- Exeter remains the only city in the United Kingdom to have a dedicated underground network of medieval vaulted passages built to bring fresh water into the city.
- The city has been a base for military operations since the Roman occupation, when it was known as Isca Dumnoniorum.
- The Exeter Cathedral contains the longest uninterrupted medieval vaulted ceiling in the world.
- During the 1942 'Baedeker Blitz' of World War II, a significant portion of the city center was destroyed, leading to post-war architecture that contrasts sharply with the medieval sections.
- Exeter is the site of the UK's first ever local radio station, BBC Radio Exeter, launched in 1967.
About Exeter
Exeter is a historic cathedral city in Devon, England, situated on the River Exe. It serves as the county town and is renowned for its subterranean medieval passages and remarkably preserved city walls. Visitors often explore the architectural significance of the Exeter Cathedral or engage with regional heritage at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery. The city balances its Roman roots with expansive green spaces like Riverside Valley Park, which provides vital recreational corridors along the river.
Highlights of Exeter
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Temples
Examine the world's longest uninterrupted medieval vaulted ceiling.
Museums
Explore extensive collections of zoology, anthropology, and local Devon history.
Parks
Visit historic warehouse buildings that now house independent galleries and cafes along the canal.
Natural attractions
Experience expansive woodland trails and mountain biking routes located in the surrounding hills.
Parks
Walk or cycle along the river paths that connect the city center to the Exe Estuary.
Venues
Catch professional touring productions at this established theatre located on the university campus.
Venues
Visit the premier venue for professional rugby union matches in the region.
Parks
Traverse these ancient valley grasslands that provide elevated views over the city landscape.
Top things to do in Exeter
The 139 highest-rated places in Exeter, ranked by travellers.
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Temples
Exeter Cathedral, officially the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter, features the longest uninterrupted medieval vaulted ce...
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Amusement parks
Crealy Theme Park & Resort is the largest family theme park in Devon, located in the Clyst St Mary area near Exeter. The...
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Places of interest
Knightshayes Court is a Victorian Gothic Revival country house designed by William Burges for the Heathcoat-Amory family...
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Natural attractions
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Historical places
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Museums
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Parks
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Historical places
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Venues
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Amusement parks
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Temples
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Parks
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Exeter on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Exeter
Late spring to early autumn, specifically May through September, as the mild climate is optimal for exploring outdoor locations like Haldon Forest Park.
2-3 days, which provides sufficient time to tour the historic center, museums, and nearby natural parkland.
The city center is highly walkable, while local bus services and the Exe Estuary Trail support cyclists and commuters; the rail network connects the city to regional destinations.
The city center offers proximity to major heritage sites, while the Quayside area provides a scenic riverside atmosphere with converted warehouse accommodations.
Mid-range; accommodation and dining prices are generally lower than in London but reflect the city's status as a popular regional hub.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 139 curated attractions in and around Exeter, ranked by traveller ratings.
Exeter Cathedral is the highest-rated place to visit in Exeter right now.
The largest category is temples, with 50 places to explore.
Travellers also explore London, North Kensington, Manchester.
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