Exeter, United Kingdom
Region: Devon
Geographic Coordinates: 50.725600, -3.526900
Temperature Range: -10.0°C to 30.0°C (14°F to 86°F)
Climate: Variable.
Population: 124180
Language: English
Exeter is a city in Devon, England with a population of around 130, 000 people. The city has a long and significant history dating back to Roman times and has been an important center for trade, Religion, And education. One of the most impressive attractions in Exeter is its Gothic cathedral which was built between 1114 and 1400. It’s considered one of the finest examples of medieval architecture in Europe. Visitors can take guided tours or explore the building at their own pace.
Exeter also has other historical sites such as St Nicholas Priory – an atmospheric medieval monastery that dates back to the 11th century – as well as several museums including The Royal Albert Memorial Museum which houses extensive collections from natural history to fine art. The cultural scene in Exeter is vibrant with theaters like The Northcott Theatre hosting productions ranging from Shakespearean plays to contemporary dramas. There are also music venues like The Cavern Club which was made famous by bands like The Beatles but now has branches all over Britain.
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking along Dartmoor National Park or cycling through Devon’s rolling countryside. Water sports such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are also available on the River Exe. Foodies will appreciate Exeter’s culinary offerings with traditional British pub fare alongside international cuisine available across town. Local delicacies include fresh seafood caught off Devon’s coast or regional specialties like cream teas (scones served with clotted cream and jam). Shoppers will find plenty of options from independent boutiques selling artisanal crafts to high street stores offering fashion and electronics.
Princesshay, A contemporary shopping center located in the heart of the city, Offers a wide range of shops and restaurants. Exeter is a charming city that combines its rich history with modern amenities making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore England’s southwest while experiencing culture, Outdoor adventure, Foodie delights or shopping opportunities.
- Exeter Cathedral
- Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery
- Guildhall Shopping Centre
- Quayside and the River Exe
- Rougemont Castle and Gardens
- Underground Passages of Exeter
- St Nicholas Priory
- Tuckers Hall
- The House that Moved
- Northernhay Gardens
- Education: The University of Exeter is a renowned institution that attracts students from all over the world.
- Tourism: With its historic landmarks like Exeter Cathedral, Royal Albert Memorial Museum, and natural beauty spots such as Dartmoor National Park, the city is a popular tourist destination.
- Retail: The city center boasts several shopping centers and high street stores including Princesshay Shopping Centre, Guildhall Shopping Centre, and John Lewis.
- Healthcare: The Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital is a significant employer in the region with an excellent reputation for providing quality care.
- Manufacturing: Flybe (airline), Supacat (military vehicles), Lightfoot (vehicle technology) are among some of the manufacturing companies based in the city.
- Technology: Several tech companies operate from Exeter including Crowdcube (crowdfunding platform) and Sponge UK (e-learning solutions).
- Financial Services: Lloyds Bank, NatWest, Barclays Bank have offices in Exeter making it an important financial hub for the region.
- Agriculture: The surrounding area has a strong agricultural industry with farms producing dairy products, meat products, fruits & vegetables etc., contributing to local commerce.
- Energy & Environmental Services- Good Energy Group plc has its headquarters here while environmental consultancies like ERM Group also operate from here reflecting its commitment towards renewable energy sources and sustainability practices within this sector.
- Roman Occupation: Exeter was an important Roman settlement known as Isca Dumnoniorum.
- The Siege of Exeter: During the English Civil War, Exeter was besieged by Royalist forces in 1643.
- The Great Fire of Exeter: In 1687, a fire destroyed much of the city center.
- Sir Francis Drake: The famous explorer and naval commander was born in Tavistock near Exeter in 1540.
- Richard Hooker: An influential theologian and author who lived in Exeter during the Elizabethan era.
- William Temple: A philosopher and statesman who served as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1694 to 1699 was born in nearby Santa Fe Castle near Honiton.
- John Dinham: A prominent figure during the reigns of Edward IV and Henry VII who built a number of buildings in Exeter including St John’s Hospital and St Mary Arches Church.
- Thomas Bodley: A diplomat, scholar, and founder of Oxford’s Bodleian Library was born in nearby Comb Pyne near Crediton.
- The Blitz on Exeter during World War II when much damage was done to the city centre by German bombing raids between May 1940 until May 1942.
