Turf Locks, Exminster, Devon
You’d be hard pushed to find a more unique pub than the Turf Locks; there it stands, timber framed, slate hung, overlooking the calm waters of the Exe estuary in an AONB, right at the end of Exeter’s historic ship canal. Is that not the kind of stuff that dreams are made of?
Inside it’s modern-rustic, infused with an ambience that comes with that special light of coastal areas; the family who run the Turf Locks are the friendly, smiley type and they love welcoming people to their pub, children and dogs included. There are some good offerings on the menu, creative, modern dishes with world flavours; for example, summer mains include Chargrilled Exminster lamb steak on flatbread, Indonesian beef Rendang curry, Chilli bean Nachos and Beer battered fish & chips. If that sounds like a belly full, go for a light bite - Thai fishcakes, Devon crab on sourdough, King prawns pan fried in garlic & parsley butter. In the summer they run a bbq and bar in the waterside beer garden so there’s always something to tempt you.
One thing; forget the car because you can’t drive to the Turf Locks. You can walk or cycle, or land by boat at their private pontoon; there’s a passenger ferry across from Topsham, though the adventurous types can hire kayaks from Saddles and Paddles at the quay in Exeter and paddle up. It’s what makes this place so unique, embrace it; you’ll love it.
Opening times vary with the seasons so please check the website
T: 01392 833128 All information correct at the time of writing