Devon-SUP
Paddleboarding-Exeter Canal and River Exe Loop
Paddleboarding Exeter Canal and River Exe Loop
A gentle, varied loop from Exeter Quay linking the Exeter Ship Canal and the River Exe, passing historic quayside buildings, a country park and water meadows.
Start at the basin at Exeter Quay and paddle south along the canal past the historic wharf buildings for 1.4km. Leave the canal just before Salmonpool Swing Bridge (Grid ref. SX 927 907; Lat/long: 50.70610, -3.52031) and portage your craft for 150m from the landing stage on the left bank to the River Exe, using the steps to access the water.
Continue downstream beneath the footbridge and on to Countess Weir Road Bridge. After 150m, exit the river via the steep slipway on the right. Cross the sewage works access road and use the landing stage to relaunch into the canal.
Paddle north (right) along the canal, passing back under the road bridge to reach the locks and pub. Use the pontoons opposite the Double Locks Inn to portage and stop for refreshments. Return along the canal to Exeter Quay, with excellent views of the distant cathedral and opportunities for wildlife spotting along the way.
Access restrictions No licence required.
Launch: Exeter Canal basin at AS Watersports Pontoon (please keep area free before/after launch), 300m walk from car park, EX2 8AX. Grid ref. SX 92067 91915; Lat/long: 50.71681, -3.53023
Parking Haven Banks car park (charges), Michael Browning Way, Exeter EX2 8HH
Pitstops Exeter Quay Topsham Brewery and Taproom – great beers and atmosphere for post-paddle pint www.topshambrewery.co.uk ; Boatyard Café and Bakery – good coffee and pastries www.boatyardbakery.co.uk ; Double Locks Inn – very popular Devon pub with open fires and good roasts www.doublelocks.com
Getting there Approach Exeter city centre on A377, at traffic lights turn R at Haven Banks sign and follow Haven Road to canal basin.
Special points On low tides, river Exe can be shallow downstream of St James Weir and some access points may be unusable, so starting trip 2hrs either side of high tide is recommended. Watch out for other water users and the low bridge at Salmonpool on your return to Exeter Quay.
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