Location: Exeter
Top Things to do in Exeter
What to do and see in Exeter, England: The Best Things to do
Exeter (/ˈɛksɪtər/ ( listen)) is a cathedral city in Devon, England, with a population of 129,800 (mid-2016 est.). The city is on the River Exe about 37 miles (60 km) northeast of Plymouth and 70 miles (110 km) southwest of Bristol. It is the county town of Devon, and the home of Devon County Council.
Restaurants in Exeter
1. Exeter Guildhall
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 206 reviews
Reviewed By Vanessa-Essex111 - Rayleigh, United Kingdom
Finally managed to have a look around this wonderful historic Building Absolutely stunning inside a birthday treat from my friend well worth a vist
2. Underground Passages
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 613 reviews
In light of the advice from the Government about COVID-19 the Underground Passages are closed to the public until further notice. Dating from 14th century, these medieval passages under Exeter High Street are a unique ancient monument: no similar system of passages can be explored by the public elsewhere in Britain. The Passages have long exercised a fascination over local people, with stories of wars and sieges, plague and pestilence! Their purpose was simple: to bring clean drinking water from natural springs in fields lying outside the walled city, through lead pipes into the heart of the city. The pipes sometimes sprang leaks and repairs to buried pipes could only be carried out by digging them up as we do today. To avoid this disruption the passages were vaulted and it is down some of these vaulted passageways that visitors are guided.The Passages are dark and narrow with a fascinating history. Visitors can experience interactive and educational exhibits in the Underground Passages Heritage Centre and watch a short video presentation before their guided tour.
Reviewed By JakeCox
Top of our list of things to do (along with the brilliant Royal Albert Museum - see other review) were the famed underground passages of Exeter's interesting past. We booked out tickets for the next tour, beginning in about 45 minutes' time, browsed a few nearby shops and then made our way back and downstairs ready for the tour to begin. In the room downstairs there is plenty to keep you occupied and interested as you wait for everyone in the tour group to gather. Next you go through to a room where there are lockers for your belongings and are shown a short video explaining the history of the tunnels as well as a brief introduction from the tour guide. Kitted up with hard hats you begin the journey through the passages of varying height and width, occasionally pausing as the guide gives very informative pointers on the history surrounding the area you're currently in. As a man exceeding 6 foot in height I found myself ducking a lot and being thankful for the hard hat but this is to be expected and didn't infringe upon my enjoyment at all. The stops are always timed for areas where the ceiling is of comfortable height so don't worry about being stuck doubled over for any significant length of time. You're also able to leave the tour at any point (provided you notify the guide of course) if you become claustrophobic so if that's an initial concern then see how you go at least. Later on in the tour you're given the choice of two routes. One path leads you back through a comfortable height tunnel, the other through a very low tunnel. Needless to say I chose the former. If you're below 6 feet tall and have no back or knee issues then you'll be fine - it's only a short route. If in doubt though, take the comfortable route and wait for the others to emerge; some muddy-handed if they had to steady themselves through the low tunnel! Great fun and our tour guide Alex was excellent. Defninitely recommend this.
3. Royal Albert Memorial Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,430 reviews
Exeter's world-class museum has stunning displays and galleries, fabulous exhibitions and modern amenities. The displays reveal Devon and Exeter's rich history and global connections. Exotic animals, birds and insects delight children and the world cultures galleries display stunning items from all over the world. The shop offers hand-picked gifts, unique craft items, books and affordable souvenirs for children. The cafe serves delicious homemade food. Opening times: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm. Closed Mondays and bank holidays. Free Admission. From time to time galleries may be closed for special events; please check before travelling.
Reviewed By andylucky905 - Newquay, United Kingdom
Lots to see of interest ranging from Egyptian tomb to large stuffed animals and excellent value for just price of donation.
4. Exeter Quay
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,529 reviews
Reviewed By exploresleeptravel - Exeter, United Kingdom
Exeter Quay has to be one of the most beautiful places in Exeter. So many lovely restaurants, quirky gift shops and a lovely walk along the river for anyone visiting from afar you MUST take a walk down here.
