Cricklepit Mill
A hidden wildlife garden and historic mill machinery offering a peaceful nature escape in the heart of Exeter.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more wildlife
Cricklepit Mill
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden wildlife garden and historic mill machinery offering a peaceful nature escape in the heart of Exeter.
"A wonderful place to visit for such a small area it has a huge amount of nature value."
Fill the Bird Feeder!
:seedling: Contribute to the ecosystem by filling the bird feeders. A small act for nature!
Explore the Machinery
:gear: Even if you can't enter, the exterior mill machinery is fascinating to examine up close.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wildlife Garden Oasis
Adjacent to the mill
A surprisingly rich haven with bug hotels, bird boxes, and a pond teeming with life. A peaceful escape.
Historic Mill Machinery
Exterior of the mill
Admire the impressive, well-preserved machinery of Cricklepit Mill, a testament to its industrial past.
River Exe Views
Along the riverbank
Enjoy tranquil views of the River Exe, though sometimes marred by shopping trolleys. A spot to unwind.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wildlife Garden
Check Opening Times
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Fill the Bird Feeder!
:seedling: Contribute to the ecosystem by filling the bird feeders. A small act for nature!
Explore the Machinery
:gear: Even if you can't enter, the exterior mill machinery is fascinating to examine up close.
Peaceful City Escape
:park: A relaxing spot amidst Exeter's bustle. Perfect for a short nature break.
Learn About Nature
:books: The visitor center offers great info on local wildlife and volunteering opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
Fill the Bird Feeder!
:seedling: Contribute to the ecosystem by filling the bird feeders. A small act for nature!
Explore the Machinery
:gear: Even if you can't enter, the exterior mill machinery is fascinating to examine up close.
Peaceful City Escape
:park: A relaxing spot amidst Exeter's bustle. Perfect for a short nature break.
Learn About Nature
:books: The visitor center offers great info on local wildlife and volunteering opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cricklepit Mill is praised as an impressive wildlife garden offering significant nature value in a compact city space, with its historic mill machinery also being a point of interest. While some note the presence of shopping trolleys in the river, the overall sentiment is that it's a relaxing and educational spot, ideal for a short break.
"Impressive wildlife garden in middle of city near quayside. Shame about shopping trollies in River. But a relaxong spot."
Derek C
"Couldn't go in but really enjoyed a close examination of the machinery of Cricklepit Mill."
Paul Davies
"Excellent venue to learn about Wildlife and tour Environment"
David McGregor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cricklepit Mill is conveniently located near the Exeter Quayside, making it easily accessible on foot from the city center. Many visitors arrive as part of a walk along the River Exe or from nearby shopping areas. +1
While there isn't dedicated parking directly at the mill, several car parks are available in the city center and near the Quayside, such as the Guildhall Shopping Centre car park or the Haven Banks Car Park.
Yes, cycling is a great option! The Quayside area is well-connected by cycle paths, and you can often find bike racks nearby.
Exeter city center is served by numerous bus routes, and the Quayside is a short walk from most central bus stops. The nearest train station is Exeter St Davids, which is also within walking distance or a short bus ride away.
Look for signs pointing towards the Exeter Quayside. Cricklepit Mill is situated along the River Exe, a short distance from the main Quayside attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Cricklepit Mill wildlife garden and to view the exterior machinery is generally free. However, the visitor center may have specific opening hours.
The wildlife garden and visitor center are often open Monday to Friday, but it's best to check the exact opening times before your visit, as they can vary.
While the exterior machinery is always visible, the visitor center and wildlife garden might have limited weekend access. It's advisable to confirm their operating days.
No, the wildlife garden is typically free to enter, making it an accessible spot for everyone to enjoy nature.
The visitor center inside Cricklepit Mill has friendly staff who can provide plenty of information for anyone interested in volunteering or learning more about nature conservation.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The wildlife garden is designed to attract a variety of species, including many birds and bugs. You might also spot wildlife in the small pond and along the River Exe.
You can explore the wildlife garden, admire the historic mill machinery, relax by the river, and learn about local nature and conservation efforts in the visitor center.
Yes, children can enjoy exploring the wildlife garden, looking for bugs and birds, and seeing the impressive mill machinery. It's a great educational spot.
There aren't specific picnic facilities mentioned, but finding a quiet spot along the riverbank to enjoy a packed lunch is often possible.
The machinery at Cricklepit Mill is a historical remnant of its industrial past, showcasing the engineering and processes used in milling.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the intricate details of the mill machinery, the diverse flora and fauna in the wildlife garden, and the scenic views along the River Exe.
Absolutely! The wildlife garden is a prime spot for macro photography of insects and close-ups of birds, especially if you fill the feeders.
Yes, the exterior of the mill and its machinery are excellent subjects for industrial heritage photography.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage on-site.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for both wildlife and landscape photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The historic mill machinery also provides a visual spectacle that can spark imagination about the past. It’s a great place for a brief educational outing, combining a bit of history with the wonders of nature, all within a manageable urban setting. Remember to check opening times for the visitor center if you want to delve deeper into local wildlife information.
🚶♀️ Solo Explorers & Day-Trippers
It’s a place where you can easily spend 30 minutes to an hour, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and observing the local flora and fauna. The opportunity to contribute by filling bird feeders adds a rewarding element to the visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Wildlife Garden: A Miniature Ecosystem
During visits, many birds and bugs have been observed, highlighting the success of these conservation efforts. The stream running through the area also adds to the tranquil atmosphere, providing a perfect spot to unwind and observe nature. It's a testament to how even small urban spaces can be transformed into vital habitats for wildlife.
For those interested in environmentalism or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Cricklepit Mill offers a unique blend of history and nature. It serves as an excellent example of community-led conservation and provides a valuable educational resource for all ages.
Exploring the Historic Mill Machinery
Visitors often express their enjoyment in closely examining the intricate workings of the mill. It’s a chance to appreciate the scale and complexity of historical industrial equipment, sparking curiosity about its function and the people who operated it.
While the mill's operational days are long past, its preserved machinery stands as a monument to its history. It's a visual reminder of the area's industrial significance and a point of interest for history buffs and curious onlookers alike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit