History of the River Exe

The presence of the River Exe has undoubtedly shaped the economic development of Devon and the South-West. The Romans first saw the strategic value of Exeter, which stands at the river's lowest crossing point, and turned it into a stronghold for 5000 soldiers. From Exeter, the Romans were able to sail upstream to their most westerly outpost and quickly ward off impending trouble from the Brits.

As the centuries passed, both Exeter and Topsham became important trading ports, with Exeter quay being a hub of commercial activity. Further up river, Tiverton became equally independent on the Exe to supply water power for its booming wool industry.