How to have a great day out in Exeter
Often overlooked in favour of Devon’s other city, Plymouth, Exeter is worth visiting for its history and charm.
We’d driven past it on several occasions whilst leaving or arriving back in the South West, (it’s where you get onto the M5) but never thought to actually stop and explore the city. Until one autumn weekend when we figured it was finally time to find out what Exeter had to offer.
Exeter was established by the Romans, and became a religious centre in the Middle Ages, when it’s famous Cathedral was first built. There are remnants of both time periods – as well as Tudor – to be found in the architecture. And if you have no interest in history then Exeter is still a great place for shopping and restaurant hopping!
Things to do in Exeter
- Old Exe Bridge – built in 1190, it is the oldest surviving Bridge of it’s size in England and the oldest bridge in Britain with a chapel still on it. The river no longer runs under the bridge but you can walk over it to try and imagine what it would have been like 800 years ago. Back then it was covered in shops and houses and would have been a centre for trade.
- The House that Moved – nearby to the bridge is The House that Moved – a true case of ‘it does what it says on the tin’. Thought to date back to about 1430, this house was initially located across town. However when it was set to be demolished to make way for a new road in 1961, archaeologists put enough pressure on the council to ensure that the house was lifted up and moved to a new location! Now beautifully restored, it sits proudly next to St Mary’s Steps church and a few other Tudor buildings, which make this little corner feel like stepping back in time.
- Cathedral Close – now something for the Potter fans out there! J.K Rowling went to Exeter University and apparently a door on Cathedral Close inspired the Room of Requirement. The street, found at the back of the Cathedral, is a pretty one to stroll down and once you come across it, there is no mistaking which door I’m talking about! There was also rumours that Gandy Street was the inspiration for Diagon Alley, but this one has been denied by Rowling herself.
- Royal Albert Museum and Art Gallery – I’m a sucker for a good museum (basically if it has dinosaurs I’m there) and the Royal Albert is no exception. A wonderful collection of artefacts from across the world housed in a stunning building, this is a great rainy day activity to do with or without kids. Entrance is free.
Paid attractions (which are definitely worth it!)
- Underground passages. Now that you’ve explored enough on the surface, why not go below ground to see subterranean Exeter? Built in medieval times to bring clean drinking water to the city, these underground vaulted tunnels are now a tourist attraction. And they’re the only one of its kind in the UK. Once inside you will don a hard hat and join your knowledgeable guide on a tour of these passages. Please note the passages may not be suitable for people with claustrophobia. Prepurchase tickets here. They cost £9pp at time of writing.
- Exeter Cathedral – no Exeter day out would be complete without a visit to the beautiful Exeter Cathedral. It’s home to the longest uninterrupted medieval stone vaulted ceiling in the world. Also, an astronomical clock from the 1400s, and some breathtaking stained glass windows. It is truly an impressive piece of architecture. Admission is chargeable but if you choose to gift aid, this includes a 12 month unlimited pass, so you can return as many times as you like! There are also guided tours and audio tours available.
Where to eat and drink in Exeter
As in most cities there are almost unlimited options for food and drink here in Exeter. The city has plenty of popular chains such as Wagamamas, Pieminister, and Boston Tea Party. But there are also some terrific pubs and cafes which will make foodies very happy indeed.
Sacred Grounds – a vegan cafe with incredible brunch options and delicious coffee. The vegan ‘egg’ is incredible, and so realistic!
Board – for food and drink with a difference head to Board. Here you can rent different board games whilst enjoying comfort food like burgers and milkshakes (or just a few rum and cokes like we did!) The staff are super friendly and can explain the rules if you are stuck. They can also make recommendations based on group size, abilities and favourite genres. My favourite game of all time is Ticket to Ride, so make sure you try your hand at that when you visit!
How on Earth Deli – for an easy and delicious grab-and-go option try this vegan sandwich shop. The menu changes often but you really can’t go wrong with any sarnie. Keep an eye on their socials for the latest offerings and be quick – they often sell out fast!
The Old Firehouse. For an excellent selection of beers and ales, and massive delicious pizzas (vegan options available), head to the Old Firehouse. This dark wood pub has an ‘olde worlde’ vibe, which makes you feel like you’ve stepped inside a medieval drinking den. We could have easily spent all day here.
Quayside pubs and bars. Once the sun starts to set I recommend heading down to the quay, where you’ll find plenty of pubs to choose from, all with great views. Our favourites are The Prospect Inn, On the Waterfront and Topsham Brewery and Taproom.
I hope this post inspires you to visit Exeter. Or have you visited already and feel like the list is missing something? Let me know below! And if you want more Devon inspo visit my UK page here. x
