Topsham, Devon
Topsham is a lovely little town, only 4 miles from Exeter but it feels like a different world with the type of gentle ambience you’d expect in a quiet coastal village. That’s partly due to the scenery of course, right on the Exe estuary, and the narrow streets and alleyways with a charming mix of elegant town houses, cosy cottages and 17th century Dutch merchants houses.
The shops lining the main street are an eclectic mix of traditional stores and those of the lifestyle ilk; on the quay the old custom house is home to an antiques centre that rambles over three floors. In recent times Topsham has seen an influx of visitors coming to browse around after a shopping trip to nearby Darts Farm, especially in the summer months. It’s easy to escape the busier part of town by taking a stroll along the Goat Walk to Bowling Marsh Green Nature Reserve – particularly pleasant on calm summers evening or a late winters afternoon. Something else you can do is catch the passenger ferry across to the Turf Locks for a waterside drink.
Topsham has also gained a good reputation among foodies; popular spots are The Lighter Inn on the quay and The Passage House Inn, which is one of the best spots to watch the sunset over the estuary.
All information correct at the time of writing