Twixmas in Exeter

Twixmas, the period of downtime between Christmas and New Year when you can treat yourself to some well-earned relaxation.

A time for exploring and discovering new places, or even re-discovering old favourites. Whether it’s taking in the crisp winter air and burning off any festive excess exploring Haldon Forest or unwinding with a relaxing stroll along the River Exe as you take in nature’s wintry delights, the focus is on getting out and about to breath some fresh air and life into your body.

Exeter is blessed with an abundance of outdoor areas and activities just waiting to be explored, much of which can be accessed by foot. A popular way to find your way around the city, while learning about Exeter’s rich and proud history, is on a free Red Coat Guided Tour. There’s a range of tours available and what the expert guides don’t know probably isn’t worth knowing!

If one of your New Year resolutions is to become more active then why not get a head start with Exeter Riverside Parkrun. A free, fun and friendly 5k community event where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer or even just spectate and cheer everyone along. It’s a guaranteed feel good factor however you get involved.

For those who you’re feeling ambitious and rather fit then the Green Circle is a twelve mile walk that takes you on a journey from green countryside valley parks to quiet leafy suburbs, along the boundaries of Exeter. You’ll be surprised at some of the places you visit and the walk can also be broken down into five sections.

You can’t beat a relaxing stroll along the River Exe and there’s something about the tranquillity of the water that allows you to lose yourself. On foot or two wheels, you’ve got the freedom to go as far or as little as you like and it’s amazing what even just a short outdoor journey can do for the mind and your well-being. Dial into nature with a spot of bird watching along the river bank and bring along the Christmas leftovers for a ready-made picnic.

Offering miles of trails and endless activities, Haldon Forest Park provides the perfect setting to rediscover your connection with nature and the great outdoors. A range of exhilarating mountain bike trails will blast away the cobwebs and is perfect for some adrenalin-filled family fun or if you seek a little more isolation then head deeper into the forest where you’ll be treated to incredible views.

Leave the stresses out on the water and hop on board one of Stuart Line's ‘Festive Special River Cruises’. Sit back, relax and soak up the calm and sheltered waters of the River Exe. If the fresh wintry air becomes a little too much then snuggle up with a cosy blanket inside the covered, heated lower decks.

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Take a walk around the beautiful gardens of RHS Garden Rosemoor, to see the winter sculpture exhibition, then indulge in a festive afternoon tea.

Stroll over to our walking guide for some Twixmas inspiration around Exeter.