EXETER

A Brief History
Originally known as Isca Dumnoniorum,(a Latinisation of a native Brittonic name describing flowing water) Exeter
was established as a Roman fortress more than 2000 years ago. Situated along the River Exe, it served as an
important military and administrative centre. The Roman presence is still evident in the city’s archaeology,
including the well-preserved city walls and an underground Roman passage system.
Exeter flourished in the Middle Ages. The Norman conquest of 1066 brought the construction of Exeter Cathedral,
a magnificent example of Gothic architecture that stands to this day. The city was an important location for trade
and industry in the region, playing a significant role during the English Civil War in the 17 th century.
Must-visit include Exeter Cathedral, The Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery, Exeter’s Underground
Passages, The Historic Quayside.
In addition to its historical attractions, Exeter is a thriving and vibrant city with a diverse range of shops,
restaurants, cultural events, and a world – leading university.
 Tour Step-by-step
This is just a recommendation, and things can change based on what the group wants to see, seasonal events
and unforeseen circumstances. Try your best to remain flexible to the wants/needs of the group.

Parking
 Magdelen Street Car Park
 Southernhay (street parking)
 Magdelen Road Car Park
Part way through the tour, during the free time, I’d consider moving the bus down to the quay. This is to be
able to take the students directly from there rather than making them walk all the way back up to town.
There is some free parking opposite the clip and climb, failing that, Havenbanks Car Park. Parking is usually
very easy to find here.

Train
Trains are very frequent, to Exeter and can be direct to Exeter Central, this can vary, but we’ll do our best to
avoid any trips with changes. We’ll either have tickets pre-paid for you or ask you to purchase the tickets
while at the station with a company card. You can get group tickets, but this means that the group must stay
together, no one can stay late in Exeter; if you know that someone wants to stay, you can buy their ticket
separately to the group saver.
You can also opt to get the train back from [Link] station if you opt to finish the tour at The Quay, this is
a shorter, flatter walk and a bit different. The tickets will be usable as you are allowed to break the journey.
Make sure that you double check the timings and work.
You should look after the tickets, at least until the return journey. You should also ensure that they know the
times of the trains so they can plan meeting times etc to ensure that they have plenty of time to make the
train.

The Tour
This is an idea for the route that stops at all the key tourist attractions in Exeter. The tour includes entry to
the Exeter Cathedral.
Set a meeting point, this is in case a student gets lost, or they decide not to do the tour. Exeter can be very
busy, so it can be difficult to keep track of all the students.
 Exeter Cathedral

under CC BY-NC-ND

Start your tour at Exeter Cathedral, founded in 1050 and completed in 1400. It is one of the best examples of
Gothic architecture in the UK. The cathedral is famous for its stunning fan-vaulted ceiling, considered one of the
most beautiful in the world. Inside, you’ll find the tomb of Richard Hooker (1554–1600), a significant figure in the
development of the Church of England. The cathedral's West Front, built in the late 12th century, is adorned with
biblical scenes and statues, and the Exeter Book—a 10th-century manuscript—remains one of the most
important Anglo-Saxon literary treasures. The Cathedral Green, a peaceful green space, provides a perfect view of
this magnificent building.

Gandy Street

Visit Gandy Street, a narrow, cobbled lane that has existed since at least the 14th century. Once a hub of
medieval trade, Gandy Street is now famous for its eclectic mix of independent shops, vintage stores, and cafés.
The street is often said to have inspired J.K. Rowling when creating Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series, with
its hidden, magical-feeling shops and narrow, atmospheric alleys. It’s also home to some historic buildings that
date back to medieval times, reflecting Exeter's long and rich history.
 Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery (RAMM)
Head to the Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery (RAMM), which opened in 1868. Housed in a grand
Victorian building, the museum’s collections span over 2,000 years of history. Explore exhibits on ancient Egypt,
Roman Exeter, and the city’s medieval past. The museum also showcases the city’s maritime history, with Exeter
once being a prominent port. RAMM’s impressive art collection includes works by local artists from the 19th and
20th centuries, alongside international pieces. This museum provides a great opportunity to explore the historical
depth of Exeter and its region.

Northernhay Gardens
Walk to Northernhay Gardens, which date back to 1612. The gardens were created on the site of the city’s
medieval fortifications and were laid out as a public park in the early 17th century. Originally a defensive area,
Northernhay was one of Exeter's most important areas during the medieval period. The gardens are home to
several notable sculptures and offer peaceful views of the city’s historic architecture. This serene spot is perfect
for a relaxing stroll through Exeter’s green space, with views of the old city walls.

St. Catherine’s Chapel and Almshouse (Ruins)

Visit the ruins of St. Catherine’s Chapel and Almshouse, founded in 1276 by the wealthy merchant and
philanthropist Sir John de Clendon. The chapel was originally built to house a shrine dedicated to St. Catherine of
Alexandria, and the almshouse provided shelter for elderly people. The building was severely damaged during the
Exeter Blitz of 1942, when the city was heavily bombed during World War II. The chapel, which had already been
abandoned by the early 20th century, was left in ruins after the bombing. The remaining stone structure today is a
reminder of Exeter's medieval past, as well as the destruction the city suffered during the war. The site, located
near the cathedral, offers a quiet, reflective space and highlights the city’s charitable history and the once-
important role this chapel played in providing care for the elderly.
The is an information board at the right-hand side of it, which you can show the students if they want to learn
more.

Free Time in the City Centre

Think about the group, find out what their preferences are and if they would like to visit the Quay or have some
more free time to shop, visit the RAAM or get something to eat. Inform them that there is a bit more walking to
the Quay if they chose to visit.
If you are planning on moving the minibus, give yourself plenty of time to drive down to the quay and walk up,
and if you are catching the train from either Exeter Central or St Thomas, check the times and ensure that you
have enough time to catch the train and see the quay if you plan on doing so.
 Exeter Quayside

End your tour with a visit to Exeter Quayside, which has been a key part of the city since the Roman period.
Exeter’s location on the River Exe made it a vital port for centuries, with goods such as wool, wine, and tin being
traded. The quayside’s docks date back to the 14th century, though the area underwent significant
redevelopment in the 19th century to accommodate larger vessels. Today, the quayside is a lively area full of
independent shops, cafés, galleries, and pubs. Take a relaxing stroll along the river, enjoy the scenic views, and
perhaps stop for a drink at one of the local pubs that line the water’s edge.