With reading week over and coursework starting to pile up, Her Campus Exeter have the perfect places for you to explore and take your mind off the academic side of university life.
1. Dartmoor
With one of England’s most beautiful National Parks right on our doorstep, there is no excuse not to embrace the picturesque landscape of Devon’s countryside. Fortunately, this gem is only a 40 minute journey car ride or coach journey down the motorway. The tranquillity of the natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage allows you to get away from it all. Alternatively, you can use the park as a way of getting active on foot, bike or horseback. The park boasts an impressive 730km of tracks, paths and moorlands. For the thrill seekers among you, Dartmoor is a great place to try out something new, such as climbing, canoeing and geocaching. After you’ve finished with the outdoors, why not take a visit to the local pubs to recharge your batteries, or support the local community at the farmers market or delicious food festivals. Dartmoor really does offer something for everyone, from relaxation to a myriad of outdoor pursuits.
2. Topsham
Only a short train ride away down the Exe estuary lies the quaint town of Topsham. Trains run conveniently every half hour from Exeter St. David’s/Central all day. A key player Exeter’s historical heritage, Topsham offers river walks, a Saturday morning market and characterful shops, restaurants and inns. Home to the notorious ‘Topsham 10’, here you can take part in the tradition of sampling a beverage from each pub while learning about the town’s history on the journey.
3. Exmouth
This popular seaside resort situated in the heart of the Jurassic Coast is yet another World Heritage site boasting outstanding natural beauty. On a sunny day, Exmouth’s stunning beach and clean air offers a departure from reality. An abundance of amenities can be found here, such as miniature golf, an open air swimming pool, and a boating lake. Even though the long sandy beach is a more ideal place to visit in the summer, through the cooler months the town still has something to offer. East of the beach lies the clifftop path leading into the neighbouring town of Budleigh Salterton, which offers a pleasant walk with an amazing view. If you are seeking a historical getaway, look no further than the Beacon, an area containing C19th historical buildings and manor gardens. Exmouth is easily accessible via train, bus, car or coach.
Hopefully, a trip to any one of these places will provide you with an escape and a much needed break from the dreaded essays and exams, but most importantly an enjoyable day out!
Photo Credits: Pinterest