Essential Exeter Travel Guide: What to See & Do

Exeter is a compact cathedral city in Devon where Roman origins, medieval heritage, and modern culture come together. Shaped by its position on the River Exe, the city has a strong sense of place, enhanced by the surrounding countryside and easy access to the Devon coast.

Explore Exeter’s Underground Passages

One of Exeter’s most unusual attractions is hidden beneath the city streets. The Exeter Underground Passages were built during the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries to carry clean water from springs at St Sidwell’s into Exeter and its cathedral.

Stretching for more than 400 metres, these narrow tunnels demonstrate the practical ingenuity of medieval Exeter. Their original lead pipes were later removed and repurposed during the First World War. During the Second World War, the passages were used as air-raid shelters.

Today, a visitor centre explains the development of the underground network and features historical reconstructions showing how Exeter’s streetscape changed over time.

See Exeter Cathedral and the Medieval City Centre

Above ground, Exeter Cathedral remains at the heart of the city’s identity. This remarkable example of Gothic architecture is surrounded by medieval streets, historic courtyards, and remnants of the old city walls.

The city centre also has a lively modern atmosphere. Independent shops, cafés, pubs, and restaurants create an energetic setting, while nearby green spaces offer places to slow down and enjoy a quieter side of Exeter.

Why Visit Exeter?

For travellers researching things to do in Exeter, the city offers more than a collection of individual landmarks. Its appeal lies in the contrast between ancient stonework, hidden medieval infrastructure, university-town energy, and the landscapes of Devon.

For anyone wondering what to see in Devon, Exeter is an engaging destination that combines history, local character, and easy access to the surrounding countryside and coast.