Exeter
Why we love Exeter
See what lurks below Exeter’s surface through its Underground Passages or keep your feet firmly on cobbled streets lined with independent shops, boutiques, and vibrant bars. Nature comes to life in Exeter’s suburbs, so take an amble through Ludwell Valley Park or go bird watching at RSPB Bowling Green Marsh. Now’s the time to discover Exeter, where history collides with modernity and nature mixes with urban culture.
Paddleboard with AS Watersports
Take to the Exeter Ship Canal with a paddle in hand as you see the city from the water. From canoes to stand-up paddleboards, Exeter’s waterways are waiting to be explored by you. Hire your equipment and head to the canal for a relaxing paddle and some serious sightseeing.
Exeter Cathedral
This historic gothic cathedral boasts glorious stained-glass windows and decorative stonework, and hosts events and experiences year-round. For a bird’s-eye perspective across Exeter, book a behind-the-scenes climbing tour of its North Tower.
Northernhay Gardens
Where history and nature meet – uncover the Romans and Saxons as you explore the blooming gardens. Dating back to 1612, the Northernhay Gardens are historically important. You can follow the pathways to discover statues and part of a Roman Wall.
Royal Albert Memorial Museum
Collections galore – find global artefacts, contemporary art and more at this art gallery and museum that celebrates the creative arts. In 2025, see ‘Pressing Images: prints from Exeter’s fine art collection’ which revisits printmaking’s roots.
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Discover Exeter Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece with intricate stonework, medieval stained glass, and a history dating back over 900 years.
Relax at Rougemont Gardens, a peaceful green space in the heart of the city, ideal for picnics and leisurely walks.
Dive into Exeter’s rich history, art and culture at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum with engaging exhibits for all ages.
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, independent shops, and waterfront cafes at the Historic Quayside, along the River Exe.
Fun Fact
Fun Fact
Exeter is home to the oldest working municipal underground passages in Britain. Dating back to the 14th century, these tunnels were originally built to bring fresh water into the city and are now open for guided tours.
Did you know?
Did you know?
- Exeter was founded as a Roman settlement called Isca Dumnoniorum in 50 AD, and parts of the original Roman city walls are still visible today.
- Located at the heart of Exeter, the Turk’s Head Brewery offers Experience Days, where participants can learn everything about the art of brewing, finishing off with lunch and a tasting option.
- Exeter’s Custom House once served as the city’s 17th-century trading hub. Today, it is home to a museum that tells the story of Exeter’s maritime history.
- Golf enthusiasts can tee off at Exeter Golf and Country Club. Nestled in lush parkland, this club offers a variety of activities for visitors, from golfing, tennis, swimming, or just relaxing in the spa.
- Exeter Phoenix is a dynamic arts centre offering everything from theatre performances and live music to workshops and art exhibitions.
Things to do in Exeter
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Featured things to do
Take a Red Coat Guided Tour
Free to attend, these tours are led by expert guides and offer insight into different aspects of life in Exeter. From royal stories to Exeter’s literature and forgotten tales, there’s something for everyone.
Follow a Red Coat Tour
On the water with Saddles and Paddles
Pick up your next ride here, with bikes, canoes, and kayaks all on offer to hire. Paddle or cycle along the canal, stopping off to see the sights and for some much-needed rest at pubs. Electric bikes and family-friendly child seats are on offer, too. Choose to follow the Exe Estuary Trail which is largely flat and traffic free.
Hire bikes, canoes and kayaks
Taste the season
Autumn at Powderham Castle is heralded by its popular food festival. Sample tasty bites from the region’s best food and drink producers in the castle’s historic parkland.
Eat local at Powderham Food Festival
Christmas at the Cathedral
You’ll find Devon’s biggest Christmas market at Exeter Cathedral this winter. There are over 100 festive chalets to browse, selling hand-crafted gifts and West Country produce. It’s also an ideal opportunity to visit the striking cathedral itself, built in the English Decorated architectural style.
Browse the stalls at Exeter Cathedral Christmas MarketPlaces to stay in Exeter
City centre
With well-known hotel brands, townhouses, and self-serviced apartments, it’s all about culture in Exeter’s city centre.
Exeter Quayside
Set next to the water, stay in the bustling quayside for easy access to watersports, waterside bars and restaurants and coffee shops.
Topsham
Head south of the city to the coastline for holiday cottages, farm stays and quaint inns among stunning countryside and coastal scenery.
Explore nearby
Getting to Exeter
Located in the south west of England, Exeter is well connected to Devon, Cornwall, London, and other destinations. Direct train journeys from London Paddington or London Waterloo take on average 3 hours 15 minutes and are operated by Great Western Railway and South Western Railway. By coach, you can travel from London Victoria to Exeter in 4 hours 10 minutes on average.
Exeter Airport is located 5 miles (8 kilometres) from the city, connecting the area to locations such as Edinburgh, Newcastle, the Channel Islands and more. You can travel to and from the airport to Exeter city centre with Stagecoach buses.
Getting around Exeter
By foot
A compact city with plenty of walks, Exeter is made to be explored on foot. Find countryside routes, sculpture trails and more.
By bike
For an eco-friendly way to travel the city, opt for a bike. Exeter is a cycle-friendly city and has numerous routes for cyclists to follow. Check out route maps and cycle trails.
By bus
Hop on a bus from Exeter Bus Station to travel around the city and beyond. Use the Devon Day Ticket for a cost-efficient option for travel around the county.
Want to know more?
Want to know more?
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