Events at Exminster and Powderham Marshes
Discover exciting events at Exminster and Powderham Marshes.
Wildfire risk
With wildfire risk currently extremely high, we urge visitors to take extra care by avoiding any activity that could start a fire and immediately reporting any signs of smoke or fire to 999 to help protect people and wildlife. Please note, some of our nature reserves are closed due to wildfires, please check before you travel.
Advice on wildfire preventionThu 30 July 2026 12:00 Days out
Exminster and Powderham Marshes
ExminsterOpenSee opening timesPull on your boots and explore the winding trails through this vibrant reserve, spotting birds and insects around the pools and canals.
About
Just five miles from Exeter city centre, Exminster and Powderham Marshes are great places to see birds all year-round. Enjoy a lovely walk, exploring the marshland, canals, rivers and fields. Frequent fliers at Exminster and Powderham Marshes include flocks of geese, ducks and many waders. Look out for our regular Lapwings, Redshanks, Wigeons and warblers.
As Devon's premier wetland this area is not only an important place for wildlife, but a place filled with human history too. The land was originally part of the estuary until the Exeter Ship Canal was built in the 19th Century, and the remains of the RAF's Second World War signal interception base can still be seen today.
At a glance
30 spaces. 5 Blue Badge spaces. Uneven gravel surface. Car park at Exminster Marshes. Limited additional parking at Fisherman's car park at the end of Station Road adjacent to canal.
Nearest accessible facilities in Exeter around five miles away.
Nearest baby changing facilities in Exeter around five miles away.
Prior to your visit, please contact the reserve directly for detailed information.
Prior to your visit, please contact the reserve directly for detailed information. Nature trails access: All paths, unsurfaced and uneven grass, except section of canal path which is paved, but accessed via a reasonably steep incline.
Nearest toilets (patrons only) 500 m away at Swan’s Nest Inn and the Turf Hotel (closed in some winter months).
BBQs are a fire risk, endangering other people and the precious wildlife and habitats here. They are not permitted on the reserve at any time.
Dogs on public roads and footpaths only. Please keep dogs on leads at all times to limit disturbance to wildlife and grazing animals. No dogs allowed at Powderham Marshes as this is a permissive rather than public footpath.
Assistance dogs are welcome in all parts of the reserve.
See what’s here
Contact Exminster and Powderham Marshes
exe.estuary@rspb.org.uk Exminster and Powderham Marshes, Station House Station Rd, Exeter, Devon, EX6 8DZ 01392 833311