Exeter is an ideal base from which to explore the stunning Devon coast and countryside.Out and about
Exeter is a vibrant city full of exciting things to see and do. Below is just a small selection of what is available in and around Exeter.
Exeter Shopping: Princesshay
What's available in the Princesshay shopping centre.
Exeter Shopping: Guildhall
What's available in the Guildhall shopping centre.
Exeter Shopping: Harlequins
What's available in the Harlequins shopping centre.
Exeter Attractions
A list of attractions from the Heart of Devon site.
Royal Albert Memorial Museum
The museum has a busy programme of exhibitions, displays, talks and creative activities.
Exeter's Underground Passages
Medieval passageways that stretch under the city's streets.
Exeter Cathedral
We have a beautiful cathedral right in the city centre.
Exeter Racecourse
If horseracing is your thing - we have our own course.
Exeter City Football Club
We have our own football club too.
Exeter Airport
We even have our own airport if you are looking for a quick getaway.
Exploring Devon
Devon and the surrounding counties are some of the most beautiful in the country and offer stunning scenery and interesting attractions for all types of visitors. Below are just a few of the many areas we recommend to explore.
Powderham Castle
Set in a picturesque deer park beside the river Exe. Guided tours are available as well as a deer park safari. There are extensive grounds and gardens to explore as well as a plant centre, tearoom and food hall. Stay with us and receive a free tea or coffee on arrival.
20 minute drive
Killerton House
Stylish family home set in wonderful gardens and parkland. Costume museum, shop, plant centre, tea room.
20 minute drive
Knightshayes Court
Victorian Gothic house with a richly decorated interior, vast gardens and rare specimens of trees and plants.
35 minute drive
Castle Drogo
Historic castle owned by the National Trust set in beautiful grounds with walks, plant sales, tearoom, shop and restaurant.
35 minute drive
Escot
1,100 acres of grounds including gardens, woodland and wildlife. Also has mazes and puzzles set around the grounds, restaurant and plenty of parking.
25 minute drive
RHS Garden Rosemoor
Formal and informal gardens offering something to see in all seasons.
1 hour drive
Morwellham Quay
Historic mining port and living museum situated along the Tamar Valley.
1 hour drive
Paignton Zoo
Home to thousands of animals and plants from all parts of the world.
40 minute drive
Stuart Line Cruises
Offer a wide variety of cruises along the Jurassic Coast and up the river Exe.
25 minute drive
Dartmouth Steam Railway and Riverboat Company
Steam trains run from Paignton along the stunning South Devon coast and down the Dart valley. A circular trip may also be made by cruising up the river to Totnes and catching a bus back to Paignton.
45 minute drive
River Dart Country Park
Set in 90 acres with lakes, parklands and woods, with a pirate ship and adventure playgrounds.
45 minute drive
Haldon Forest Park
Whether you want a quiet gentle stroll or an exhilarating mountain biking experience, there's something for you at Haldon Forest Park. 3,500 acres of woodland just fifteen minutes from Exeter. Free entry. Parking charges apply.
20 minute drive
Dartmoor National Park
Dartmoor was designated a National Park in 1951 and is a beautiful place to visit any time of year, with 368 square miles of rugged moorland with stunning scenery featuring deep gorges, granite tors, ancient woodlands, rushing streams and secluded villages.
25 minute drive
Exmoor National Park
Exmoor National Park is situated on the North Coast of Devon and Somerset, and is a breathtaking place to visit, whether on foot, in a car or on a bicycle. There are many marked footpaths and tracks across the heather-clad moor, where the Exmoor ponies roam.
1 hour drive
Walking in Devon
Devon is an excellent area for walking, offering a wide variety of countryside and coastal walks as well as historical tours of Exeter. The University is situated very close to St David's railway station and the town centre, with easy access to all areas of Devon. We offer great value accommodation which is available during the spring and summer vacation. Bed and breakfast prices start from £31.95 per night with discounts available for online bookings.
Dartmoor is a 20 minute drive and is crossed by many miles of footpaths and tracks, making it an excellent area to walk, cycle or pony trek. The magnificent scenery is enhanced by a wealth of history on the moors from the industrial mining and the remains of the granite railway around Haytor to legend and folklore, including Widecombe-in-the-Moor of Uncle Tom Cobley fame.
If you prefer a walk by the sea, the Jurassic Coast is a 30 minute drive away. The Jurassic Coast forms part of the South West Coast Path has been awarded World Heritage Status in recognition of its unique landscape. It covers 95 miles of stunning coastline from East Devon to Dorset.
Further afield are Exmoor and the spectacular coast line of North Devon harbouring many of Devon's most picturesque villages with added opportunities for fun and adventure. Wimbleball Lake (TA22 9NW) offers you the chance to try your hand at sailing, canoeing, windsurfing or simply to take a stroll around the lake and then enjoy a snack in the tea room afterwards.
Walking routes
Walking equipment shops
Taunton Leisure, Blacks & Millets are all with in a 15 minute walk from the University.
Cycling in Devon
Devon offers a fantastic range of trails on and off road on which to explore the beautiful county. Whether you want a leisurely ride along the river or prefer the off road challenges at Haldon Forest Park, there are trails for all ages and abilities. Bikes are available for hire in Exeter and at Haldon Forest Park. We are also convenient for Dartmoor and the Jurassic Coast.
The University is situated close to St. David's railway station and the town centre, and we offer great value accommodation, which is available during the spring and summer vacation. Bed and breakfast prices start from £31.95 per night with discounts available for online bookings.
