Local Information

Welcome to Exeter

Exeter is a vibrant cathedral city in Devon, South West England. With a rich history dating back to Roman times, Exeter offers visitors a unique blend of heritage, culture, and modern amenities. The city serves as a gateway to the beautiful Devon countryside, Dartmoor National Park, and the stunning Jurassic Coast.

Getting to Exeter

By Air

Exeter Airport (EXT)

  • Located 5 miles east of the city centre
  • Domestic flights from various UK airports
  • Limited European connections
  • Bus and taxi services to city centre

Bristol Airport (BRS)

  • Major regional airport, approximately 80 miles from Exeter
  • Wide range of UK and European flights

London Airports

  • Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), and Stansted (STN)
  • Train connections to Exeter (see below)

By Train

Exeter has two main railway stations:

Exeter St Davids

  • Main intercity station
  • Direct services from London Paddington (approximately 2 hours)
  • Connections to Bristol, Birmingham, and the North
  • Closest station to the university campus

Exeter Central

  • City centre location
  • Local and regional services

Useful Links:

  • National Rail - Train times and tickets
  • GWR - Main operator for London-Exeter route

By Car

Exeter is well-connected by road:

  • M5 Motorway - From Bristol and the North
  • A30/A303 - From London and the South East
  • Approximate driving times:
    • London: 3.5-4 hours
    • Bristol: 1.5 hours
    • Birmingham: 2.5 hours

Parking: City centre parking is limited and can be expensive. We recommend using public transport to the campus.

By Coach

National Express operates regular services to Exeter from major UK cities.

About Exeter

History

Exeter’s history spans nearly 2,000 years:

  • Roman era - Founded as Isca Dumnoniorum
  • Medieval period - Major wool trading centre
  • Cathedral - Construction began in 1112, one of England’s finest Gothic cathedrals
  • World War II - Significant bombing damage, much rebuilt

Weather in April

April in Exeter typically offers mild spring weather:

  • Average high: 13-15°C (55-59°F)
  • Average low: 5-7°C (41-45°F)
  • Rainfall: Moderate; bring a waterproof jacket
  • Daylight: Long days with sunset around 8 PM

Recommendation: Dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing. UK weather can be unpredictable!

Attractions

Must-See

Exeter Cathedral

  • Stunning Gothic architecture
  • Longest uninterrupted vaulted ceiling in England
  • Astronomical clock from the 15th century

Underground Passages

  • Medieval passages beneath the city
  • Guided tours available

Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM)

  • Free entry
  • Natural history, world cultures, and local history

Exeter Quayside

  • Historic waterfront area
  • Cafes, pubs, and antique shops
  • Canal walks and boat hire

Day Trips

Dartmoor National Park

  • Dramatic moorland landscapes
  • Hiking, wildlife, and historic sites

Jurassic Coast

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Spectacular coastal cliffs and beaches

Torbay

  • English Riviera beaches
  • Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham

Dining and Nightlife

Near the University

  • The Ram Bar - On-campus pub in Devonshire House
  • New North Road - Various cafes and takeaways
  • St David’s area - Pubs and restaurants

City Centre

Exeter offers diverse dining options:

  • Cathedral Close - Cafes and traditional pubs
  • Gandy Street - Independent shops, cafes, and bars
  • Quayside - Waterfront dining
  • Princesshay - Shopping centre with chain restaurants

Traditional Pubs

Vegetarian/Vegan

  • Herbies - Vegetarian restaurant
  • Many restaurants offer vegetarian/vegan menus

Practical Information

Currency

  • British Pound Sterling (GBP / £)
  • Card payment is standard throughout the UK. Most places are card-only, including the university campus
  • ATMs are available in the city centre

Electricity

  • 230V, 50Hz
  • UK three-pin plug (Type G)
  • Bring adapters if needed

Mobile Phones

  • UK uses GSM 900/1800 and 3G/4G/5G networks
  • EU roaming charges may apply post-Brexit
  • Check with your provider before travelling

Emergency Services

  • Emergency: 999 or 112
  • Non-emergency police: 101
  • NHS (health) advice: 111

Useful Apps

  • Stagecoach - Local bus times
  • Trainline - Train tickets and times
  • Citymapper - Multi-modal transport planning
  • Google Maps - Navigation and local information

Visa Information

UK visa requirements vary by nationality. Please check the UK Government visa website for requirements specific to your country.

Registered conference participants requiring a visa support letter should contact us at emo2027@exeter.ac.uk.

Contact

For local information queries: