Days out
Matford Marshes
MatfordOpenSee opening timesLeave the bustle of city life and explore a small but vibrant wetland reserve humming with life, on the outskirts of Exeter.
About
This small site, located halfway between Exeter and Exminster, is an excellent place to watch wildfowl and waders. Cyclists, walkers and joggers regularly use the track that leads to it, sharing this quiet reserve with Green and Common Sandpipers, Mallards and Mute Swans.
This little reserve is made up of wetland, grassland and marshland. Just three miles from the city centre, Matford Marshes helps to protect Exeter from flooding by holding excess water after heavy rain or snow. The changes in water levels also mean it's good for birds, as it provides a rich feeding habitat for waders which stop by to forage on the muddy edges.
At a glance
No car park on-site. Limited space in the lay-by just west of the roundabout (not adjacent to pedestrian crossing).
There are no toilets here. Nearest accessible facilities in Exeter around 5 miles away.
There are no toilets here. Nearest baby changing facilities in Exeter around 5 miles away.
There is a pushchair-safe cycle/walkway through the southern boundary of the reserve which continues through private fields.
Cycle/walk way with wide tarmac surface connects Matford roundabout to Marsh Barton trading estate.
There are no toilets here. Nearest toilets (patrons only), Devon Hotel restaurant, 2 miles (4 km) away.
BBQs are a fire risk, endangering other people and the precious wildlife and habitats here. They are not permitted on the reserve at any time.
Dogs allowed on the cyclepath/walkway that runs alongside the southern boundary of the reserve. Assistance and other dogs welcome at all times.
Assistance dogs are welcome in all parts of the reserve.
See what’s here
Contact Matford Marshes
exe.estuary@rspb.org.uk Matford Marshes, Dawlish Rd, Exeter, Devon, EX2 8XR 01392 833311