Turf Locks & The Turf Hotel
5 miles from Exeter • Walk from Topsham 1.5 miles, from Double Locks 2 miles
Turf Locks is home to the famous Turf Hotel - a fascinating historical building where the canal meets the Exe Estuary, and you can only reach it by walking, cycling, horse, or boat! The family who run it love welcoming people, children, and dogs. The walk to get there is half the fun.
© Geograph, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Geograph
Easy
Walk from Topsham 1.5 miles, from Double Locks 2 miles
Lead required
Park elsewhere and walk in
Overview
Turf Locks is home to the famous Turf Hotel - a fascinating historical building where the canal meets the Exe Estuary, and you can only reach it by walking, cycling, horse, or boat! The family who run it love welcoming people, children, and dogs. The walk to get there is half the fun.
What to Expect
A unique destination. Walk a scenic stretch of the Ship Canal from Topsham Quay with misty marshland views and water on both sides. The Turf Hotel has a large garden with the Exe Estuary on one side and Turf Locks on the other. Stunning views, indoor bar, garden barbecue, and coffee hutch.
Best For
- ✓Unique pub destination
- ✓Canal walking
- ✓Estuary views
- ✓Dog-friendly adventure
- ✓Scenic walks
- ✓Dogs welcome inside and out
Not Ideal For
- ⚠Those needing car access (you can't drive here!)
- ⚠Quick visits
- ⚠Those who don't want to walk
Things to Be Aware Of
- ⚠NO road access - must walk, cycle, or boat
- ⚠Can be very busy on sunny days
- ⚠Popular - may be waits for food
- ⚠Dogs not allowed in restaurant area
Local Tips from Evie
Walk from Double Locks (about 2 miles) or Topsham (1.5 miles). Take the ferry from Topsham for variety. Book ahead for food on busy days. Dogs welcome inside and out (but not restaurant area) with water bowls provided. Continue to Powderham Castle from here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the Turf Hotel?
You can only reach it by walking, cycling, horse, or boat! Walk from Double Locks (2 miles), Topsham (1.5 miles/20 mins), or take the ferry from Topsham.
Is the Turf Hotel dog-friendly?
Very! Dogs are welcome inside and out, but not in the restaurant area. Water bowls are provided.
What facilities does the Turf Hotel have?
Indoor bar and restaurant, garden barbecue, coffee hutch, and garden bar. Large garden with stunning estuary views.
Practical Information
Turf Locks, Exminster
EX6 8EE
NO parking at Turf Locks - you can only reach it by walking, cycling, horse, or boat! Access from Topsham (20-minute walk along canal), Exminster, Powderham, or by ferry. Free parking beside the swing bridge on Bridge Road for canal walk.
Need a Dog Walker?
I walk dogs at Turf Locks & The Turf Hotel regularly. Get in touch if you need help.
Contact Me
