I read about construction of a connecting section of the Exe trail some time ago and when I learnt that it had opened recently, I dragged the family out at Christmas to check it out. The trail covers about twenty six miles from Dawlish on the west of the Exe to Exmouth on the east and is part of National Cycle Route 2. Way back when I’ve cycled the west side, but now walking, camera in hand, on the east side is more my thing. I’ve shown you many photos of Topsham before and the new link begins at Bowling Green Marsh, from there it crosses the River Clyst via a new 120 metre bridge, which was floated down the Exe on barges. The bridge goes across the RSPB Goosemoor Nature Reserve, providing stunning views of the area that have never before been accessible.
The photos above are all on the original partof the walk.
Over time the bridge and boardwalk will blend in. To be honest I’m disappointed that the sides are quite so high and there are just peepholes to look through, but of course the wildlife has to be protected.
It was a freezing cold day at the end of December but I’ll start at the bridge next time and head further east. It’s definitely a wonderful cycle route!
Lucid Gypsy 
All families should be dragged out at Christmas. And other times…
I agree about the high walls and peep hole only. 😦
Had not heard about this! Will also ‘drag’ the family when next home probably without much persuasion! Hope they have peep holes for 2 year olds!
I suppose, if you’re on a bike, you might be able to peep over the fence, but I agree, it would have been nice if there had been some peep holes built in so you could see around you on the bridge! I understand protection, but I don’t understand why the wildlife need privacy!
Wonderful countryside, Gilly. What a great family outing in the cold fresh air. 🙂 Pity about the excessively high fencing though.
actually the photo through the peep hole is great, it accentuates the landscape I think …. love the wintery colours and birds … I can’t believe I will soon be seeing this country but in summer! … those walkers certainly look cold 🙂
Beautiful pictures, it looks like a really peaceful place. I would have liked to be there with my family for a walk but I live so far away from that place. 😦
Bea
Really atmospheric photos, Gilly ~ I can feel the chill of the river in winter! I agree that the fence is very high and dominating at the moment, though I’m sure it will soon blend in. The viewing peepholes are a great compromise ~ looking forward to the next leg of the journey! 🙂
I agree with you about the high walls.
BE ENCOURAGED! BE BLESSED!