{"id":608,"date":"2026-03-01T15:48:45","date_gmt":"2026-03-01T15:48:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.exeterviews.co.uk\/exeter-blog\/?p=608"},"modified":"2026-03-03T08:46:38","modified_gmt":"2026-03-03T08:46:38","slug":"best-things-to-do-in-exeter","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.exeterviews.co.uk\/exeter-blog\/best-things-to-do-in-exeter\/","title":{"rendered":"25 Best Things to Do in Exeter (2026) \u2013 Local Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

25 Best Things to Do in Exeter (2026 Local Guide)<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
\"Exeter<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Exeter may be one of the smaller cities in the South West, but it offers a remarkable variety of attractions and experiences. If you\u2019re searching for the best things to do in Exeter, you\u2019ll quickly discover that the city combines impressive medieval architecture, Roman heritage and waterside walks along the Quayside with a growing food scene and year-round events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are planning a weekend break, visiting family at the University, or simply looking for new ideas close to home, this curated list highlights some of the very best experiences the city has to offer in 2026. You\u2019ll find a mix of well-known landmarks, free activities, family-friendly options and a few local favourites that are sometimes overlooked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For a more detailed overview of attractions, events, shopping and dining, you can also explore our Things to Do in Exeter<\/a> guide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Historic Landmarks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

1. Exeter Cathedral<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Step inside Exeter Cathedral<\/a>, one of England\u2019s finest medieval cathedrals and home to the longest unbroken Gothic vault ceiling in the world. Its historic fabric, stained glass and peaceful Cathedral Close setting make it an essential first stop in the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Exeter\u2019s Underground Passages<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Beneath the busy streets, Exeter\u2019s Underground Passages<\/a> form a rare network of medieval tunnels built to carry drinking water into the city. Guided tours take visitors underground for a fascinating glimpse into Exeter\u2019s engineering past.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Rougemont Castle & Gardens<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The remains of this Norman fortress sit beside peaceful gardens just moments from the city centre. Though now largely ruinous, the surviving gatehouse and red stone foundations hint at Exeter\u2019s strategic importance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Exeter\u2019s Roman & Medieval Walls<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Fragments of the original Roman defences can still be traced around the city. Walking alongside these ancient stones offers a tangible link to Exeter\u2019s earliest foundations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Exeter Guildhall<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One of the oldest municipal buildings in the country still in use, the Guildhall has served as a centre of civic life for centuries. Its historic interior reflects the city\u2019s long administrative heritage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Museums & Culture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

6. Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM)<\/a> blends art, archaeology and natural history in a beautifully restored Victorian setting. A firm favourite with locals, it\u2019s an engaging place to explore Exeter\u2019s global and local stories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. Red Coat Guided Tours<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Red<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Red Coat Guided Tours<\/a> offer visitors the chance to explore Exeter\u2019s streets with knowledgeable volunteer guides. Themes vary throughout the year, offering insight into different aspects of the city\u2019s past.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. Exeter Phoenix<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A lively arts venue hosting cinema, live music, theatre and exhibitions. It\u2019s a creative hub that reflects the city\u2019s modern cultural energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. Barnfield Theatre<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A welcoming local theatre presenting drama, comedy and community productions in an intimate setting close to the city centre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10. St Nicholas Priory<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One of the oldest buildings in Exeter, this former medieval priory offers a glimpse into Tudor and Stuart domestic life within timber-framed surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Outdoors & Riverside<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

11. Exeter Quayside<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Cyclists<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Exeter Quayside<\/a> is a favourite with locals, combining waterside walks with caf\u00e9s, cycle hire and outdoor activities. It\u2019s an ideal place to relax and watch life along the River Exe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

12. Northernhay Gardens<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Believed to be among the oldest public gardens in England, Northernhay offers mature trees, memorials and a peaceful setting just steps from the High Street.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

13. Rougemont Gardens<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Often overlooked, these gardens provide a quiet green space near the castle ruins \u2014 particularly attractive in autumn when the trees begin to change colour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

