NATURE IN EXETER
Exeter Walking Festival - 12-20 Sept 2026
Discover Exeter One Step at a Time
Step into a week of adventure, discovery and connection at the very first Exeter Walking Festival.
Explore the city through guided heritage walks, riverside strolls, wildlife adventures, photography walks, wellbeing walks and walking sports.
Discover Exeter's beautiful green spaces, waterways and rich history while meeting new people, improving your wellbeing and experiencing the city from a fresh perspective.
Whether you join us for one walk or the whole week, there's something for everyone. We can't wait to welcome you!
Booking form for many of the Walking Festival events is here.
Heritage Open Days - 11-20 September 2026
Explore Exeter's Hidden History
Step behind the scenes and uncover the stories that have shaped England's rich heritage during Heritage Open Days (HODs) – the country's largest festival of history and culture. Coordinated by the National Trust and supported by players of the People’s Postcode Lottery, this annual celebration offers free access to historic buildings, fascinating guided tours, exhibitions, talks, walks and unique experiences across England.
Heritage Open Days 2026 takes place from 11–20 September, with a fantastic programme of events in and around Exeter. Whether you're interested in historic landmarks, local stories or hidden gems, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Can't make it to one of the scheduled events? You can still discover Exeter's past at your own pace with the AudaTours Exeter Audio Tour: Everyday Histories. This self-guided walk brings the city's history to life, revealing the stories of cathedral craftspeople, ship workers, watermen and traders who helped shape Exeter through the centuries.
For full details of all Heritage Open Days events and participating venues, check out Visit Exeter.
Parkrun (Walk) - Saturday 12 September & Every Saturday @ 9am
Discover parkrun, or parkwalk – the friendly way to get moving!
Looking for a fun, free, and welcoming way to be more active? parkwalk is simply walking at parkrun – and everyone is invited!
Join a friendly community every week and enjoy a scenic 5k route alongside runners, joggers, fellow walkers, and enthusiastic volunteers. Whether you're taking your first steps towards a healthier lifestyle, catching up with friends, or simply enjoying the fresh air, you can walk entirely at your own pace.
There's no pressure to run, no time limit, and every event has a dedicated Tail Walker, so you'll never be the last person on the course.
Why not give it a go? Lace up your walking shoes, meet new people, and start walking your way to a healthier, happier you.
Check out Exeter's Riverside parkrun here.
Junior Parkrun - Sunday 13 September & Every Sunday @ 9am
There are junior parkruns as well!
A free, fun, and friendly weekly 2k event for juniors (4 to 14 year olds) that takes place at 9am every Sunday. Find out more here.
FLOW Project Heritage Guided Walks - Sunday 13 September @ 9.30am and 12pm
Step back in time and discover the fascinating story of Exeter's riverside landscape on this special guided walk.
Join the FLOW Project for a guided walk exploring Exeter’s river heritage, including historic waterways, community orchards and flood defences. Along the way, discover the history, nature and engineering that have shaped this unique part of the city.
Part 1 – Custom House to Exwick Mill Field Orchard
Time: 9:30am–11:30am
Date: Sunday 13 September |
Meeting Point: Custom House, Exeter Quay
Walk along the river to Exwick Mill Field Orchard (approx 1 hour) before returning to Piazza Terracina.
Coffee break: 11:30am–11:50am
Part 2 – Piazza Terracina to Double Locks
Time: 12pm–2pm
Date: Sunday 13 September |
Meeting Point: Piazza Terracina, Exeter Quay
Continue along the river to Double Locks (approx 1 hour) before returning to the Custom House.
Along the route, we’ll explore:
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The FLOW Project
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Exwick Mill Field Orchard
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The River Exe and its history
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Flood defences and water management
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Exeter Ship Canal
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Historic bridges and local heritage
Choose What Suits You
Join the full walk (9:30am–2pm), Part 1 only, or Part 2 from 12pm.
You can also finish at Double Locks and make your own way back.
Perfect for anyone interested in local history, nature, engineering or simply a scenic riverside walk.
Book here.
