Exeter’s identity as a city shaped by millennia of history is evident in its architectural fabric, and this is especially clear in its varied venues. From its beginnings as a Roman fortress, Isca Dumnoniorum, through to its medieval eminence, the city has continuously adapted its spaces, offering a unique sense of place to all who visit. The history of Exeter, from its Roman origins to its role in the English Civil War and subsequent industrial changes, is etched into the buildings that line its streets. Many establishments occupy buildings repurposed from their original functions, from historic guildhalls now serving refreshments to former warehouses on the Exeter Quayside providing settings for events. Explore the Quayside, where the historic buildings now house a range of restaurants and shops, and consider the annual Exeter Fair, a tradition rooted in the city’s medieval past. Even ancient structures have been reimagined for contemporary use near the Cathedral Close, a testament to Exeter’s ability to blend the old with the new. The distinctive red sandstone and timeworn facades contribute to an atmosphere not easily replicated. You might also discover remnants of the Roman City Walls woven into the urban landscape. Walk down Gandy Street, and you will encounter independent shops and creative spaces, each with its own character reflecting Exeter's enduring sense of community. These are places where local life unfolds daily, and where events like the January Sessions showcase the city's independent spirit. Beyond Gandy Street, explore the commercial heart of Queen Street and Princesshay, or venture further to the academic energy of the University Campus. To ensure you have the most current information for planning your visits, our venue listings are updated daily, reflecting the real-time ebb and flow of activity across the city. This provides an up-to-date look at the diverse range of spaces Exeter offers, from the historic to the newly adapted, ensuring relevance to the local rhythm, and connecting you with the pulse of Exeter’s daily life, from the Weekly Market to the Exeter Self-Guided Walking Tours.
Featured places are selected local venues we recommend or that partner with The City Brief.
Restaurant
Richie's South Indian RestaurantRichie's South Indian Restaurant is a restaurant on Braddons Hill Road West in Exeter. This part of the city has a lively, local atmosphere. Richie's South Indian Restaurant is known for its authentic Masala Dosa and Idly, bringing the flavors of Tamil Nadu to Devon.
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The Forum KitchenThe Forum Kitchen is a cafeteria and food hall on the Streatham Campus of the University of Exeter. Located within the university grounds, it offers a lively atmosphere that blends with the academic energy of the area. The venue is known for its delicious rotisserie chicken and rotating independent food traders.
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Oh My KimchiOh My Kimchi is a Korean restaurant on Blackboy Road in Exeter. This area is known for its diverse food options and relaxed atmosphere. Oh My Kimchi is particularly known for its Kimchi Fried Rice, which attracts locals and visitors.
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The Chevalier InnThe Chevalier Inn is a Wetherspoon's pub on Fore Street in Exeter. It offers a traditional atmosphere alongside the activity of city life. The pub is known for its award-winning children’s meals, making it a popular choice for families.
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Exeter GrillExeter Grill is a grill restaurant on Well Street, a little outside Exeter’s city centre. The area has a relaxed atmosphere despite being fairly central. Exeter Grill is known for its consistently good steaks and grilled meats.
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PopeyesPopeyes in Exeter is a quick service restaurant on High Street. This busy area sees lots of shoppers and visitors to Exeter Cathedral and the Royal Albert Memorial Museum. Popeyes is known for its Louisiana Chicken Sandwich and offers a fast, affordable meal.
View Info →261 total places
Restaurant
Oh My KimchiOh My Kimchi is a Korean restaurant on Blackboy Road in Exeter.
View Info →Exeter Grill is a grill restaurant on Well Street, a little outside Exeter’s city centre.
View Info →Fast Food Restaurant
PopeyesPopeyes in Exeter is a quick service restaurant on High Street.
View Info →Fish And Chip Shop
Hook Fish & ChipsHook Fish & Chips is a traditional fish and chip shop on South Street in Exeter.
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BrownsBrowns Exeter is a restaurant on Haven Road, easily accessible from Exeter’s city centre.
View Info →Italian Restaurant
VinoVino Italian Restaurant is a restaurant on South Street in Exeter.
View Info →84 total places
Pub
The Chevalier InnThe Chevalier Inn is a Wetherspoon's pub on Fore Street in Exeter.
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The Turks HeadThe Turks Head is a historic pub on High Street in Exeter.
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The ShipThe Ship in Exeter is a traditional pub on Martins Lane.
View Info →Arcadia is a bar on Paul Street in Exeter.
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The Seven Stars HotelThe Seven Stars Hotel is a restaurant on Alphington Road in Exeter.
View Info →Rumours is a nightclub on Paul Street in Exeter.
View Info →62 total places
49 total places
Restaurant
Richie's South Indian RestaurantRichie's South Indian Restaurant is a restaurant on Braddons Hill Road West in Exeter.
View Info →Sports Centre
St Luke's Sports CentreSt Luke's Sports Centre is a Sports Facility offering indoor fitness and swimming in Exeter.
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Cosy ClubCosy Club Exeter is a characterful venue for private events on Southernhay Gardens in Exeter.
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Quay FitnessQuay Fitness is a Fitness Centre located on City Industrial Estate in Exeter.
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Lloyds GymLloyds Gym is a Fitness Centre located on Water Lane in Exeter.
View Info →Swimming Pool
Northbrook Swimming PoolNorthbrook Swimming Pool is an indoor swimming pool on Beacon Lane in Exeter.
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