Discover AquaPaddle Exeter at the Canal Basin, a serene 5 km paddle route offering both challenge and calm amid Exeter’s historic waterways.
Exeter
Paddle from the historic heart of the City out into the wonderful contryside
About
Welcome to AquaPaddle Exeter, nestled in the heart of the historic Exeter. Here, you can paddle along sheltered waters beside the River Exe and along the Exeter Ship Canal — one of England’s earliest artificial waterways.
Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or new to paddleboarding, kayaking or canoeing, this location offers a tranquil route through scenic waterways and wildlife habitats.
Finished events
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On site facilities
Parking
Parking is available within walking distance of the Canal Basin, making access to AquaPaddle Exeter convenient and straightforward. You’ll find car parks near the quay and along the canal (for example, Haven Banks car park) that serve as good staging points for your paddle excursions.
On busy days or during events, we recommend arriving early to secure a space, particularly near the Basin or the Quay. For those travelling by public transport, Marsh Barton railway station (opened in 2023) lies nearby and may offer an alternative approach.
Refreshments
Once you’ve built up an appetite, you are spoilt for choice with waterside cafés and pubs lining your paddle route. A favourite halfway stop is the Double Locks pub, which features a canalside pontoon so you can moor your board and relax for a drink or bite to eat. If you paddle further towards Turf, the Turf Hotel awaits with lovely pub gardens overlooking both the Exe and the canal. Back at the Basin, the Quay itself hosts several cafés and restaurants where you can refuel post-paddle under riverside views. Discover more local recommendations at Visit Exeter.
Facilities
Getting on the water from the Basin is effortless at AquaPaddle Exeter. The site utilises dedicated launch points into the calm, non-tidal canal waters, enabling safe entry even for beginners. No licence is required to paddle the Exeter Ship Canal, which simplifies the process for newcomers. For more local paddling information, see Exeter Kayak and Canoe Loops and Go Paddling’s Exeter Ship Canal Guide.