Topsham
4 miles from Exeter • Various routes from 1-5km (Topsham to Turf Locks about 1.5 miles)
Topsham is a charming estuary town with wonderful dog walking along the quay and Exe Estuary. A scenic stretch of the Ship Canal runs between Topsham Quay and Turf Locks with misty marshland views. Most of the cafes and pubs are dog-friendly. Keep an eye on the tide times to avoid flooded paths or sticky mud.
© David Smith, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Geograph
Easy
Various routes from 1-5km (Topsham to Turf Locks about 1.5 miles)
Lead required
Pay and display in main car parks. Blue badge holders free.
Overview
Topsham is a charming estuary town with wonderful dog walking along the quay and Exe Estuary. A scenic stretch of the Ship Canal runs between Topsham Quay and Turf Locks with misty marshland views. Most of the cafes and pubs are dog-friendly. Keep an eye on the tide times to avoid flooded paths or sticky mud.
What to Expect
Historic streets, waterfront walking along the estuary. Walk south from the historic dock (with its informative museum) to Turf Locks. The Goat Walk path along the estuary is particularly scenic. Hungry walkers will find respite at the Turf Hotel whose large beer garden is dog-friendly.
Best For
- ✓Combining walking with pub lunch
- ✓Estuary views
- ✓Dog-friendly cafes and pubs
- ✓Accessible flat walks
- ✓Train access (Avocet Line)
- ✓Ferry adventures
Not Ideal For
- ⚠Off-lead exercise
- ⚠Quiet walks (can be busy)
- ⚠Dogs who chase birds
Things to Be Aware Of
- ⚠Keep dogs on lead throughout
- ⚠Busy with people at weekends
- ⚠Estuary wildlife - keep dogs controlled
- ⚠Cyclists on shared paths
- ⚠Check tide times to avoid flooded paths
- ⚠Parking can be minimal at busy times, especially summer
Local Tips from Evie
The Bridge Inn and Lighter Inn are wonderfully dog-friendly. Walk the Goat Walk for estuary views. Take the ferry to Turf Locks for a real adventure! Free parking beside the swing bridge on Bridge Road if you want to do the canal walk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which pubs in Topsham are dog-friendly?
Most Topsham pubs welcome dogs! The Bridge Inn and Lighter Inn are particularly popular with dog owners. Most allow dogs in bar areas and gardens.
Can I take a ferry from Topsham with my dog?
Yes! The ferry to Turf Locks welcomes dogs. It's a great way to extend your walk.
Where should I park in Topsham?
Main car park is off Holman Way (pay and display). For the canal walk to Turf, use the free parking beside the swing bridge on Bridge Road.
Practical Information
Topsham Quay, Topsham
EX3 0AJ
Main car park off Holman Way (EX3 0EN) - pay and display. Also car park behind Old Fire Station. Limited parking on Bowling Green Road. Free parking beside the swing bridge along Bridge Road for canal walk. Darts Farm (EX3 0QH) has parking with cafe and shops. Blue badge holders free at Holman Way and Topsham Quay (EX3 0JB).