5. Exeter Racecourse
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 93 reviews
Reviewed By Passp0rtAlwaysReady - Exeter, United Kingdom
I attended a business conference at the Exeter Racecourse first week in December. Easy to find, only 30 seconds from the A38. Good amount of free parking on site close to the level main entrance. Good clean and plentiful toilets. Many conference rooms and finger buffet lunch. No vegetarian or gluten free options that I could see. Staff seemed ok, but sometimes difficult find anyone!
6. Exeter Castle
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 92 reviews
Exeter's Premier Wedding & Conference Venue. One of Devon's most spectacular wedding venues situated in the heart of Exeter City Centre. Exeter Castle is licensed for both marriages & civil partnerships making your special day truly magical. With architecture dating back to 1068, Exeter Castle provides an outstanding setting for anyone's special day. This newly renovated historical gem is a venue that no guest will ever forget. Admire the views from The Terrace Rooms, dine in The Ballroom, or prepare in the Bridal Rooms. Exeter Castle is the most unique and luxurious event space that Exeter has to offer. Exeter Castle is also the ideal City Centre location providing convenient spacious rooms for your meeting or conference event. Our Events Manager will guide you through the options prior to your event and will explain how Exeter Castle can support you in providing a professional and enjoyable day. We work with many suppliers to ensure you receive the best facilities and equipment available so that your guests leave the venue with fond memories of their time at Exeter Castle.
Reviewed By ShirlyChesterfield - Exeter, United Kingdom
Had a nice walk around the castle we fed some seagulls and Pigeons and a Canadian goose Very nice place
7. Exeter Northcott Theatre
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 156 reviews
Reviewed By 570keithb - Totton, United Kingdom
We took the option of the pre-show meal here in March 2020. The 3-course menu was different and very good, served by friendly staff. Our table looked over the University Campus via a floor to ceiling glass window. When we'd finished the meal (and excellent wine) we made our way through to the auditorium. The Northcott is different to other theatres in that the front row of seats are level with the stage and there's no orchestra pit. The rake's great with no restricted views whatsoever. We enjoyed the show (The Magic of Mowtown) immensely and would recommend the Northcott highly. A great place which is well-run, welcoming and despite what some have said about it, comfortable. Leg-room really isn't a problem. I'm 6'4" so know all about legroom... We walked from our hotel by Central Station (about 20 mins), but there's parking and a bus service. Highly recommended.
8. Northernhay Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 129 reviews
Reviewed By j0andphilip - Braunton, United Kingdom
Beautiful plants to see and statues. Sit and relax in this quiet park. Quite steep hill from bottom but its worth it.
9. Sandy Park Stadium
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 140 reviews
Sandy Park is Exeter's award-winning Conference, Banqueting and Events Centre and home to Devon's Aviva Premiership rugby team, the Exeter Chiefs.
Reviewed By Cha909 - Plymouth, United Kingdom
The ticket prices for Chief's' games have become so expensive, we only visit when there are special deals. We bought seats for the recent England Women's match against France and had a thoroughly great experience. The seats in the stand were only £15 and the ground was full. Good views, comfortable seating and plenty of food and drink outlets and loos. The only downside was the eyewatering price of the beer, but at least we got a 'free' plastic mug to take home.
10. The House that Moved
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 32 reviews
Reviewed By Lucylemonpip - Exeter, United Kingdom
A beautiful house, which currently is a bridal shop. The property is a Grade II listed building, and was due to be demolished to make way for a new road. The house was thought to date from about 1430 and is one of the oldest surviving houses in Exeter. It was felt to be in a poor state of repair and didn't seem that important a loss. However, luckily, with pressure from archaeologists, it was listed just in time, as an important building of architectural and historic significance, and the demolition was halted. Exeter City Council, with help from the government decided to spend £10,000 to have the house moved out of the way of the new road and so it was painstakingly moved to its current location. Just opposite, there is a lovely cobbled lane and you can almost see the people from days of old, walking up and down it. Exeter truly has a rich history.
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