Places to visit in Exeter on a two day break

Start your trip with one of Exeter’s free Red Coat Guided Tours. They are led by knowledgeable locals and reveal the city’s eclectic past. Choose from daily tours exploring Exeter’s strange and unusual facts on an Oddities & Curiosities tour, Medieval Exeter or discover spooky facts about the city on a Ghosts and Legends tour. Stopping by many of Exeter’s historic buildings, you’ll hear chilling stories about one of the most haunted cities in the country. There’s no booking required – just show up at the meeting point by the Cathedral Green. 

Head straight into the heart of Exeter’s past with a visit to its awe-inspiring Cathedral. With 900 years of history and the longest uninterrupted vaulted ceiling in Europe, it’s no wonder that it’s one of the most visited landmarks in the West Country. Look up for unique features including grotesques, artworks detailing the murder of Thomas Becket and a 15th-century Astronomical Clock.  

Afterwards, take a stroll down neighbouring Cathedral Close – the heart of the city since the Roman era. Surround yourself with medieval charm at one of the cafés lining the close and tuck into a light lunch or cream tea while people-watching and soaking up centuries-old surroundings.  

Spend the afternoon at Exeter’s award-winning museum. With exhibits on everything from zoology to Egyptian mummies, it’s ideal for curious minds and whiling away the hours, especially on a rainy day. Inspect cabinets from Victorian biologist Percy Sladen who amassed one of the largest collections of echinoderms (starfish and sea urchins to us normal folk), admire Japanese samurai armour and see items from Captain Cook’s voyages up close. 

Hop aboard a ferry and set sail for one of the South West’s most unique dining experiences, the River Exe Café. Floating peacefully in the middle of the Exe estuary, this seasonal barge restaurant, open from April to September, serves fresh locally caught seafood and dishes with unbeatable views. Book into one of the rooftop tables to enjoy a bottle of wine as the sun sets over the horizon. 

Go beneath the city streets with a guided tour of Exeter’s medieval Underground Passages. These tunnels once brought clean water into the city and now offer a deep dive into Exeter’s murky past. Don a hard hat and prepare for narrow passageways and fascinating tales covering war, sieges, plague and pestilence. 

Head to the scenic quayside, home to indie shops, artist studios and riverside pubs. If the weather’s looking good, rent a kayak or paddleboard for a waterside adventure, or just sip something local over wood-fired pizza lunch at The Topsham Brewery & Taproom.

Work off lunch at the South West’s largest indoor climbing wall. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned climber, there are routes and challenges for every level, including Clip’n’Climb, a colourful climbing playground great for kids and the young at heart. 

Round off your break with a performance at Exeter Phoenix. Its eclectic programme includes everything from indie gigs and film screenings to comedy and theatre. Grab a pre-show drink at the café bar and enjoy the buzz of this creative space.