Living in Exeter

Exeter blends historic charm with modern convenience as a city living surrounded by countryside and coastline. Whether you’re interested in its heritage, green spaces or strong sense of community, this Exeter area guide explores what local life looks like.

Where is Exeter?

Exeter is situated in southwest England, on the banks of the River Exe. It’s the county town of Devon and home to around 130,000 people. The city lies roughly 170 miles from London and is well connected by road and rail, with the M5 motorway and direct train services linking it to other major centres.

To the west of Exeter is Dartmoor National Park, a large upland area known for its rugged terrain and archaeological sites. The coast is also within easy reach – Exmouth is around a 35-minute drive, offering access to beaches and the Jurassic Coast.

Is Exeter a nice place to live?

Exeter is often praised for its compact size, mix of amenities and access to surrounding natural areas. The city centre is walkable and includes a range of shops, cafés, restaurants and cultural venues. It also hosts regular markets and events and has a reputation for supporting independent businesses.

Several neighbourhoods offer different living environments, from central apartments to suburban housing. Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or raising a family, Exeter offers a good standard of living, a relatively low crime rate, and a lifestyle that balances urban convenience with a mix of nature and community.

What is Exeter famous for?

Exeter’s historical significance is one of its defining features. The city dates back to Roman times, when it was known as Isca Dumnoniorum, and remnants of its Roman walls still stand today. Over the centuries, Exeter has evolved through medieval, Tudor and modern periods, with its varied architecture and landmarks reflecting a layered past.

At the centre of the city is Exeter Cathedral – a prominent example of Gothic design with over 900 years of history. It remains one of the most recognisable buildings in the region and continues to host events and services throughout the year.

Beneath the city streets lies a network of medieval vaulted tunnels known as the Underground Passages. Originally built to carry fresh water into the city, they now form part of Exeter’s heritage and are open to the public via guided tours.

Exeter is also home to the University of Exeter, a Russell Group institution that contributes to the city’s academic reputation and research output, particularly in fields such as climate science and humanities.

Things to do in Exeter

Exeter’s history is a major attraction. Free Red Coat walking tours run through the city centre, offering insights into the old Roman walls, Tudor buildings and other historical landmarks.

The city’s Historic Quayside is located around a 15-minute walk from the centre and is one of Exeter’s most distinctive areas. It features a mix of historic architecture, waterside pubs, restaurants and cafés, and hosts events throughout the year. Activities available in the area include cycling, walking, boat trips, water sports and climbing.

The city centre includes a range of high street retailers and independent shops, with plenty of places to eat and drink interspersed throughout. Several parks and gardens also offer quieter spaces away from the main urban areas.

Beyond the city, Exeter also serves as a gateway to South Devon, Dartmoor and the Jurassic Coast. Its location and transport links make it well placed for accessing nearby countryside and coastline.

What is the transport like in Exeter?

Exeter has good transport links, with regular train services, local buses and easy access to the M5 motorway. The city is walkable and increasingly bike-friendly, with infrastructure continuing to develop.

Several train stations serve the city, providing routes to London and other major destinations such as Plymouth, Penzance and Bristol. Regional services also connect Exeter to towns including Barnstaple, Paignton, Exmouth and Okehampton.

Exeter International Airport is also located nearby at Clyst Honiton, offering further connectivity across the UK and beyond.

Schools in Exeter

Exeter has a variety of schools, including public, primary, grammar and private secondary options. These schools generally offer comprehensive facilities, extracurricular programmes and learning environments that cater to a range of educational needs.

For those pursuing higher education, the University of Exeter is located nearby. It is a member of the Russell Group and is regularly listed among the top-performing universities in England, with a particular focus on environmental and climate science research.

Is Exeter safe?

Exeter is generally considered to be a safe place to live.  In the year ending September 2024, the crime rate in the city was below that of similar areas such as Brighton and Hove, Cardiff, Reading, Eastbourne, Oxford and Cambridge, as per Office for National Statistics data.

What are the average property prices in Exeter?

House prices in Exeter were £326,443 on average over the last year. The majority of properties sold were terraced homes, which averaged £291,843. Semi-detached properties sold for around £343,452, while detached homes fetched an average of £473,417.

Overall, sold prices were 3% lower than the previous year and 4% below the 2022 peak of £340,502.

Exeter or Plymouth?

Exeter and Plymouth each offer something unique, from their cultural scenes and coastal settings to the pace of life and types of communities you’ll find there. Exeter leans more towards a historic, student-friendly vibe with a compact city centre and easy access to countryside, while Plymouth has a strong maritime identity, a larger urban sprawl and a rugged coastal charm.

If you’re weighing up which one to call home, it’s worth spending time in both – exploring the neighbourhoods, chatting to locals, and getting a feel for the day-to-day rhythm to see which city best aligns with your lifestyle.

FAQs

• Is Exeter good for students?
  Exeter is home to a respected university and has a strong student presence, with plenty of amenities geared towards student life.
• What’s the nightlife like in Exeter?
  The city offers a mix of pubs, bars and clubs, mostly concentrated around the city centre. It’s lively but relatively compact.
• Is Exeter good for families?
  Exeter is generally seen as a safe and green city, with access to well-rated schools and family-friendly neighbourhoods.
• How far is Exeter from London?
  London is around 170 miles away from Exeter. The train journey takes about 2.5 hours, while driving usually takes just over three hours.

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