Exeter Bridge
A vital city landmark connecting communities and offering scenic river views, with a unique swing bridge nearby.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light
Exeter Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vital city landmark connecting communities and offering scenic river views, with a unique swing bridge nearby.
"Capture stunning views of St. Michael's spire from the Iron Bridge, a classic Exeter vista."
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Plan your visit around local events like football matches to avoid congestion. Consider public transport or walking.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
The light around Exeter Bridge and the Iron Bridge is stunning during sunrise and sunset.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Swing Bridge
Countess Wear
Witness the impressive engineering of the swing bridge as it opens for boats. A rare sight offering unique photo opportunities.
St. Michael's Spire Views
Iron Bridge
Capture picturesque views of St. Michael's spire, framed by the Iron Bridge. A classic Exeter vista perfect for photographers.
Devon Derby Atmosphere
Near St James Park
Experience the electric atmosphere of the Devon Derby football match, a passionate local rivalry. Feel the energy of the fans.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Exeter Bridge
Understanding Local Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Plan your visit around local events like football matches to avoid congestion. Consider public transport or walking.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
The light around Exeter Bridge and the Iron Bridge is stunning during sunrise and sunset.
📅 Check Local Events
The bridge area hosts events like vintage car rallies. Check schedules to catch them or avoid crowds.
⚽ Football Fan Experience
If visiting during a Devon Derby, expect a lively atmosphere around St James Park.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Plan your visit around local events like football matches to avoid congestion. Consider public transport or walking.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
The light around Exeter Bridge and the Iron Bridge is stunning during sunrise and sunset.
📅 Check Local Events
The bridge area hosts events like vintage car rallies. Check schedules to catch them or avoid crowds.
⚽ Football Fan Experience
If visiting during a Devon Derby, expect a lively atmosphere around St James Park.
🌉 Swing Bridge Schedule
The canal bridge at Countess Wear opens for boats. Check local alerts for timings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Exeter Bridge is a functional landmark offering scenic views and access to the river. Visitors appreciate the photographic potential, especially of St. Michael's spire and the unique Swing Bridge. However, some find the area can be congested, particularly during local events like football matches.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Exeter Bridge is centrally located and accessible by car, bus, and on foot. Several bus routes stop nearby. If driving, be mindful of city center parking availability and potential traffic, especially on match days.
There are several car parks in Exeter city center, some within walking distance of the bridge. However, parking can be expensive and fill up quickly, particularly during events.
Yes, Exeter Bridge is easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city center. It's a pleasant walk along the river or through the city streets.
Numerous bus routes serve the Exeter city center, with stops close to Exeter Bridge. Check local bus timetables for the most convenient options.
The bridge itself is generally accessible, but surrounding pavements and routes may vary. It's advisable to check specific access points if mobility is a concern.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Exeter Bridge is a public thoroughfare and does not require tickets for general access. However, if you plan to attend an event like a football match at St James Park, you will need match tickets.
There are no entry fees to walk across or view Exeter Bridge. Any costs would be associated with parking or attending specific events in the vicinity.
Exeter Bridge is open 24/7 as it's a public road. However, access might be restricted during major events or roadworks.
The Swing Bridge at Countess Wear is part of the canal and opens for boat passage. While you can view it from the banks, specific viewing times depend on marine traffic. 
Local council websites, tourism boards like Visit Exeter, and local news outlets often list events happening in the city, including those near Exeter Bridge.
📸 📸 Photography
The Iron Bridge offers great perspectives of St. Michael's spire. The riverbanks provide scenic views, and the Swing Bridge area is unique when it's in operation.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) offer beautiful light for capturing the bridge and surrounding scenery.
Drone usage is subject to regulations. Always check local bylaws and airspace restrictions before flying a drone, especially near populated areas or waterways.
Generally, photography is permitted in public areas. However, be mindful of private property and any temporary restrictions during events.
When the Swing Bridge opens, you can capture impressive shots of its mechanism and the boats passing through. Drone footage can offer a unique aerial perspective.
🎫 ⚽ Football & Sports
Exeter City Football Club plays at St James Park, which is located a short distance from Exeter Bridge. The 'Devon Derby' against Plymouth Argyle is a major local fixture. +1
Match days, especially for the Devon Derby, are very lively with passionate fans creating a vibrant atmosphere in the city and around the stadium. +1
St James Park is within walking distance of Exeter Bridge, or you can take a short bus or taxi ride.
Exeter has various sports facilities, but the most prominent sporting event associated with the bridge area is football.
The Devon Derby is the intense football rivalry between Exeter City FC and Plymouth Argyle FC, drawing significant local attention and passionate support. +2
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities directly on the bridge are limited. Consider a visit to nearby parks or playgrounds after exploring the bridge area. If attending a football match is of interest, St James Park is generally family-friendly, but it's advisable to check specific family enclosure policies and book tickets in advance, especially for high-profile games like the Devon Derby.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The Swing Bridge at Countess Wear presents a unique subject when it's in operation, offering dynamic shots of engineering and water. For those interested in urban landscapes, the bridge itself offers interesting architectural lines and city views. Capturing the energy of match days near St James Park can also yield compelling street photography, though it requires navigating crowds.
⚽ Football Fans
Even outside of derby matches, Exeter City FC games offer a glimpse into local football culture. The club has a strong community connection, and attending a match provides an authentic experience of English league football.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Exeter Bridge
Beyond its functional role, the area around Exeter Bridge offers scenic views and access to the river. Whether you're a local or a visitor, it provides a sense of place and a connection to Exeter's history and ongoing life. The bridge's architecture itself is a point of interest, blending with the urban landscape.
For those interested in the broader Exeter experience, understanding the bridge's significance helps contextualize the city's layout and its social fabric. It's a place where daily life unfolds, and special occasions are marked.
The Engineering Marvel: Countess Wear Swing Bridge
When the bridge opens, it's typically for scheduled boat movements, and local alerts often announce these times. This provides a window for visitors to witness the impressive mechanics firsthand. Drone footage has captured the bridge's operation from unique angles, emphasizing its scale and the surrounding waterway.
Visiting the Swing Bridge offers a glimpse into the practicalities of canal navigation and the engineering solutions that enable it. It’s a point of interest for those who appreciate industrial heritage and the intricate workings of infrastructure.
The Passion of the Devon Derby
TikTok videos often capture the raw emotion and excitement of derby day, from pre-match build-ups to post-game reactions. These clips showcase the vibrant fan culture and the significance of the game to the local communities. The energy extends beyond the stadium, influencing the mood of the city.
For football enthusiasts, experiencing a Devon Derby is more than just watching a game; it's immersing oneself in a deeply rooted local tradition. The passion displayed by supporters underscores the importance of this sporting rivalry.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit