Kom een drankje drinken in de saloon van Gold Creek in Aalsmeer
1 / 10

Turf Locks

4.5
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

A historic, waterside pub offering amazing food and a peaceful retreat, accessible by scenic walks or ferry.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunny afternoons

Perfect for garden enjoyment

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Kom een drankje drinken in de saloon van Gold Creek in Aalsmeer

Turf Locks

Best Time

Sunny afternoons

Perfect for garden enjoyment

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic, waterside pub offering amazing food and a peaceful retreat, accessible by scenic walks or ferry.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"Easily one of the finest pubs in Devon, with nothing quite like enjoying a pint in the front garden."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶 Walk the Canal Path

Enjoy a scenic 20-min walk from the northern car park to reach this hidden gem. :athletic_shoe:

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Bring your furry friends along; they're welcome on a lead in this idyllic spot. :dog:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Waterside Pub Ambiance

Waterside Pub Ambiance

Front Garden

Enjoy a pint in a peaceful, relaxing garden with stunning views of the canal. Pure bliss on a lovely day.

Reddit
Delicious Local Catch

Delicious Local Catch

Restaurant

Savor amazing food, especially the fresh local fish and mussels. A true culinary delight.

Reddit
Historic Charm

Historic Charm

The Turf Hotel

Experience a beautifully restored 200-year-old building with authentic charm and modern comfort.

Reddit
Expansive Rear Garden

Expansive Rear Garden

Rear Garden

Ample space and seating options for soaking up the outdoors in this vast garden area.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Getting There: A Scenic Journey

Turf Locks is an 'off-the-beaten-track' destination, best reached by a scenic 20-minute walk along the Exeter Ship Canal from the northern car park, or a longer stroll from Powderham. Consider arriving by ferry for a truly unique experience! Reddit

Embrace the Outdoors

With vast gardens and waterside seating, Turf Locks is perfect for enjoying a pint or a meal outdoors. It's dog-friendly, making it an ideal spot for pet owners to relax. Reddit

Best Times

When
Sunny afternoons
Why
Perfect for garden enjoyment
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Peaceful and relaxing
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

What to do in Exeter on Sunday, 15th September – Recommendations for German tourists?

🚶 Walk the Canal Path

Enjoy a scenic 20-min walk from the northern car park to reach this hidden gem. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Bring your furry friends along; they're welcome on a lead in this idyllic spot. Reddit :dog:

🍽️ BBQ Bites Available

Grab a burger or hot dog from the barbecue area for a casual meal. Reddit :hamburger:

🚢 Arrive by Ferry

For a unique entrance, consider arriving via the river Exe ferry. Reddit :ferry:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶 Walk the Canal Path

Enjoy a scenic 20-min walk from the northern car park to reach this hidden gem. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Bring your furry friends along; they're welcome on a lead in this idyllic spot. Reddit :dog:

🍽️ BBQ Bites Available

Grab a burger or hot dog from the barbecue area for a casual meal. Reddit :hamburger:

🚢 Arrive by Ferry

For a unique entrance, consider arriving via the river Exe ferry. Reddit :ferry:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Turf Locks is celebrated as a unique waterside pub with an idyllic, off-the-beaten-track location. Visitors praise its amazing food, particularly the fresh local fish, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere. The extensive gardens and historic charm make it a peaceful retreat, though some find the prices a bit high. Reddit

"A unique waterside pub next to the lock at the southern entrance to the Exeter ship canal. Food is very good, if a bit pricey. Food can be ordered from the kitchen or the barbecue. Plenty of outdoor space with benches. Waiter service. Dog friendly if on a lead. It's necessary to walk along the canal from the northern car park which takes 20 minutes. Alternatively walk along the river bank from Powderham which takes a bit longer."

RJ Clarke

"The Turf Hotel is a hidden gem in an idyllic, off-the-beaten-track location. The food is amazing—especially the local catch of the day fish and mussels. Staff are warm and welcoming, especially Jen the manager. Rooms are spacious and comfortable. Very dog friendly and child friendly. A perfect, peaceful retreat!"

Elena King

"In terms of location, this is easily one of the finest pubs in Devon. The beer selection is spot on, and on a lovely day, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a pint in the front garden – it’s peaceful and thoroughly relaxing. The rear garden is absolutely vast, offering ample space and plenty of seating options for those who prefer to soak up the outdoors."

Enis Behar Menda

What People Like

Idyllic waterside location
Amazing fresh food
Dog and child friendly

What People Dislike

Can be pricey

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most popular way is a scenic 20-minute walk along the Exeter Ship Canal from the northern car park. Alternatively, you can walk along the river bank from Powderham, which takes a bit longer. Arriving by ferry along the river Exe is also a unique option. Reddit

Yes, there is a northern car park from which you can start your walk to Turf Locks. Reddit

The canal path is generally suitable for cycling, offering a pleasant route to the pub. Check local conditions for the best experience.

While direct public transport to the pub is limited due to its location, you can reach Exeter by bus or train and then commence your walk or ferry journey. Reddit

The walk along the Exeter Ship Canal is generally flat and well-maintained, offering pleasant views of the water and surrounding countryside. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Turf Locks is a pub and restaurant, so no tickets are required for entry. You pay for food and drinks consumed. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially seasonally. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.

There is no admission fee to enter the pub or its gardens. Reddit

Booking is recommended, especially during peak times or for dinner, to secure your preferred spot. You can usually book via their website or by calling them directly.

Turf Locks is generally open year-round, but it's always wise to confirm their operating schedule, particularly around public holidays.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

They offer a range of food, including excellent local catch of the day fish and mussels, as well as barbecue options like dogs and burgers. Reddit

Reviews suggest the food is very good but can be a bit pricey. Reddit It's considered good value for the quality and unique location.

While specific menus can change, pubs often offer vegetarian options. It's advisable to check their current menu or inquire directly about vegan choices.

Yes, there is a barbecue area serving dogs and burgers, offering a more casual dining experience. Reddit

Yes, breakfast is typically available for guests staying overnight, often laid out the next morning. Reddit

🎫 🐶 Pet & Family Friendliness

Absolutely! Turf Locks is very dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a lead. Reddit

Yes, it's described as child-friendly with plenty of outdoor space for kids to enjoy. Reddit

Most family-friendly pubs offer high chairs. It's a good idea to request one when booking your table if needed.

The large gardens provide space for children to explore and play in a safe environment. The unique waterside location can also be fascinating for them. Reddit

While dogs are welcome, it's best to stick to the food and water provided by the pub or bring your own dog treats. Always check their specific policy.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Turf Locks is a fantastic destination for families. The expansive gardens offer plenty of space for children to run around and explore safely, making it a stress-free environment for parents. Reddit The unique waterside location and the historic nature of the pub can also capture the imagination of younger visitors. Pack some snacks for the walk, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere where kids are genuinely welcome. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

This is a paradise for dog owners! Turf Locks is explicitly dog-friendly, welcoming your canine companions on a lead. Reddit The extensive outdoor space, including the large gardens, provides ample room for dogs to enjoy the fresh air alongside their owners. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely walk followed by a relaxing drink or meal with your well-behaved pet. Reddit

🚶 Hikers and Walkers

For those who love a good walk, Turf Locks is an ideal destination. The 20-minute canal-side stroll from the northern car park is a delightful prelude to your visit. Reddit Alternatively, longer routes like the one from Powderham offer a more substantial hike. The journey is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself, making it perfect for active travelers. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Location of Turf Locks

Turf Locks boasts an incredibly unique and somewhat isolated location, situated right next to the lock at the southern entrance of the Exeter Ship Canal. This 'off-the-beaten-track' setting is a significant part of its charm, making it feel like a hidden gem. Reddit The pub itself is over 200 years old and has a rich history, having been saved from demolition in the 1970s and lovingly restored. Reddit

Reaching Turf Locks is an experience in itself. The most common approach is a pleasant 20-minute walk along the canal towpath from a nearby car park. For those seeking a more adventurous arrival, a longer walk from Powderham or even a ferry trip along the River Exe offers a truly memorable way to approach this waterside establishment. Reddit This distinctive accessibility contributes to its peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of typical tourist spots.

Dining and Atmosphere at Turf Locks

The culinary experience at Turf Locks is highly praised, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Diners frequently rave about the 'local catch of the day' fish and succulent mussels, describing the food as 'amazing'. Reddit While some reviews mention it can be a bit pricey, the quality and the idyllic setting generally justify the cost. For more casual dining, a barbecue area serves up popular choices like dogs and burgers. Reddit

The atmosphere is a blend of historic authenticity and modern comfort. The pub has been refurbished while retaining its gorgeous character, offering a warm and welcoming environment. Reddit The extensive outdoor space is a major draw, featuring a front garden perfect for enjoying a pint with a view and a vast rear garden offering ample seating. This makes it an ideal spot to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, whether you're dining or just having a drink.

You may also like