Westbank Health Walks - Monday 14 September & Throughout The Week
Walk, Explore, Connect.
Looking for a friendly way to get active and discover more of Exeter? Westbank Health Walks runs the city's largest programme of guided health walks, offering something for everyone—from gentle strolls to more energetic walks.
With regular walks taking place across Exeter throughout the week, it's easy to find one that suits your fitness level, location and schedule. Whether you're walking for your health, to enjoy the outdoors or to meet new people, you'll receive a warm welcome. Best of all, all walks are completely free.
If you join a walk after seeing it in the Walking Festival programme, please let the walk leader know. This helps Westbank understand how new participants are discovering their fantastic walks.
For further information, please contact the Westbank Health Walks Team on 01392 824752 or email healthwalks@westbank.org.uk or check out the website here.
Book for the Westbank Health Walks during the Exeter Walking Festival here.
History & Heritage Walks - Monday 14 & Friday 18 September
Walk 1 - A Maritime Meander - Quay History Walk - Monday 14 September @ 10:30am
Join the Friends of Exeter Ship Canal & Heritage Harbour for a relaxed walk through one of Exeter’s most picturesque waterside areas.
Our Maritime Meander begins at Piazza Terracina beside the Canal Basin and follows the East Quay before crossing the River Exe via Trews Weir Suspension Bridge, finishing at the Transit Shed on the Quay.
As we make our way along the route, we will pause at points of interest to share fascinating stories from Exeter’s past—exploring former homes and businesses and the people who once lived and worked there. You will also hear about Exeter’s Heritage Harbour status and the traditional vessels that have been drawn to the city as a result.
Time: 10:30am
Date: Monday 14 September
Meeting Point: Piazza Terracina
The walk will not only look back at Exeter’s maritime history but also consider its future. We will discuss the potential for the Canal to become once again an important part of Exeter’s economy, providing a sustainable route into the heart of the city for both people and freight.
The walk follows level, paved paths and covers a distance of approximately 2 miles.
This event is organised jointly by Wellbeing Exeter and Westbank Community & Health Care.
Book here.
Walk 2 - Mills & Orchards - Friday 18 September @ 10:30am
Exwick Local History group will be leading a walk exploring Exwick’s agricultural and industrial heritage.
We will walk through Exwick Mill Field to discuss the agricultural history of the area and the importance of Mallet’s flour mill. We will look at part of the Flow Orchard of newly planted fruit and nut trees.
The walk will go into the heart of the village, past old farms to the pub, post office, church and school. We will talk about significant residents who had an impact on village life.
Going up Exwick Hill we will learn about activities in the Square connected to the Woollen Mill and factory.
We finish by the parish hall for hot drinks and cake after.
Come and join us on this 1-mile walk, which includes some uphill and non-paved sections, to find out how the power of the river and the fertile land shaped Exwick in the past.
Time: 10:30am
Date: Friday 18 September
Meeting Point: Exwick Parish Hall, 66 Station Road, Exeter EX4 2AB
This event is organised jointly by Wellbeing Exeter, Zero Mile Gardens and Westbank Community & Health Care.
Book here.
OrganicARTS, West Town Farm, Ide - 14-20 September
Discover the Magic of West Town Farm
Escape into the beautiful Devon countryside and experience the magic of West Town Farm in Ide, just outside Exeter. Home to organicARTS, this stunning working farm is a peaceful haven where nature, creativity and community come together.
Wander along enchanting pathways that meander through ancient orchards, quiet country lanes, the mystical Tree Henge, and many other hidden corners waiting to be discovered. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll, inspiring stories or a creative adventure, West Town Farm offers the perfect opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature and experience the beauty of this truly special place.
Explore the Farm at Your Own Pace - Monday 14 September to Sunday 20 September
The West Town Farm permissive footpaths will be open throughout the week, inviting you to explore the landscape in your own time. To make sure you uncover every hidden trail and special place, pick up a Farm Walk Guide from the Farm Shop in the yard. Open daily from 9am–6pm, the shop also offers a wonderful selection of locally produced organic food and produce. Find out more about West Town Farm here.
Walking The Story - Tuesday 15 September
Step into the stories woven through the landscape on a guided walk with Kevin, the organicARTS storyteller. Journey across the beautiful farm while discovering tales inspired by local history, folklore and the land itself. These public story walks are suitable for all ages, with simple refreshments available. Walk times:
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2:00pm – 3:30pm – Afternoon Ramble
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4:00pm – 5:30pm – Teatime Tales
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7:00pm – 8:30pm – Evening Explore
To find out more about these sessions and other opportunities to explore the farm, email explore@organicarts.org.uk.
Book your place via the organicARTS website here.
Health & Wellbeing Walks - Wednesday 16 September & Friday 18 September
Join the organicARTS Community Garden Group as they enjoy gentle walks around West Town Farm as part of their ongoing health and wellbeing programme. If you'd like to learn more about the Community Garden Group, email info@organicarts.org.uk.
A Creative Walk To The Farm - Thursday 17 September
Take a creative journey with the organicARTS Makers Group as they walk from St Thomas to West Town Farm, finding inspiration in the landscape along the way. To find out more about the walk or the weekly Makers Group, email makers@organicarts.org.uk. Book your place via the organicARTS website here.
Bat Walk - Monday 14 September @ 7.30pm
Na na, na na, na na, na na... BAT WALK!
As the evenings grow darker and autumn begins to settle in, it's the perfect time to discover the secret world that comes alive after sunset.
Join a local bat expert for a fascinating guided walk and uncover the incredible lives of these amazing nocturnal creatures. Learn how they hunt, navigate using echolocation, and why they're such an important part of our wildlife.
Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or simply curious about the creatures of the night, this is a fantastic opportunity to experience nature from a whole new perspective. Don't miss this bat-tastic evening!
Book here.
Exeter Photo Walk Challenge - Tuesday 15 September @ 5:30pm
Grab your camera and join us for an inspiring evening of creativity as we explore Exeter through photography!
Hosted by Exeter City Community Trust × Photo Club Devon, this isn't your average photo walk.
Instead of simply strolling through the city, we'll stop at a series of exciting locations, giving you around 20 minutes at each stop to capture the area through a fun creative photography challenge.
Whether you're shooting with a professional camera, mirrorless, DSLR or simply your phone, everyone is welcome. No experience is needed—just bring your curiosity and creativity.
Along the way, you'll pick up photography tips, share ideas with fellow participants, meet like-minded creatives and discover hidden details in parts of Exeter you may have passed countless times without noticing.
To round off the evening, we'll head to a nearby café or pub for anyone who'd like to relax, chat and share their favourite shots over a drink.
Time: 5:30pm-7pm
Date: Tuesday 15 September
Meeting Point: TO BE CONFIRMED
Cost: FREE (though a donation to Exeter City Community Trust is welcome but entirely optional)
BOOKING DETAILS COMING SOON - WATCH THIS SPACE!
Exeter Sound Walk - Tuesday 15 September @ 6pm
Bathe in the sounds of the city and join us for a unique listening experience.
This gentle Exeter Sound Walk will explore the beautiful surroundings of Northernhay Gardens and Rougemont Gardens, inviting you to tune into the sounds of nature alongside the rhythms of the city. Designed as a slow, reflective walk, it's an opportunity to pause, listen, and immerse yourself in Exeter's rich soundscape.
Led by local musician Emma Welton, this new walk builds on the series of popular sound walks created across the city during lockdown, encouraging people to experience familiar places in a completely new way.
Time: 6pm
Date: Tuesday 15 September
Meeting Point: Exeter Library, Castle Street, Exeter EX4 3PQ
Whether you're curious about sound, enjoy mindful walking, or simply want to experience Exeter from a fresh perspective, this is your chance to hear the city differently.
Book here.
Step One Wellbeing Walks – Wednesday 16 September & Every Wednesday @ 10:45am
Discover a brighter path to wellbeing.
Take a step towards better wellbeing with Step One Charity's Exeter Wellbeing Walk – a welcoming, relaxed walk designed to boost your mood, reduce anxiety, and help you connect with nature.
