Exeter  

Exeter is situated in east Devon around five miles from the coast however it was once an important port on England's south coast. This thriving city lies on the River Exe which runs through the city and joins the coast at Exmouth. Exeter is a vibrant, modern city that now styles itself as the regional capital of the Westcountry - however its roots go back a long time, to Roman times and beyond. 

For details of Exeter Hotels and Holidays Guest Houses and Cottages  and Attraction.  Go to Exeter Hotels Guest Houses and Cottages

Situated on a small hill on a bend in the River Exe, the site of the modern day city has been occupied for over two thousand years. The Romans built a permanent settlement here around 50 AD to form the administrative centre of the region. The shape of the modern city is derived from this settlement and there are still significant parts of the old roman wall on display around the city. 

A thousand years later, in 1068, the walls protected the city from the invading Normans led by William the Conqueror. The city resisted the attackers for 18 days until the walls were breached and the city surrendered. The Normans then constructed Rougemont Castle from which to administer the region. The remaining part of this development now serve as the Court buildings for Exeter.

The Normans were also responsible for building Exeter's magnificent cathedral- St Peters. Built on the site of an existing church, St Peters was constructed between 1112 and 1133. The design was unusual for that time and is based on twin transept towers which support the north and south walls. The entrance is via the Great West Front which is decorated with many sculptures which were originally painted in bright colours. Inside there are many examples of medieval craftsmanship with the highlight being the stained glass of the East Window.

Exeter has a long maritime history stretching back to Roman times. When the rivers of Britain were the main highways Exeter became a port with ships travelling up the river from Exmouth to offload produce in the city. The results of this trade can be seen at the quay area of the city where there is the Customs House and several old warehouses to be seen, mostly now converted to houses, shops and cafes. Sir Walter Raleigh who was born near Exmouth often frequented the city and Sir Francis Drake was a patron of The Ship Inn and Mols Coffee House both in Cathedral Close.

Exeter also has a fine University, set in landscaped grounds over looking the city. The city has around 12,000 students at various institutions and as a result the bars and cafes and bookshops do a good trade and there is an energetic nightlife.

Things to see in Exeter 

Exeter Cathedral - 12th century Cathedral and Cathedral yard with shops, pubs and cafes.

Exeter Quay - The old port area of the city now restored with pubs, cafes and shops. Also available are canoes, paddle boats and bikes to hire.

Exeter Underground Passages - Passages under the High Street that date from 14th century

Crealy Adventure Park - Amusements and adventure rides just outside Exeter.

Nearby and well worth a visit.

Powderham Castle - follow the road towards Dawlish. 

A la Ronde - a National Trust property - follow the road to Exmouth. 

For more information about visiting Exeter  see - Exeter City Tourism

< Exmouth Guide                                                                                                  Dawlish Guide >

Other sections of the guide you might also enjoy - see below.

Activities

Whether your idea of an ideal activity is sunbathing or you prefer something more strenuous, the  chances are that you will be able to pursue this at the coast. There is a wide selection of activities that can be found on our coastline - these range from a gentle stroll to the next bay, to swimming and snorkelling, to more energetic activities such as sailing, surfing, windsurfing and kite sailing. See Activities section.

Attractions - see listings pages

A huge selection of attractions are available within the coastal area and this section will have details of many of them. From piers and harbours to fun fairs and roller coasters, the listings will have details of what's available in your chosen area. For details of attractions look in the resort pages. 

 The National Lobster Hatchery - Padstow

Pubs, restaurants and shopping guide

The listings section will also have details of pubs, restaurants, nightclubs and shops available in the locality. Restaurants and shops coming soon.....

                                                                                                                                            The Beach Pub - Exmouth

Features

We will bring you feature  articles  about the coastline and  news items about life in the coastal area. contributions to this section are welcome.

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