Parks and gardens in Exeter

Exeter’s green landscape is defined by its unique Valley Parks, such as Ludwell and Riverside, which bring working farmland and wildlife corridors into the urban environment. The city also features historic horticultural sites like the 19th-century wisteria arch at Pinces Gardens and the Georgian lawns of Southernhay. From the expansive sports fields of King George V to the tranquil riverside views at Topsham Museum, these spaces offer diverse terrain including meadows, wetlands, and formal gardens.

Parks and Gardens — Map

A

Wisteria arch at Pinces Gardens.

Features a historic 45-metre wisteria arch, originally part of a 19th-century plant nursery.

B

Ludwell Valley Park

A 200-acre working farm and park offering hilltop views across the city and the Exe Valley.

C

Mincinglake Valley Park

A former landfill site reclaimed as a wooded valley park with wildflower meadows and stream-side walks.

D

Topsham Museum garden

A riverside garden at a 17th-century merchant's house, offering views across the Exe Estuary.

E

Exeter Community Garden

A community-managed space focused on sustainable food growing and biodiversity near the university.

F

Riverside Valley Park

Large park spanning the River Exe and Exeter Canal, featuring wetlands and extensive cycling paths.

G

Southernhay Park

Formal green spaces situated between historic Georgian terraces in Exeter’s professional district.

H

Heavitree Pleasure Ground

Urban park featuring tennis courts, a seasonal paddling pool, a skate park, and a community cafe.

I

Coronation Gardens

Small public garden located in the St Thomas area.

J

Minerva Country Park

New country park featuring newly planted woodland, walking trails, and views towards the Clyst Valley.

K

Belle Isle Park

Riverside park near Exeter Quay, used for rowing club access and picnics.

L

Ducke's Marsh

Riverside meadow and wetland area situated between the River Exe and the Exeter Canal.

M

Regent's Park

Local neighborhood park with open grass and mature trees in the Heavitree district.

N

Cowick Barton Playing Fields

Large recreational space adjacent to the 16th-century Cowick Barton Inn.

O

King George V Playing Fields

Major sports ground in Countess Wear featuring football pitches, cricket squares, and a children's playground.

P

Bullmeadow

Historic park in St Leonards featuring a large playground and mature tree-lined paths.

Q

Northbrook Approach

Green space following the Northbrook stream, providing a link between the city and the bypass.

R

Priory Road Park

Local recreational area in Mount Pleasant with open grass and play facilities.

S

Summerway Park

Open grassland and neighborhood park located in the Whipton area.

T

Thackeray Road Park

Small neighborhood park with open grass and play equipment.

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