The route follows the beautiful River Exe to Exeter Quay and back. Along the way, you'll enjoy stunning riverside scenery and have the chance to spot a wide variety of wildlife that calls the Exe Estuary home.
Time: 10:45am for 11am start
Date: Every Wednesday
Meeting Point: X Centre, Exeter Quay
The walk is approximately 3 miles long and is suitable for a wide range of abilities. With plenty of nearby amenities along the route, it's easy to take a break or leave the walk early if needed.
The session is open to anyone aged 18 and over living in Devon, making it a fantastic opportunity to enjoy fresh air, gentle exercise, and good company in a supportive environment.
To find out more and register your place, visit Step One Charity.
Rambo Rambles - Women Only – Thursday 17 September @ 10am
Hoopern Valley & Beyond.
After the school run head out for a for a morning of fresh air, friendly faces and hidden trails as we head off on a women-only adventure with Rambo Rambles.
Meeting at the lovely Sunset Society Café, we'll wander into the stunning Hoopern Valley—one of Exeter's best-kept secrets. Expect peaceful woodland paths, leafy trails, open green spaces and beautiful views, all just moments from the city. It's the perfect chance to switch off, soak up nature and discover a side of Exeter you may never have explored before.
This is all about enjoying the journey, not rushing to the finish. We'll walk at a relaxed, sociable pace with plenty of time to chat, laugh, take in the scenery and make new connections along the way.
Time: 10am-12pm
Date: Thursday 17 September
Meeting Point: Sunset Society Café, 5 Old Tiverton Road, Exeter EX4 6LD
Walk Details:
Distance: Approximately 6.5km
Elevation: 170m up | 165m down
Duration: Around 2 hours
Terrain: Woodland trails, tarmac paths and some muddy sections, with a few short but rewarding climbs.
Please Bring:
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Sturdy walking shoes or boots
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Weather-appropriate clothing
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Water and a snack
Perfect for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness who enjoys exploring the outdoors, is happy walking on uneven ground and doesn't mind tackling a few hills. Whether you're coming with a friend or joining solo, you'll be warmly welcomed.
Book here.
Devon Loves Dogs Waggy Walk – Thursday 17 September @ 10am
A guided dog walk with the Teignbridge Ranger exploring Ridgetop Park, between Matford and Exminster.
The walk is free, but booking is essential. Maximum of 1 dog per person. We will be exploring the whole of Ridgetop Park. Expect grassy paths, steep in places with fantastic views from the top and lots of space for our dogs to sniff and play. Join us to explore and learn about why this park is here and what makes it so special.
Time: 10am-12pm
Date: Thursday 17 September
Meeting Point: Trood Lane Car Park, Ridgetop Park, Matford (W3W://engage.soup.bond)
Book here.
Mindfully Wild Conservation Walk – Friday 18 September @ 10am
Discover the Alphin Brook: Nature Walk & Great UK Water Blitz.
Join us for a fun nature walk along the Alphin Brook and help with the Great UK Water Blitz!
Join Mindfully Wild CIC for a friendly 3.5-mile guided loop walk from St Thomas in Exeter to Ide as part of the Wellbeing Exeter Walking Festival.
Mindfully Wild CIC is a new community organisation that brings people together to improve wellbeing, connect with nature, and restore local habitats through practical conservation, wildlife monitoring, and community activities. This walk is a great opportunity to learn more about our Restoring the Alphin Brook project.
As part of the walk, we'll stop at The Twisted Oak pub for around 20–30 minutes to take a water quality sample as part of the Great UK Waterblitz. You'll learn how we monitor the health of the river and find out how you can get involved in future river monitoring sessions, practical conservation activities, and restoration work.
Bring a drink and a snack for the stop, or, if The Twisted Oak is open, you're welcome to purchase refreshments while we carry out the water sampling.
