Best Things to Do in Exeter During Autumn 2022

Boasting glorious surrounding countryside and rich history, Exeter is the ideal place for a UK staycation. One of the oldest cities in Britain, Exeter is home to many attractions, such as a historic cathedral and a fascinating museum. It also has a fantastic food scene, featuring top local produce from South West England. And its proximity to Dartmoor National Park means it’s a great base for a scenic walk.

Some of the best places to visit in Exeter are:

• Exeter Cathedral
• Royal Albert Memorial Museum
• Underground Passages
• Exeter Quayside
• Northernhay Gardens
• Bill Douglas Cinema Museum
• Haldon Forest Park

Organising a visit to Exeter this autumn? Read on for our complete guide to this Devon city, with recommendations to help you build the perfect itinerary.

Exeter Cathedral

Opening times: 09:00 – 17:00 Monday to Saturday, and 11:30 –16:00 on Sundays

A trip to Exeter wouldn’t be complete without visiting its incredible cathedral. A wonderful example of Gothic architecture, the cathedral dates back to 1114 AD and is a top Exeter attraction. There are many unique details to discover here, such as the Astronomical Clock and remarkable stained glass.

Explore the cathedral at your own pace with a free audio guide, or join a guided tour and find out more about the history of this magnificent building. See more information about guided ground floor tours and special tours here.

Royal Albert Memorial Museum  

Opening times: 10:00 – 17:00 Tuesday to Sunday

Learn more about Exeter’s history and global connections at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery. There are 16 galleries to discover here, displaying everything from exotic birds to clocks and watches from the city’s collection.

The museum has lots of things to interest little ones, such as its Treasures of the Museum Trail, which gives everyone the chance to choose their favourite object. What’s more, entry into the museum is free, which means you can stay for any length of time.

Underground Passages

Opening times: 11:00 – 16:00 Thursday to Sunday (the last tour begins at 15:00)

Exeter’s Underground Passages were used to transport drinking water into the city during medieval times. These passages lie approximately six metres below street level and run for over 400 metres across the city centre. They were eventually discarded until they were opened again as a tourist attraction during the 20^th century.

Today, visitors can join a guided tour of this exciting web of tunnels and learn more about its purpose and history. There’s also a heritage centre to visit before your tour, containing interactive exhibits. Find out more about ticket prices here.

Exeter Quayside

Looking for fun things to do in Exeter this autumn? Exeter Quayside is one of the most idyllic places across the city, featuring beautiful architecture and a huge range of pubs and restaurants. Visit the Custom House Visitor Centre to learn more about Exeter’s historic cloth industry, where you’ll find a variety of interesting models and artefacts.

Or hire a bike and cycle along the paths beside the River Exe and canal. You can also get involved in exciting watersports, such as kayaking or paddleboarding, or spend an afternoon exploring the quayside’s independent shops.

Northernhay Gardens

Opening times: 07:00 – 21:00 daily

Enjoy an autumn stroll in Northernhay Gardens – England’s oldest open public space. Located only a few minutes’ walk from Exeter Central station, these gardens offer stunning scenery and contain a Roman wall once used as part of Exeter Castle’s defences. Rougemont Gardens are also located close by, providing an excellent space to enjoy a leisurely stroll and a warm drink.

Bill Douglas Cinema Museum

Opening times: 10:00 – 17:00 daily

Want to learn more about the history of the moving image? Head to the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum on the Streatham Campus of the University of Exeter. Here you’ll find over 1,000 objects relating to cinema, from prints and toys to letters and posters. These collections tell the story of cinema’s development over the years, from 17^th-century manuscripts to present-day Hollywood blockbusters.

This museum has something for all ages, and it’s a great place to visit as a family. Entry is completely free.

Haldon Forest Park

Opening times: 07:00 – 21:00 daily

Just a 15-minute drive from Exeter, Haldon Forest Park is a gorgeous place for a walk, made up of 3,500 acres of vast woodland. Choose from three walking trails and enjoy countryside views as you make your way around this superb park. You may even be lucky enough to spot wildlife such as sparrowhawks and roe deer.

When you need to refuel, stop for a meal at the park’s Ridge Café, serving everything from paninis and wraps to burgers and baked potatoes.

Hotels in Exeter

Our Leonardo Hotel Exeter hotel offers the perfect home away from home during a Devonshire staycation. Book a stay and enjoy a great night’s sleep in one of the hotel’s 170 spacious rooms. And start your day the right way with breakfast in the contemporary restaurant, where you can expect teas, coffees, a hot buffet and fresh fruit. Whatever you have planned in Exeter, you can rely on Leonardo Hotels for a relaxing and luxurious stay.