Exeter

Located in the heart of Devon and known as the county’s capital, Exeter is a great compromise for those who can’t choose between a countryside stay, a waterfront break or a city escape.

Surrounded by miles of countryside and close to the Jurassic Coast, Exeter is a small city that packs a big punch.

What you need to know

  • Easily accessible by road and rail (there are two mainline stations in the city)
  • A UNESCO city of Literature
  • Home to thousands of years worth of history

Things to do in Exeter

It might be a small city, but you’ll never run out of things to do in Exeter.

Top things to do in Exeter:

  • Visit the historic quayside
  • Head under the city and explore the Underground Passages
  • Uncover thousands of years of history with Exeter Cathedral
  • Indulge in some retail therapy

Exeter is a cultural hub that is well known for its arts scene, live music performances and theatre shows at its variety of independent venues.

Visit Exeter Quayside

If you’re spending time in Exeter, don’t miss out on visiting the quayside. Exeter quay is a great place to find out more about the city’s maritime history, enjoy some paddleboarding or dine al fresco.

Just ten minutes from the city centre, it’s easy to reach on foot or by hopping on a bus from the High Street.  

Explore more Exeter

Exeter the UNESCO City of Literature

Exeter became a UNESCO City of Literature in 2019 and is now one of 66 cities internationally to be given the honour. Exeter’s addition to the list shouldn’t be a surprise – it has been making books and popularising reading since the 13th century!

The founder of the Penguin publishing imprint was inspired to create the company after realising he had nothing to read while waiting for a train. He came up with the idea of a book vending machine, which is why there is a Penguin vending machine at Exeter St David’s station, providing reading options for travellers.

Other literary connections:

  • JK Rowling attended the University of Exeter
  • Charles Dickens lived in the city while working as a reporter, he even started some of his famous novels and had a cottage nearby for his parents to live in.
  • You can find Shakespeare’s second folio and some of the oldest books in the UK at Exeter Cathedral

Exeter highlights

Parking in Exeter

You can find car parking across Exeter using the map below, alternatively, there is a Park and Ride service operated by StageCoach which provides a great, sustainable way to explore the city. 

There are three Park & Ride sites: 

Honiton Road, located just off Moor Lane roundabout, near junction 29 of the M5 (postcode EX2 7NL). This site is served by bus services 4 and 4A to and from the city centre. This is the best option if you are arriving via the M5 or A30. 

 

‎Sowton, located on Sidmouth Road, near Junction 30 of the M5 (postcode EX2 5GL).This site is served by the GREEN bus service to and from the city centre. This is the best option if you are arriving via the A3052 or A376, 

Matford, located on Matford Park Road, near The Devon Hotel on the A379 (postcode EX2 8FD). This site is served by the GREEN bus service to and from the City Centre. This is the best option if you are arriving via the A38, A380 or A379. 

Please see the Stagecoach website for fares and time tables. 

Frequently Asked Questions? 

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