14. Exeter Canal Walk & Cycle Route<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Follow the canal path from the Quayside towards the Double Locks and beyond. Popular with walkers, runners and cyclists, it\u2019s a scenic escape from the city centre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

15. Discover Exeter\u2019s Blue Plaques<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Exeter\u2019s streets are dotted with blue plaques marking notable residents, historic events and important buildings. Seeking them out makes an easy self-guided walking activity, especially around Cathedral Close and the city centre. You can read more about some of the city\u2019s plaques in our feature on Exeter\u2019s Blue Plaques<\/a>, or browse photographs in our Blue Plaques gallery<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shopping, Food & Markets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

16. Princesshay Shopping Area<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Princesshay Shopping Area<\/a> combines modern retail with historic surroundings in an open-air setting in the heart of the city. Home to a wide range of national brands, it sits just a short walk from Cathedral Close.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

17. Gandy Street<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For something more independent, Gandy Street is lined with boutiques, caf\u00e9s and specialist shops in one of the city\u2019s most characterful lanes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

18. Exeter\u2019s Independent Restaurants<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Exeter\u2019s independent restaurants range from traditional pubs to contemporary dining spots, with plenty of options within easy walking distance of the city centre. For a broader overview of places to eat, explore our restaurants in Exeter<\/a> page for a selection of local options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

19. Exeter Farmers\u2019 Market<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Held regularly in the city centre, the market showcases local produce from across Devon, offering a taste of the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

20. Cathedral Close Caf\u00e9s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Enjoy coffee or lunch in the shadow of the Cathedral, where historic surroundings provide one of the most picturesque settings in the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Events, Leisure & Free Activities<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

21. Exeter Christmas Market<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Wooden<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Held on Cathedral Green, the festive market attracts visitors each winter with wooden chalets, seasonal food and a lively atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

22. University of Exeter Campus Walks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Streatham Campus is known for its landscaped grounds and elevated views \u2014 ideal for a gentle stroll when open to visitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

23. Sports Matches at Sandy Park or St James Park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Experience the atmosphere of live rugby or football and join the strong local support on match days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

24. Free Exploring in Cathedral Close & City Centre<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Many of Exeter\u2019s most rewarding experiences cost nothing \u2014 wandering historic streets, spotting Roman wall fragments and soaking up the city\u2019s character.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

25. Seasonal Festivals & Community Events<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

From food festivals to outdoor performances, Exeter hosts a variety of events throughout the year. For upcoming dates and selected local listings, visit our Exeter events calendar<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Exeter may be compact, but it offers a surprising range of experiences for visitors and residents alike. Whether you are interested in history, riverside walks, shopping, food or seasonal events, these really are some of the best things to do in Exeter in 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While this list highlights 25 of the best things to do in Exeter, there\u2019s always more happening across the city throughout the year. For additional ideas on attractions, places to eat, shopping areas and local events, take a look at our Things to Do in Exeter<\/a> page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Planning a visit? Here are 25 of the best things to do in Exeter in 2026, including iconic landmarks, hidden gems, free activities and local favourites.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":613,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[67],"tags":[14,13],"class_list":["post-608","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-things-to-do-in-exeter","tag-exeter-cathedral","tag-exeter-quayside"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exeterviews.co.uk\/exeter-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/608","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exeterviews.co.uk\/exeter-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exeterviews.co.uk\/exeter-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exeterviews.co.uk\/exeter-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exeterviews.co.uk\/exeter-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=608"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/www.exeterviews.co.uk\/exeter-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/608\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":622,"href":"https:\/\/www.exeterviews.co.uk\/exeter-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/608\/revisions\/622"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exeterviews.co.uk\/exeter-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/613"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exeterviews.co.uk\/exeter-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=608"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exeterviews.co.uk\/exeter-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=608"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exeterviews.co.uk\/exeter-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=608"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}