Exeter is the county city of Devon and the historic capital of the South West — a lively, compact city with a remarkable medieval heritage, a thriving university, an excellent retail centre and some of the best access to countryside and coastline of any city in England. With a population of 130,428, Exeter has grown rapidly in recent decades into one of the most desirable and liveable medium-sized cities in the country.
Exeter's history stretches back to the Roman settlement of Isca Dumnoniorum, founded around 55AD, and significant stretches of the original Roman wall still stand. The city's defining landmark is Exeter Cathedral, consecrated in 1133 and rebuilt in the Gothic style between 1270 and 1370 — its twin Norman towers and the longest uninterrupted Gothic vault in the world make it one of the finest medieval buildings in England. The Royal Albert Memorial Museum is Devon's largest museum, with outstanding world culture, natural history and fine art collections. Free entry.
Exeter is home to the University of Exeter, a Russell Group university ranked consistently among the UK's top 15, which brings a significant student population and a vibrant cultural scene to the city. The city's independent quarter — the West Quarter — is packed with independent shops, cafés, restaurants and galleries in beautifully restored historic buildings. The Quayside, along the River Exe, has been regenerated into a lively area of restaurants, bars and independent shops.
Exeter's location is outstanding for those who love the outdoors — Dartmoor National Park begins just 8 miles away, the Jurassic Coast is 20 miles south, and the beaches of the English Riviera are within 30 minutes' drive. House prices average £295,000 — very affordable for a city of this quality, particularly given the direct rail connection to London Paddington in just over 2 hours.
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Who is Exeter Good For?
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VisitBritain- Exeter CathedralOne of England's finest medieval buildings, featuring the longest uninterrupted Gothic vault in the world. Twin Norman towers, magnificent west front sculptures and an extraordinary medieval clock.
- Exeter's Underground PassagesA unique network of medieval underground passages built in the 14th century to carry fresh water into the city. Guided tours through the tunnels are one of Exeter's most unusual experiences.
- Royal Albert Memorial MuseumDevon's largest museum, recently redeveloped at a cost of £24m. Outstanding collections including a 15-tonne meteorite, Egyptian mummies, world cultures and Devon natural history. Free entry.
- Exeter QuaysideThe historic quay along the River Exe has been transformed into a vibrant area of independent restaurants, bars, antique shops and kayak hire. Beautiful setting with the old warehouses and canal basin.
- Dartmoor National ParkJust 8 miles from Exeter, Dartmoor is one of England's wildest and most dramatic landscapes — granite tors, ancient stone circles, wild ponies and dramatic moorland stretching to the horizon.
- Exeter Northcott TheatreThe South West's leading producing theatre, attached to the University of Exeter. A programme of drama, dance, comedy and music year-round, with a strong tradition of new writing.
- Exeter's Independent QuarterThe West Quarter and the lanes around Gandy Street are home to one of the best concentrations of independent shops, cafés and restaurants outside London — a genuine alternative to the high street.
- Jurassic Coast20 miles south of Exeter lies England's only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site — 95 miles of stunning coastline spanning 185 million years of geological history, from Exmouth to Studland Bay.
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