Activities

The following activies are suggestions for Sunday, July 5, 2026. While we are happy to coordinate some of these activities, they are not formally organized by the conference organizers or the University of Exeter. All activities are on participants’ own risk and liability, and at their own expenses. Members of the local organizing committee might be present at some but not all of these activities.

Hike on Dartmoor

Dartmoor is a vast and rugged landscape perfect for hiking enthusiasts. Known for its rolling moorlands, dramatic granite tors, and ancient stone circles, the area offers a mix of challenging terrain and scenic beauty. Be prepared for a moderately strenuous hike. Wear sturdy, waterproof boots, and pack sun protection, water, and snacks to stay hydrated and energized. As there may be a lack of reliable mobile signal, a compass, map, or GPS device can be useful.

Schedule:

Take the 9:32 train from Exeter Central (9:37 from Exeter St Davids) to Okehampton.
Arrive 10:18 at Okehampton and meet in front of the rail station.
Circular hike (follow link for map and directions) through the East Okement Valley and across the moor, with a stop at The Tors Inn in Belstone for lunch and refreshments.
Catch the train from Okehampton at 16:23 and return to Exeter Central at 17:05.

GWR rail tickets can be bought online or from ticket machines at the stations. Allow for sufficient time if purchasing tickets just before departure, as there is only a small number of ticket machines.

Steam Railway and River Cruise

This day trip takes you to a particularly scenic part of Devon. Explore the “English Riviera” by (steam) train, and dive into a world of rich history, a beautiful landscape, and local produce at Dartmouth – a popular tourist destination and historic maritime port.

Schedule:

Take the 8:20 train from Exeter St Davids to Paignton.
Board the 10:15 steam train from Paignton to Kingswear.
Cross the river by ferry to Dartmouth and embark the 12:30 cruise ship for the 1-hour circular cruise on the river Dart. (Alternatively, the cruise can be skipped and tickets bought for the steam train only, providing more flexibility regarding train times.)
Enjoy some lunch in the picturesque town Dartmouth.
Ferry back over the river to Kingswear and catch the 15:15 steam train to Paignton. (Check ferry times and allow for sufficient time to cross the river before the train departure.)
Take the 16:16 train from Paignton, returning to Exeter St Davids at 17:11.

Tickets for the steam train and river cruise must be bought in advance. Places are limited. GWR rail tickets from Exeter to Paignton can be bought online or from ticket machines at the stations. Allow for sufficient time if purchasing tickets just before departure, as there is only a small number of ticket machines.

Jurassic Coast Cruise

The Jurassic Coast is England’s only natural World Heritage Site with dramatic red cliffs offering ample photo opportunities. If hiking on the South West Coast path seems too strenuous, you can enjoy this exceptional place of geology and history by cruise ship.

Schedule:

Take the 9:19 train from Exeter Central to Exmouth.
Take a stroll to the esplanade and head to Exmouth Marina.
Embark the 11:00 Stuart Line cruise ship for the 2-3 hours circular cruise along the coast and on the open sea.
Return trains to Exeter run every half an hour.

A ticket for the cruise must be bought in advance. Places are limited. GWR rail tickets from Exeter to Paignton can be bought online or from ticket machines at the stations.

Walks on the South West Coast Path

There are various options for self-guided walks or hikes along the South West Coast Path (follow the link for suggested routes). Enjoy breathtaking views of the ever-changing landscape from the cliff tops on England’s longest waymarked long-distance footpath, stretching for 630 miles around the South West Peninsula.

Starting points in Exmouth, Dawlish, Teignmouth, Torquay, or Paignton can be reached from Exeter by train. Note that most walks are not circular and may take several hours. The Devon coastline is rugged with steep ascents/descents. Make sure to plan your walk in advance, to wear suitable footwear, carry plenty of food and water, and think about sun protection. Check in advance for potential exit points with access to rail or local bus services. A relatively easy section of the path stretches from Dawlish Warren to Dawlish or from Dawlish to Teignmouth.

Visit of Exeter Cathedral

Exeter Cathedral, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks with the longest uninterrupted vaulted ceiling in England, is open for visitors on Sundays from 11:30 to 16:00. While we are not organizing a guided tour, we suggest that interested participants meet in front of the cathedral at 15:00 for a joint self-guided visit. Admission fees apply.

Walking or Cycling along the River Exe

A popular walking destination is the Double Locks pub with large beer garden downstream at the river Exe, just 45 minutes from the Quay. Head there for lunch and enjoy a traditional Sunday Roast. The river estuary can also be explored on wheels. Bicycles can be hired from Saddles & Paddles at the Quay. Cycle routes on both sides of the river can take you all the way to the coast. A popular destination is The Turf, a pub half-way to the sea on the southern side of the river. Reserve your bike in adance or arrive early on Sunday morning to avoid disappointment.

Other Activities in Exeter

For those aiming for a relaxed afternoon in Exeter, Jazz on the Quay from 12:30 to 15:30 might provide just the right atmosphere. Admission is free. To explore the history of the city, consider joining one of the free Exeter Red Coat guided tours or visiting the Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM) & Art Galery. For another Exeter attraction, the medieval underground passages, advance booking is recommended.