Welcome to Exmouth, Devon

Said to be the oldest seaside resort in Devon, Exmouth is renowned for its red cliffs and large golden sandy beaches, sand dunes and rock pools extending to approximately 2 miles.  Having passed through Exeter, the River Exe enters the sea here, Exmouth being on the eastern bank.  This is also the western most part of Lyme Bay.

Exmouth, in East Devon, boasts an old fashioned promenade, with favourites such as crazy golf.  The town itself is mainly from the Georgian architectural era.

History of Exmouth, Devon

Exmouth began as a small fishing village and grew into an important port in the 12th Century.

A National Trust property can be found in Exmouth called 'A La Ronde', 45 foot high, 16 sided, Byzantine style thatched house with 20 rooms set out around a central octagonal hall.  The gallery and staircase approaching it are decorated with thousands of sea shells.  It was built in 1798 by cousins Jane and Mary Parminter following their grand tour of Europe.  Lady Nelson also lived in Exmouth at the Beacon.  Sir Francis Drake (1540-1596) and Sir Walter Raleigh (1552-1618) often set sail from Exmouth harbour during the late 16th and early 17th Centuries.

A branch line of London & South Western Railways was finally opened in 1861 after several setbacks, to bring holidaymakers to Exmouth from the main London to Exeter rail link.  It is still active today.

The South West Coast Path

The South West Coast Path enters Exmouth, East Devon, from the east after having passed Sandy Beach and Orcombe Rocks.  The path goes along the promenade, then out to the west, following the nature reserves on the eastern bank of the River Exe.

Good Beach Guide

Exmouth / Sandy Bay, Devon...The sea water quality is rated as having passed the EC Mandatory Standard and receives a Recommendation (the highest award) from The Marine Conservation Society.

Royal National Lifeboat Institute

The Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI) operate a lifeboat service from the harbour at Exmouth.