Time: 10:30am
Date: Friday 18 September
Meeting Point: St Thomas Methodist Church Car Park, Cowick Street, Exeter EX4 1JE
Important Information:
Distance: Approximately 3.5 miles
Parking: Do not park in the car park. Use local car parks or street parking
Duration: Around 2.5–3 hours, including the stop at The Twisted Oak
Terrain: A mixture of urban pavements, quiet rural lanes, and small, uneven countryside paths, with some uphill sections
Please wear suitable footwear and weather appropriate clothing, as paths may be uneven or muddy
Under 18's must be accompanied by an adult.
Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome where appropriate.
Booking is essential as places are limited - book here.
The Joy Collective: New Women’s Walking Series – Friday 18 September at 12pm
We’re delighted to introduce The Joy Collective, a new project bringing women together through walking, exploration, conversation, support and joy.
As part of the Walking Festival, Joy Collective will be launching a new series of walks along Exeter’s Green Circle.
The focus on connection and wellbeing fits perfectly with the Green Circle route, which travels through the breadth of Exeter’s neighbourhoods — from river valleys and wildlife parks to university grounds and quiet suburbs — offering a different perspective of the city beyond its well-known beauty spots.
We’re so excited to be supporting this new project as part of the Walking Festival and can’t wait to see how Joy Collective grows!
Time: 11:45am for 12pm start
Date: Friday 18 September
Meeting Point: St David's Station, Exeter
The walk is limited to 20 women, so early booking is recommended.
BOOKING DETAILS COMING SOON - WATCH THIS SPACE!
Social Walking Group – Saturday 19 September @ 10am
Join Exeter's Social Walking Group for an unforgettable adventure through one of Devon's most stunning landscapes!
This scenic 6-mile walk takes you to the beautiful Woodbury Pebblebed Heaths, where you'll discover sweeping views across rolling countryside and the dramatic coastline. It's the perfect opportunity to enjoy the fresh air, explore the great outdoors, and meet like-minded walkers along the way.
As the route crosses open heathland and uneven terrain, please wear suitable walking boots or sturdy shoes. Don't forget to bring plenty of food and drink to keep you fuelled throughout the journey.
Time: 10am
Date: Saturday 19 September
Meeting Point: Four Firs Car Park, Woodbury Common (W3W: ///weeds.growth.thankful)
Car sharing is recommended where possible.
Ready to join the adventure? Register your interest via the group's Facebook page here.
The Great West Walk – Sunday 20 September @ 9am
Join Exeter's Social Walking Group for an unforgettable adventure through one of Devon's most stunning landscapes!
The Great West Walk is a community walking challenge designed to bring people together through movement, nature and wellbeing. Starting and finishing at St James Park, participants will journey around Exeter’s Green Circle route, visiting communities, green spaces and local landmarks along the way. Whether you’re an experienced walker, looking to improve your wellbeing, or simply wanting to enjoy a day outdoors with others, The Great West Walk is open to everyone. Led by experienced walk leaders and supported by volunteers throughout the route, the event offers a welcoming and inclusive environment where participants can walk at a pace that suits them while raising funds for local wellbeing initiatives.
Time: 9am
Date: Sunday 20 September
Meeting Point: St James Park, Stadium Way, Exeter EX4 6PX
What To Expect On The Route
The Great West Walk follows Exeter’s Green Circle, a 14-mile (20km) circular route that showcases the very best of the city’s green spaces, communities and countryside. Throughout the day you’ll experience a mixture of:
🌳 Valley parks and nature reserves
🌿 Woodland and countryside trails
🏘️ Residential neighbourhoods
🚶 Pavements and shared pathways
🌉 Scenic viewpoints across Exeter
The varied route is one of the highlights of the event and offers a unique opportunity to discover parts of Exeter many people never usually visit.
Guided Walking Groups
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To ensure everyone enjoys the challenge, participants will walk in guided groups led by experienced staff and volunteers.
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Groups will be organised by pace, allowing walkers to choose a speed that feels comfortable for them. Regular stops at checkpoints provide opportunities to rest, refuel and socialise throughout the day.
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We want The Great West Walk to be as inclusive as possible.
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Prior to the event we’ll carry out detailed accessibility checks across the entire route.
