Online Information for Backpackers about EXETER!

Exeter, located on the river Exe, has a varied and colourful history. Witness to Viking and Norman sieges, this city commanded a thriving international wool trade in the 1700’s and lived through near destruction during bombing raids of the Second World War. St Peters Cathedral survived, as did the ruins of Rougemount Castle and its stunning surrounding gardens.

Whilst retaining its history, Exeter is an exciting modern city with excellent travel links by road, rail and even its own international airport!

With its brand new Princesshay shopping centre Exeter has a wide range of cafes, bars and restaurants, night clubs and historic pubs. The Ship Inn on Martins Lane was supposedly a favourite of Sir Francis Drake.

Aside from wandering the interesting streets of the city try one of the many guided tours, boat trips from Exeter Quay or hire a bike and explore further. More action can be found paint-balling, scuba diving, go-karting and even skiing and snow boarding at the city’s dry ski slope.

by Christopher King

Exeter Summer Festival: 13th-29th June This is a definite highlight of the city’s cultural calendar. Music, theatre and much more.

Sidmouth Folk Week: 1st-8th August. Music, singing, dancing, pub sessions, workshops, concerts, storytelling, cream teas, beach parties... the list goes on!.

DOWN UNDER!

Have some adventure by visiting Exeter’s very own underground passages. An ancient monument in their own right, the passages lie beneath Exeter’s High Street. There's no other system of passages like it to explore in Britain!

Originally they were built to supply water through lead pipes from the natural springs found outside the old city walls. The passages date back to the 14th Century and have long inspired the imaginations of local people with stories of hidden treasure, secret escape routes and ghost stories.

Tours last roughly 1 hour 30 minutes and visitors to the Underground Interpretation Centre can enjoy an exhibition and video presentation before being guided down some of these amazing passageways.

by Christopher King