miss any of the top attractions.

Catch the train from Exeter Central Station for a short journey to Exeter St Thomas. From here it is a short walk to Exeter Quayside, where there are numerous waterside cafes and restaurants to choose from for lunch, such as On the Waterfront, and Rockfish.

After lunch, take a stroll around the historic buildings lining the river, then visit the Quayside Distillery, situated beside the canal. Here you can have a go at creating your own gin concoction using innovative distillation methods, or join a tour and tasting experience with the master distiller, to learn more about their unique method of distillation, and taste some of the vacuum distilled spirits. 

If you still have room for dinner, make the most of the summer at one of Exeter's many restaurants where you can dine al fresco!