Things To Do in Exeter
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Exeter Attractions
A Relic from William the Conqueror -- Just off "the High," at the top of Castle Street, stands an impressive Norman Gatehouse from William the Conqueror's castle. Though only the gatehouse and walls survive, you can enjoy the panoramic view and surrounding gardens, and contemplate all the invasions that have assaulted Exeter, from the Romans to the Nazi bombers of World War II.
- Religious Site
Exeter Cathedral
The Roman II Augusta Legion made its camp on the site where the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter now stands in Exeter. It has been occupied by Britons, Saxons, Danes, and Normans. The English Saint Boniface, who converted northern Germany to Christianity, was trained here in A.D. 690.… - Landmark
Exeter Guildhall
This colonnaded building on the main street is the oldest municipal building in the kingdom -- the earliest reference to the guildhall is in a deed from 1160. The Tudor front that straddles the pavement was added in 1593. Inside you'll find a fine display of silver, plus a number of… - Landmark
Powderham Castle
This private house is occupied by the countess and earl of Devon, who let Ismail Merchant and James Ivory use their home as a setting for The Remains of the Day, starring Anthony Hopkins and Emma Thompson. It was built in the late 14th century by Sir Philip Courtenay, sixth son of… - Museum
Royal Albert Memorial Museum
The city’s large Victorian-era museum, which underwent a major renovation 2011, has notable collections of paintings, local glassware, clocks and watches, silver, and Roman artifacts. The Royal Albert also administers St. Nicholas Priory, off Fore St., the guest wing of a…
Exeter Shopping
Exeter has long been famous for its silver. If you seek, ye shall find old Exeter silver, especially spoons, sold in local stores. Brufords, 17 Guildhall, Queen Street (tel. 01392/254901; www.brufords.co.uk), sells modern silver and jewelry.
You can find a number of antiques dealers in Exeter, many on the Quay off Western Way. The Quay Gallery Antiques Emporium (tel. 01392/213283; www.exeterquayantiques.co.uk) houses 10 dealers who sell furniture, porcelain, metalware, and other collectibles. The Antique Centre, on the Quay (tel. 01392/493501), has 20 dealers.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill, 23 Cathedral Yard (tel. 01392/412318), carries a large selection of woolen goods, including kilts, Aran jumpers, tartan travel rugs, and quality wool suits for women and trousers for men.
A daily market on Sidwell Street is Exeter's version of a flea market.
Honiton: The World of Antique Lace -- In Honiton, 26km (16 miles) northwest of Exeter, lace has been made since 1560, and many of its connoisseurs hail it as the world's highest-quality lace. Much in demand in the 17th and 18th centuries by rich families, the cottage industry is still flourishing at the Honiton Lace Shop, 44 High St. (tel. 01404/42416; www.honitonlace.com). The shop sells and displays antique lace from the 16th to the early 20th centuries. The outlet also sells lace-making equipment for both beginners and experienced lace makers. Demonstrations (no set times) are scheduled from June to August -- always call for an appointment.
Exeter Nightlife
Exeter is a lively university town offering an abundance of classical concerts and theater productions, as well as clubs and pubs.
An abundance of concerts, opera, dance, and film can be found year-round at the Exeter Phoenix, Bradninch Place, Gandy Street (tel. 01392/667080; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk), and Exeter University's Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road (tel. 01392/493493; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk), which is also home to a professional theater company.
Well House Tavern, Cathedral Close (tel. 01392/223611; www.michaelcaines.com/taverns/exeter), is part of the Royal Clarence/ABode Exeter. It's housed in a building believed to have been constructed in the 14th century, though the Roman well in the basement predates that estimate. The tavern is said to be haunted -- though the ghost, who wears a flowing white dress and is affectionately called Alice, is said to be good-spirited when she appears. Join Alice and the other regulars for a pint or a light meal.
Featuring a great view of the canal, Double Locks, Canal Banks (tel. 01392/256947; www.doublelocks.co.uk), welcomes a varied crowd, largely students. It features live music (jazz, rock, and blues) with no cover charge, and you can get traditional pub grub to go with your pint.
