Exeter is a place rich in history, with plenty to explore. This small city dates back to Roman times, and today it is regarded as one of the best places to live in the United Kingdom. Exeter is full of character and charm, boasting an idyllic cathedral, a beautiful quayside, and a fascinating Roman wall.
Are you interested in visiting Exeter? Read on to explore our ultimate guide complete with everything you need to know.
Some of the best attractions in Exeter include:
Exeter started as a Roman town. After arriving in the Southwest of England in approximately 50 AD, the Romans moulded Exeter into an administrative area. However, it was not a particularly prosperous location under Roman rule. During the 4th century, Roman civilisation began to dwindle.
In 1068, Exeter became the centre of a rebellion that saw its townspeople submitting to the rule of William the Conqueror. During the Second World War, the city suffered a disastrous air raid during which much of the town centre and at least six churches were destroyed or severely damaged. The city was then rebuilt in the 1950s. Today, Exeter is a city with much to offer, with a population of 127,000 people.
Exeter Cathedral Church of St Peter is one of the most outstanding examples of gothic architecture throughout England. The construction of this magnificent building began in 1114. It was then remodelled into its current gothic style over a century from 1270. Today, visitors can step foot inside the cathedral to explore its many points of interest.
View the impressive Bishop’s Throne measuring 18 metres tall, as well as the vaulted ceiling, which is the longest of its kind in the world. Tickets are £7.50 for adults, while children under 18 years go free.
The city’s Quayside is an area brimming with an illustrious history, bustling pubs, and awe-inspiring architecture. Exeter Quayside also plays host to important annual events including live music concerts, popular with visitors and locals alike. There’s something for everyone here, whether you fancy a quick browse of the antique shops or a boat ride across the water.
Pay a visit to the Custom House Visitor Centre to learn more about the history of the quay. Constructed in 1680 at the peak of Exeter’s woollen cloth industry, the Custom House is now an interesting centre for visitors. Here you can view illustrations, artefacts and live displays which highlight the development of the Quayside.
For a truly unique experience, take a trip through Exeter’s Underground Passages. The Passages are a web of medieval tunnels once used to supply the city with water. These tunnels have long since been associated with stories of plague and war by the locals.
Visitors can join a guided tour to uncover the history of the fascinating Passages for themselves. Before embarking on a tour, make sure to spend some time at the heritage centre to view exciting interactive exhibits. Tickets for the Underground Passages are £7.00 for adults and £4.50 for children.
The Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery features the largest museum and art gallery in Exeter. Here, visitors can view stunning displays which detail the city’s exciting history and global connections. The venue is made up of 16 galleries designed to take visitors on a journey of discovery from many centuries ago until today. Displays include glassware and local history and archaeology.
The museum and art gallery are easily accessible by car, bus or rail, and the building features full wheelchair access. Visitors can stop for a bite to eat at the family-friendly café and browse fantastic craft items at The Shop. Entry is free for both adults and children.
Fancy a spot of shopping during your visit? Head to Guildhall Shopping Centre. This unique venue is Exeter’s only undercover shopping mall, consisting of classic shops including Primark, Sainsbury’s and WHSmith. Interestingly, however, the shopping centre is also home to a 12th-century church – a Grade II English Heritage building.
While away the hours with an afternoon of shopping before paying a visit to St Pancras Church, located at the end of the Charles Fowler Queen Street Façade. If you fancy something to eat, Queen Street Dining offers eight leading restaurants to choose from.
Explore all the best parts of Exeter with a Red Coat Guided Tour. These tours are free for both adults and children and last around 90 minutes, taking you on an excursion of the city’s highlights.
Tours include Cathedral to Quay, Ghosts & Legends, Medieval Exeter and Oddities & Curiosities. Discover why Exeter is regarded as one of the most haunted cities in England, or learn about how the city grew prosperous thanks to its woollen cloth trade. The walking tours depart from the Hooker Statue on Cathedral Green and must be booked in advance.
Check the website to browse up-to-date news regarding seasonal tours.
Looking to book a hotel stay in Exeter? Our Leonardo Hotel Exeter hotel offers the perfect space to relax and unwind at the end of a busy day. This spacious hotel is located at the heart of the city, only a short journey from many local attractions. With an all-day Costa coffee bar and a seasonal restaurant, Leonardo Hotel Exeter lets you experience a slice of luxury during your city break.
You can also read our Exeter Travel Guide to ensure you discover all the exciting things to do and see in this city.