- The Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery is one of England’s oldest public museums which opened its doors for visitors on Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee Day – May 23rd,1887.
- Exeter Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and one of the most iconic landmarks in Exeter.
- The Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery is a fascinating museum with a vast collection of art, natural history, and archaeology exhibits.
- Underground Passages are an intriguing network of medieval tunnels beneath the city that were used to transport water.
- Guildhall is a historic building dating back to the 15th century that now serves as a venue for events and exhibitions.
- RAMM Garden offers a tranquil oasis in the heart of Exeter, perfect for peaceful strolls or picnics.
- St Nicholas Priory is an ancient priory dating back to the 11th century that offers visitors a glimpse into medieval life in Exeter.
- Quay House Visitor Centre located on Exeter’s historic quayside tells the story of how trade shaped the city over time.
- Tuckers Hall, this charming building dates back to 1471 and now houses an exhibition about its history as a guildhall for cloth merchants.
- Devon Wildlife Trust’s Cricklepit Mill Nature Reserve is located just outside of Exeter where visitors can see rare birds and other wildlife up close amidst beautiful surroundings.
- The Phoenix Arts Centre hosts an array of events including theatre productions, film screenings, live music performances, art exhibitions and workshops throughout the year which are worth visiting!
- Exeter City Football Club:
- Founded in 1904
- Oldest football club in Devon
- Played in various leagues including Southern League, Football League Third Division, and currently plays in League Two
- Exeter Chiefs Rugby Club:
- Founded in 1871
- Multiple championships including Premiership Rugby title four times and European Champions Cup once
- Exeter Falcons Speedway Team:
- Operated from 1929 to 2005
- Competed in various leagues including British League, Premier League, and Conference League
- Exeter University Boat Club:
- Founded in 1948
- One of the most successful university rowing clubs in England
- Won numerous national titles over their history
- Exmouth Cricket Club:
- Located about ten miles away from Exeter city limits
- Important part of cricket culture within Devon for more than two centuries
- Exeter Festival of South West Food and Drink
- Exeter Pride
- Exeter Respect Festival
- Christmas Markets and Lights Switch-On
- Exeter Craft Festival
- The Big Screen in the Park
- RAMM Lates (Royal Albert Memorial Museum)
- Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market
- Poltimore Festival
- Vibraphonic Music Festival
- The Fat Pig is a popular gastropub that serves British cuisine.
- The Rusty Bike is a trendy restaurant that offers modern British and European dishes.
- Harry’s Restaurant is a fine dining establishment that serves seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
- The Hourglass is a cozy pub with traditional English dishes such as fish and chips, pies, and roasts.
- The Exploding Bakery is known for their artisanal breads, cakes, and coffee.
- Herbies Vegetarian Restaurant is an award-winning vegetarian restaurant offering creative meat-free dishes.
- Lloyd’s Kitchen is a contemporary cafe serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with local ingredients.
- Tea on the Green is an elegant tea room with homemade cakes, scones, sandwiches, and teas from around the world.
- Circa 1924 is a stylish brasserie that serves up classic French cuisine.
- The Conservatory at the Southgate Hotel – A great spot for afternoon tea or Sunday lunch in Exeter’s city centre.
- Exeter Quay is a popular destination for kayaking, paddleboarding, and cycling along the River Exe.
- Rougemont Gardens boasts a beautiful park with a historic castle and gardens that are perfect for picnics.
- Haldon Forest Park offers an adventure park with hiking trails, mountain biking tracks, and treetop adventures.
- Heavitree Pleasure Grounds is a small but lovely park with flower gardens, playgrounds, and tennis courts.
- St James Park is home to Exeter City Football Club and also hosts concerts and events throughout the year.
- Northernhay Gardens is the oldest public space in England with beautiful flower beds, sculptures, and walking paths.
- Riverside Valley Park is a large green space that runs along the River Exe with walking trails and picnic areas.
- Crealy Adventure Park & Resort – A fun-filled theme park located just outside of Exeter offering roller coaster rides as well as animals to see!
- Princesshay Square – A central square in the city where visitors can sit down on benches or enjoy some shopping at nearby stores
- Exeter Cathedral Green – A great spot to relax on sunny days while admiring one of England’s most iconic cathedrals!
