Travel Guide for the City of Exeter, Devon

There are many beautiful cities in the United Kingdom, but tourists tend to overlook the smaller ones in favor of London, Manchester and Bristol. If you delve just a little deeper, you will find that much beauty hides in places you may not expect. In the heart of Devon, the city of Exeter provides a mix of Roman charm and stylish modern buildings. It will make a lovely day trip on your visit to England, and here are some of the best bits!

Places to see

Exeter Cathedral

Exeter Cathedral was first built in 1114, and was one of the first cathedrals in Devon. An air raid in 1942 destroyed much of the original structure but it was re-built and stands proud as one of the top attractions in the city. Visitors can look around the cathedral Monday to Saturday, and in the summer they offer guided tours of the roof, where you will get to see stunning views across Exeter. Please note, you must book if you want to take the roof tour -- had I known this, I wouldn't have been left disappointed!

Exeter Cathedral

1 The Cloisters

Opening time: 9am -- 4.45pm Monday - Saturday

Telephone: 01392 255573

Website

The Quay

Roughly ten minutes walk from the city centre, is the Quay. This is an area that is a little tucked away and could easily be missed if you didn't know about it. Running alongside the River Exe is a row of quaint gift shops, pubs and restaurants. In the summer months, you can take short trips down the river, canoe or ride a pedalo!

Underground Passages

One of the coolest parts of Exeter is the underground passages which run under the High Street. They were built in the 14^th and 15th centuries, and are open for you to take a look around. It is important to note that the passages are quite small, so wheelchair and pushchair access is limited. I would also not advise going down there is you suffer from claustrophobia! However, if you get the chance to visit, it is quite a unique experience.

Underground Passages

Paris Street (Between shops Next and Zara)

Opening times vary by season, see website for details

Telephone: 01392 665887

Website

Places to eat

On the Waterfront

This is a restaurant of the highest quality. The building was once a warehouse, but now it is a place for fine dining and relaxation. On the Waterfront's speciality is pizza. They serve a range of incredible topping varieties, but pizza is not the only thing on the menu. There are also other pub favorites, and their desserts are absolutely amazing.

On the Waterfront

4-9 Southern Warehouse, The Quay

Opening times: 12pm -- 9pm

Telephone: 01392 210 590

Website

The Imperial

For classic English pub food, the Imperial is the place for you. It has a gorgeous modern look and the food is both affordable and tasty. The best thing about The Imperial is that there are almost always special offers on the dishes, so if you go at the right time of day, you could grab yourself a delicious bargain!

The Imperial

New North Road

Opening times: 7am -- 12am

Telephone: 01392 434050

Website

To get a full tour of the whole of Exeter, the city also provides Red Coat guided tours for free. If you want to join in, you can find more information here about the times they are available and where they will take you.

Exeter is a city full of history, but also manages to keep up to date with the modern world. If you happen to be in the area, try to make some time to visit. You won't regret it!