It’s a small UK city with a lot going on; if you’re considering booking a weekend break to Exeter, there’s plenty to see and do!
With a history that pre-dates the arrival of the Romans, Exeter has a lengthy and fascinating past which is reflected in its most popular attractions. Visitors can step back in time in the city’s Underground Passages, or look upon the Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that dates back almost a thousand years. There are a considerable number of independent shops and cafés to stop by, as well as a selection of modern restaurants and age-old pubs. One thing’s for sure, you’ll never be bored during your short weekend break in Exeter.
Here are some of the top sights in Exeter to visit during your stay.
1.Visit the Royal Albert Memorial Museum
The Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM) is considered one of the best museums in the UK, and if you’re planning a weekend break in Exeter, you’ll be pleased to discover it conveniently situated in the city centre.
The museum is home to a collection of over one-million individual objects and specimens from around the world, all of which have been curated by leaders in their field. Whether you’re interested in botany, fine art, archaeology or ancient history, there’s something for everyone at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum.
If you’re staying at the Mercure Exeter Rougemont during your stay, you can walk to the Royal Albert Memorial Museum in one minute! So, make it the first stop on your way to the perfect day in Exeter.
2.Explore the Underground Passages
When you’re finished in the RAMM, get ready to walk – your next destination is six minutes away on foot, and it’s one of the city’s most popular attractions.
Exeter’s Underground Passages are synonymous with mystery. There are innumerable stories of wars, sieges, plague and pestilence surrounding the lengthy passages, though they were originally built to transport water from nearby natural springs into the city.
The Underground Passages are the only attraction of this kind in the country, so make sure you pass through during your stay!
3.See Exeter Cathedral at sunset
Emerge from the Underground Passages and enjoy a five-minute stroll to the city’s most iconic landmark – Exeter Cathedral. The Cathedral is one of the most excellent examples of Gothic design in the UK, recognisable for its Norman towers, intricate carvings and for having the longest stretch of unbroken Gothic vaulting in the world.
Arrive at the Cathedral at dusk and enjoy an unforgettable sunset, then head inside and explore the interior. The Cathedral’s choral tradition takes place at five o’clock most evenings and is free for all to attend, so time your visit right and you can sit back, relax, and listen to some of the most beautiful voices in the city.
It’s a six-minute walk back to the Exeter Rougemont Hotel from the Cathedral, but you’ll want to stop at one of the city’s many fantastic restaurants and grab something delicious before heading home. For an even more memorable evening, why not give in to temptation and enjoy a drink in a cosy pub or trendy cocktail bar along the way?