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Where required, guided groups may be directed along alternative routes to avoid steep gradients or unsuitable terrain.
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If you have any accessibility requirements, please contact us before registering so we can discuss how best to support your participation.
What's Included?
☕ Hot drinks at checkpoints
🍌 Snacks throughout the route
🚶 Guided support from walk leaders
🦺 Fully marshalled event
❤️ Fundraising support
🎉 Finish line celebration
Small note: Participants should bring their own packed lunch, water bottle and any additional refreshments they may require.
Ready to join the adventure? Book here.
Walking Sports
Step into sport - at your own pace!
Who says walking has to be boring? Discover a whole new way to enjoy your favourite sports with Exeter's fantastic range of walking sports!
Whether you're returning to sport, looking to keep active, or simply want to try something new, walking sports let you experience all the excitement at a gentler pace. You'll still enjoy the thrill of serving an ace, scoring a goal, hitting the winning shot or sinking a basket – just without the running!
With sessions taking place across Exeter, there's something for everyone. Simply choose your sport, register with the organiser, and get moving!
Fossils Walking Rugby
Stay active. Stay social. Stay strong. Walking Rugby is a slower paced, non-contact version of the game we love – perfect for men and women aged 50+.
Time: 6-7pm
Date: Tuesday & Thursday
Meeting Point: Topsham RFC, Bonfire Field, Topsham EX3 0LY
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Improve Your Health
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Boost cardiovascular fitness, strength and flexibility
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Make New Friends
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Be part of a welcoming and supportive team
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Boost Your Wellbeing
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Reduce stress, improve mood and confidence
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Low Impact, High Benefit
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A safe, non-contact game that's easy on your joints
Just turn up and give it a go! Contact Topsham RFC for further information.
Walking Football
If you would like to exercise and socialise more, Walking Football could be the game for you. It’s a somewhat slower and more gentle form of the great game, which can be played purely for recreation or more competitively in leagues and tournaments. Men over 50 and women over 40 are welcome to play both with us and for us. Exeter Strollers Walking Football Club was formed in 2018 at Wonford Sports Centre. It has gone from strength to strength not just in terms of the number of players (over 110 in total) but in forming close friendships and a strong support group.
Sessions are held at Wonford Sports Centre on Tuesday mornings, Wednesday mornings and Wednesday evenings, as well as at King George V Playing Field on a Friday morning and at Exeter City's Cliff Hill complex on a Sunday evening.
Find out more via email: exeterwfc@gmail.com
Or check out their Facebook page here.
Walking Netball
Walking Netball is a friendly and inclusive programme, allowing women the opportunity to find their place in the sport. It’s netball, but at a walking pace and where the rules are slightly tweaked. Walking Netball has been designed so that anyone can play, regardless of age or fitness level.
The off-the-court experience is as important as the on-the-court experience. Sessions involve a cup of tea and a natter afterwards. Physically and mentally, it makes you feel good; particularly at key stages of women’s lives.
The Wonford Walking Netball Session is held at the Leisure Centre on Thursday from 11am-12pm at a cost of £6. It is not a requirement to register in advance but if you choose not to register online, please email the contact below so they are able to communicate with you should any cancellation occur. It is also recommended to arrive a few minutes early so payment can be made on arrival.
Time: 11am-12pm
Date: Thursday
Meeting Point: Wonford Leisure Centre, Rifford Road, Wonford, Exeter EX2 6NF
Check out the website here.
Booking link (you will need to create an England Netball Account): ENgage
Walking Basketball
Walking Basketball is built around three core principles - enjoyment over competition, basketball for all and being group-led. New members aged 18+ of all abilities are welcome and sessions are friendly, fun and inclusive. First session free then at a cost of £3-£4 per session.
Time: 7-8pm
Date: Sunday
Meeting Point: Exeter College Sports Hall, Victoria Yard (off Queen Street), Exeter EX4 3SR
Check out the Facebook page here.
If you’d like to give walking basketball a try, get in touch at exeterwalkingbasketball@gmail.com.
