Last week we grabbed a short break in the wet weather and explored a Hambeer Lane circular walk near Exeter. At just 1.5 miles, it’s short enough for a quick stroll but still offers charming countryside views and a peek at the village of Ide.
For more ideas on things to do in the area, check out our Things to Do in Exeter page.
With the rain clouds finally easing, it felt like the perfect excuse to get some fresh air. We didn’t have a big hike planned — just a spontaneous walk to stretch the legs and enjoy a break in the weather.
What we ended up with was a lovely little loop with some surprisingly nice views across Exeter and the surrounding countryside, making it a perfect quick escape from the city.
Where the Walk Starts
We started at the top of Dunsford Road, where Hambeer Lane begins on the western side of Exeter. From here we followed the lane heading south-east, a quiet stretch lined with hedges that quickly makes you forget how close you still are to the city.
The Route
The main highlight of this walk is Hambeer Lane. It starts as a quiet lane but gradually becomes more of a track, with hedges and trees lining the route — the most enjoyable part of the loop.
At a few points along the track there are small breaks in the hedges where you can catch glimpses of the surrounding landscape. Looking north-east, parts of Exeter are visible, with Exeter Cathedral standing out in the distance. Looking south, you can see down towards the village of Ide, with the A30 stretching across the valley.
Along this section we also passed a small paddock with a couple of horses — one of them wandered over to the fence and seemed almost to say hello as we walked past. It was a small, delightful moment that made the rural stretch of the walk feel even more special.
Eventually we turned left and headed downhill towards Cowick Lane, leaving Hambeer Lane behind and beginning the return part of the loop.
Once on Cowick Lane, we turned left and followed the pavement along the road before continuing through Broadway, Greenway, and Littleway, passing through the residential streets before reaching a small pedestrian access path back onto Dunsford Road. A short walk up Dunsford Hill brought us back to the start, completing the loop.
At around 1.5 miles, it’s ideal if you:
- want a quick countryside escape
- only have an hour free
- are trying to squeeze in a walk between showers
This shorter loop is actually part of a larger circular walk we hope to explore another day. It worked perfectly as a spontaneous outing during a break in the wet weather.
What We Loved About This Walk
Peace and quiet — despite being close to Exeter, the rural parts of the route felt calm and uncrowded.
Countryside views — glimpses of Exeter and Ide in the valley, plus a view of Exeter Cathedral from Hambeer Lane.
A charming encounter — along Hambeer Lane we passed a small paddock with a couple of horses, and one of them wandered over to the fence, almost seeming to say hello!
A proper circular route — no retracing your steps, making it perfect for a short outing or spontaneous walk.
Tips if You’re Planning This Walk
A few things to keep in mind if you try it yourself:
- Wear decent footwear if it’s been wet
- Some sections can be muddy after rain
- Bring water if it’s a warm day
- Keep dogs on leads around livestock
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a simple circular walk near Exeter, this is definitely one worth trying.
It’s peaceful, scenic, and easy to fit into a free morning or afternoon.
We’ll definitely be doing this one again.
For more ideas on attractions, places to eat, shopping areas, and local events, check out our Things to Do in Exeter page.
Have you done this walk before?
Let us know in the comments or share your favourite walks near Exeter!