Things To Do
in Exeter
Exeter is a historic city located in Devon, South West England. It is known for its stunning mix of medieval and Georgian architecture, including the iconic Exeter Cathedral. The city is home to a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for both visitors and locals.
With easy access to the stunning Devon countryside and coastline, Exeter offers a perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2.50 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Exeter Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Make sure to take in the intricate details of its facade and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere inside.
Stroll along the historic quayside and explore the variety of shops and cafes. You can also take a riverboat cruise for a different perspective of the city.
Dine at one of the local restaurants offering delicious regional cuisine. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk through the well-lit city centre.
Visit the Royal Albert Memorial Museum to learn about Exeter's history and diverse collections. Don't miss the chance to see the museum's fine art and natural history exhibits.
Head to the nearby St. Nicholas Priory, a medieval building with lots of historical significance. Explore the tranquil gardens and enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café.
Catch a live performance at the Exeter Northcott Theatre. The evening would be perfect for enjoying local talent and vibrant productions.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage, including Roman ruins and medieval architecture.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, with easy access to the Devon countryside and coastline.
- A vibrant community with a variety of shops, restaurants, and local markets.
- Excellent educational institutions, including the University of Exeter.
- A relatively low cost of living compared to larger UK cities like London.
- Limited public transportation options compared to bigger cities.
- Higher frequency of rain and cloudy weather.
- Job opportunities may be fewer in certain sectors compared to larger urban areas.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.
- Cultural and entertainment options may be less diverse than in larger cities.
Best Activities in Exeter
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Exeter Quay, taking in the scenic views of the river and historic warehouses. You can also rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the waterways.
Embark on hiking or mountain biking trails through Haldon Forest Park, offering a range of routes for all ability levels. The park also features a Go Ape high ropes course for adventurous visitors.
Venture to Dartmoor National Park for a day of outdoor exploration amidst rugged moorlands, ancient forests, and iconic tors. Hiking, horse riding, and wildlife spotting are popular activities here.
Tours
Uncover the best of Exeter with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Exeter
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic area with beautiful views of the water and buildings, perfect for photography
Offers stunning architecture and panoramic views of the city from the top of the tower
A peaceful green space with scenic gardens, perfect for capturing nature and city views
Food in Exeter
Exeter Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential English tradition, comprising scones served with clotted cream and jam, and is best experienced at local tea rooms such as The Hidden Treasure Tea Room.
Must-Try!
Exeter is situated amidst picturesque orchards renowned for producing excellent ciders. Sample a variety of local ciders at The Beer Cellar or explore the nearby cider farms for an authentic experience.
Exeter is known for its high-quality beef and lamb, often featured in traditional English roast dinners. Enjoy dishes prepared with locally reared meat at The Rusty Bike or The Lamb Inn.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Exeter better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held every Thursday, the market features an array of global street food vendors offering tantalizing options like Greek souvlaki, Indian curries, and wood-fired pizzas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to greet people with a handshake or a polite verbal greeting, such as 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon'. Using 'please' and 'thank you' is also important in social interactions.
In Exeter, people generally respect personal space and maintain a reasonable distance when conversing. It's important to be mindful of personal boundaries in social interactions.
Being punctual is highly valued in Exeter. Whether for social gatherings or business meetings, arriving on time is considered respectful and courteous.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Exeter with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Exeter
Ensure a smooth experience
In Exeter, United Kingdom, tipping in restaurants is not mandatory and is typically around 10-15% of the total bill if the service has been exceptional. Some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, in which case an additional tip is not necessary. Tipping in other service industries, such as hotels and taxis, is also discretionary.
In Exeter, United Kingdom, payment is commonly made using credit or debit cards, although cash is also widely accepted. Contactless payment methods are increasingly popular. It is important to note that some smaller establishments may not accept credit cards, so it's advisable to have cash on hand as well.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Exeter.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Exeter, with milder temperatures and blooming flowers. It's a perfect season for exploring the city and enjoying the beautiful landscapes.
Summer is peak tourist season in Exeter, with long daylight hours and various outdoor events and festivals. The city is bustling with activity and there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
Autumn brings beautiful foliage and a change in scenery. The temperatures start to cool down, and the city becomes less crowded, making it a great time for a more relaxed visit.
Winter in Exeter is chilly, but the city is beautifully decorated for the holidays. There are Christmas markets and events, and it's a cozy time to explore the city's historic charm.
Exeter at Night
Hiking in Exeter
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A 10-mile circular route around Exeter, which takes you through parks, riversides, and scenic views.
A vast forest with a range of trails for all abilities, offering beautiful views and diverse wildlife.
An area of open heathland with stunning views, providing a mix of walking and biking trails.
A bit further from Exeter, Dartmoor offers rugged terrain, scenic landscapes, and ancient stone circles, ideal for serious hikers.
A picturesque coastal walk with stunning views over the English Channel, featuring cliffs and sandy beaches.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Exeter through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Exeter by plane.
Located approximately 80 miles northwest of Exeter, Bristol Airport is the nearest major international airport and serves a wide range of destinations across Europe and beyond.
Exeter Airport is located just 8 miles east of Exeter itself and while smaller, it offers flights to several European destinations and is the main airport for the city.
Situated about 100 miles west of Exeter, Cardiff Airport serves as an international airport for Wales, providing flights to various locations in Europe.
Approximately 190 miles east of Exeter, London Heathrow is one of the largest and busiest international airports in the world, connecting to numerous global destinations.
Located around 180 miles east of Exeter, London Gatwick is another major international airport, with extensive flight options to various international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Exeter, primarily consisting of British and Irish individuals.
Includes individuals of Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Chinese, and other Asian origins.
Comprises individuals of African, Caribbean, and other Black heritage.
Individuals from mixed ethnic backgrounds, often having parents from different ethnic groups.
Includes individuals from various ethnic backgrounds not classified in the main categories.
The Soul of Exeter
Discover the essence of Exeter through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is extremely popular in Exeter, particularly with the presence of Exeter City FC, which competes in the English Football League.
Rugby Union has a strong following in Exeter, largely due to the success of the Exeter Chiefs in the Premiership and European competitions.
Cricket is widely played and watched in Exeter, with local clubs and the Exeter & District Cricket League supporting the sport at various levels.
Athletics enjoys popularity in Exeter, supported by various clubs and events, including those held at the Exeter Arena.
Rowing is practiced on the River Exe, with local clubs providing opportunities for both competition and recreational rowing.
Cycling is a popular activity in Exeter, with numerous cycling routes and events throughout the region.
Tennis is a popular sport in Exeter, with many local clubs and facilities available for both casual and competitive play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Exeter.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Exeter boasts numerous eateries that cater specifically to vegetarians and vegans, such as The Plant Cafe and Herbies Vegetarian Restaurant, offering diverse and satisfying plant-based menus.
Restaurants like The Salty Pigeon and Tea on the Green offer dedicated gluten-free menus, ensuring those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity can partake in Exeter's culinary delights without worry.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Exeter with these cultural adventures.