Winter Foodie Experiences by Train

Even during the colder months, Exeter showcases the best foodie experiences that our region has to offer. Learn a new skill, discover how your favourite spirit or beer is created, then dig into irresistible food and drink in our city and beyond - all accessible with Great Western Railway!

Day 1

To fuel your day of foodie adventures, you need to start your day with a scrumptious breakfast! Head to Eat on the Green for a local hearty fry-up or indulge in savoury or sweet morning treats at Sacred Grounds, a vegan café in the centre of Exeter’s independent West Quarter.

It isn’t an adventure without snacks, right? Stock up on sweet, crumbly Roly’s Fudge, made using the best natural and carefully sourced ingredients. Chococo on Gandy Street is a haven for chocoholics, with fine chocolate boxes, lollies and even drinks and bakes to take away.

Head to Exeter Central station, just a few minutes’ walk from Gandy Street and hop on a GWR train to Topsham, the quaint historic port town on the Exe Estuary.

Visit The Galley Restaurant for the freshest seafood from a team that proudly presents the best that Devon has to offer on a plate. The Head Chef appeared on Masterchef: The Professionals in 2022!

Walk off yor lunch with a stroll along the narrow Goat Walk, which offers wonderful views across the River Exe Estuary. The estuary mudflats and Bowling Green Marsh RSPB Reserve attract tens of thousands of migrating wetland birds in winter, making this an internationally important site for bird watching. If you want to discover more, take a guided bird-watching cruise along the estuary, with Stuart Line Cruises.

Catch the train back to Exeter for a walk along the river on Exeter Quay, home to On the Waterfront - a local favourite known for their dust-bin lid pizzas, tapas and a great selection of locally-sourced beers, wines and spirits.

Day 2

Before another day of delicious discovery, grab a brunch (at the weekend!) or lunch at the Cosy Club, located in an old hospital building; a large, theatrical space with high ceilings and striking ‘institutional’ features!

From Exeter St David's, catch a GWR train to Teignmouth. Choose from a gin-filled tour and tasting experience at the Exeter Gin School, or learn how to make your very own 35cl gin with help from the experts. Don't miss the opportunity to take Exeter Gin home with you, as you’ll enjoy 10% off purchases at the bar or in the shop.

It’s time for a pint! Catch the train back to Exeter St David’s, for a tour of the nearby Exeter Brewery. Meet in the Tap Room for drinks followed by a tour of the Brewery itself, lasting approximately 40 minutes, where you’ll discover the process of making the award winning ales. After the tour, order from a selection of award-winning pies along with mash, minted peas and proper gravy! Alternatively head into Exeter city centre to the historic and cosy Turk's Head pub, where you can take a tour of their micro-brewery, or if you have more time, book the full day Brewery Experience with lunch!