Things to do in Exeter

Exeter is a city well-known for its cultural and architectural heritage, having formerly ranked as second only to Bath with regards to architecture until the bombings of WWII destroyed much of the original infrastructure. Nowadays, there are still many sights to take in, with several excellent specimens still remaining. The city also features gardens and parks where locals and visitors alike enjoy relaxing. Several companies offer informative guided tours of the city, hitting all of its primary attractions.

Exeter Cathedral

The Cathedral Church of Saint Peter was founded in 1050 when the seat of the bishop moved over from Credition in search of the solid defences of the city's Roman walls. The cathedral houses a statue of the 16th century theologian and Exeter native, Richard Hooker. Informative, guided tours of the cathedral are offered between the months of April and October.

Rougement Castle

In addition to housing the ruins of Rougement Castle, the Rougement Gardens offer visitors a view of the city's old Roman wall. This was the site of a 12th century siege, and the castle ruins feature the ditches of William the Conqueror's castle. The gardens are located close to the city centre and many visitors and locals stop by for lunch or a brief respite. Every summer, a theatre troupe presents an outdoor staging of a Shakespeare play in the park.

Quayside

Reached via a short bus ride or a 10-minute walk from Exeter's city centre, the historic Quayside features a wealth of history, scenery, architecture and dining establishments to indulge in. Visitors come for scenic walks and cycling, antique shopping and boat trips on the River Exe. Events staged on the river include art exhibits, Jazz on the Quay festival and dragon-boat racing.

Northernhay Gardens

The Northernhay Gardens were once quarried by the Romans for stone to build the old city wall. Today, the garden features a portion of the standing Roman wall as well as a span of the Saxon town wall, the only one of its kind still remaining in England. Due to the garden's prime historic significance, it was already set aside for public recreation by 1612.

Guided tours

Informative, guided tours offer an interesting perspective on the city's history, allowing visitors to experience the history on foot in the hands of a local expert on Exeter's history and architecture. Free, 90-minute walking tours are available year-round, led by a Red Coat Guide. Tours begin in front of the Royal Clarence Hotel or from the Quay House Visitor Centre.

Museums

Visitors to Exeter who are interested in a more in-depth view into the city's history and cultural significance will want to pay a visit to the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, which is located on Queen Street. The museum is housed in a Victorian building and holds the city's largest art gallery.

The St Nicholas Priory is a 900-year-old building and offers outstanding architectural specimens. The priory houses a large guest hall, Tudor room, Norman kitchen and undercroft.

Modern art exhibits can be viewed at the Spaces art gallery. The exhibits include work from established and new artists alike. The Exeter Phoenix is an arts and media centre that showcases a broad spectrum of drama, music, dance, film, literature and visual arts.