At this time of year we start preparing to welcome new students to the city. You might be struck first by the cathedral towering over the Cathedral Green, the busy shops at Princesshay, or the first signs of autumn on our green campuses. But if you are keen to find out quickly about all the city has to offer, here are some ideas for places to explore…
Right in the centre of the high street you’ll find Gandy Street. It’s tiny, colourful, and full of quirky shops and cafés. Rumour has it J.K. Rowling got inspiration for Diagon Alley here. It’s a fun and characterful place to explore. If you wander right down to the bottom of the high street you’ll find many more independent and alternative shops on Fore Street, along with the Picturehouse cinema (which does brilliant pizza with amazing views in the bar upstairs).
Most people know about the Quay (hire bikes, canoes or kayaks from Saddles and Paddles or AS Watersports). If you wander a little further, you’ll find Riverside Valley Park and the trails that meander around the river and canal basin. If you enjoy walking and fancy a challenge, you can continue round the Exeter Green Circle: a twelve mile walk around the quieter, greener and leafier areas of the city.
If you’re feeling adventurous you can book a tour of the Underground Passages. They’re medieval water tunnels right under the city, and most students don’t even know they exist. It’s a cool (literally—it’s chilly down there!) way to learn about Exeter’s history.
For study days if you don’t want to stay on campus, Exeter Central Library is a calm oasis in the the city centre. It’s also a great way to escape your usual campus or flat routine. When you need some culture, check out the Phoenix Arts Centre for live music, indie films, and exhibitions, the Barnfield and Northcott Theatres and the Corn Exchange, which hosts everything from comedy nights to gigs.
If you want to head out for food and drink, The Old Firehouse is legendary for its giant pizzas, while The Glorious Art House on Fore Street is a welcoming, artistic space (famous for hot chocolate). For more ideas check out this post by former student Zeina Kanso.
There are lots of activity options in the city centre too. DanSci Dance Studio runs fun and welcoming adult dance classes for all abilities (including complete beginners!), across all kinds of dance styles. Or, for something a bit more unusual, you could gather some friends and test your teamwork at Locked In A Room, one of Exeter’s best escape room experiences. If you want to try indoor climbing, head to Quay Climbing Centre—home to the South West’s largest indoor climbing wall and an excellent bouldering cave.
We haven’t even touched on sporting events and activities – you can find out more about that here. If you happened to be in town on the morning of 30th August, you might have seen the New Zealand woman’s rugby team out and about!
Exeter isn’t huge, but that’s the beauty of it—you can explore on foot, stumble across little corners, and actually feel like you belong. Take your time to wander off the beaten track, and you’ll find your own favourite hidden gems.
For loads of information about things to do in Exeter, see Visit Exeter.
