Exeter Escapades: The Ultimate 5-Day Family Adventure!

Discover family fun in Exeter, where history and adventure come together!

19 July 2023

Exeter, United Kingdom, offers a delightful family-friendly trip with a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore the iconic Exeter Cathedral, the magnificent underground passages, and the beautiful 10th-century ruins of Rougemont Castle, providing a great educational experience for kids and adults alike. With its stunning parks and gardens like Northernhay Gardens and the Quayside, families can enjoy picnics, leisurely walks, and various activities, creating lasting memories in this charming city.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Historic City:

  • Wander through the cobbled streets of the Cathedral Yard, where stunning Exeter Cathedral 4.6
    10 photos

    Exeter Cathedral

    4.6 (4354)

    1 The Cloisters, Exeter EX1 1HS, UK

    Tourist attraction,Church

    Medieval Gothic building, known for its vaulted ceiling and astronomical clock, with roof tours.

    exeter-cathedral.org.uk

    Learn more
    proudly stands.
  • Step back in time at the 14th-century underground passages, where you might spot a mischievous ghost or two!
  • Dive into the rich history at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum 4.6
    10 photos

    Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery

    4.6 (2003)

    Royal Albert memorial Museum Art & Gallery, Queen St, Exeter EX4 3RX, UK

    Museum,Art gallery

    Diverse collections, from art to anthropology, housed in ornate, Victorian, Gothic revival building.

    rammuseum.org.uk

    Learn more
    , showcasing everything from Egyptian mummies to modern art.
  • Enjoy a delightful picnic at the beautiful Northernhay Gardens 4.5
    10 photos

    Northernhay Gardens

    4.5 (305)

    Northernhay Gate, Exeter EX4 3SA, UK

    Park,Tourist attraction

    Gardens full of mature trees and colourful flowerbeds arrayed around the foot of Exeter Castle.

    exeter.gov.uk

    Learn more
    , surrounded by vibrant flowers and cheeky squirrels.
  • Soothe your tired feet with a pint at the famous The Old Firehouse 4.5
    10 photos

    The Old Firehouse

    4.5 (1958) • $

    50 New N Rd, Exeter EX4 4EP, UK

    Restaurant,Food

    Rustic, dark wood pub with exposed ceiling beams, for real ales, live music and courtyard tables.

    oldfirehouseexeter.co.uk

    Learn more
    , where the atmosphere is as warm as the roaring fireplace.
Day 2

Nature's Playground:

  • Immerse yourself in the natural wonderland of Dartmoor National Park 4.8
    10 photos

    Dartmoor National Park

    4.8 (14482)

    United Kingdom

    Park,Point of interest

    954 sq km for walking, horse riding & rock-climbing, plus seasonal guided tours.

    dartmoor-npa.gov.uk

    Learn more
    , where wild ponies roam freely and the air is thick with magic.
  • Embark on a thrilling adventure with a scenic boat trip along the serene River Exe 4.6
    10 photos

    River Exe

    4.6 (259)

    River Exe, United Kingdom

    Natural feature,Establishment

    Learn more
    , spotting graceful swans and cheeky otters.
  • Discover the secrets of the stunning Exeter Quay
    10 photos

    Exeter Quay

    Exeter Quay, Exeter EX2 4AN, UK

    Sublocality level 1,Sublocality

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    , lined with charming cafes and quirky independent shops.
  • Unleash your inner child at the Crealy Theme Park 4.4
    10 photos

    Crealy Theme Park & Resort

    4.4 (5239)

    Sidmouth Rd, Clyst St Mary, Exeter EX5 1DR, UK

    Amusement park,Lodging

    Theme park aimed mainly at younger kids, with an indoor animal kingdom, play area and live shows.

    crealy.co.uk

    Learn more
    , with exhilarating rides and adorable farm animals to cuddle.
  • Savor a mouthwatering cream tea at Tea on the Green 4.3
    10 photos

    Eat On The Green

    4.3 (1024) • $$

    2 Cathedral Cl, Exeter EX1 1EZ, UK

    Restaurant,Bar

    eatonthegreenexeter.com

    Learn more
    , where fluffy scones and clotted cream will transport you to foodie heaven.
Day 3

Coastal Charm:

  • Marvel at the breathtaking Jurassic Coast
    10 photos

    Jurassic Coast

    Jurassic Coast, UK

    Colloquial area,Political

    185 million years of geological history is showcased along this scenic, 95 miles of coastline.

    Learn more
    , just a short drive away, with its dramatic cliffs and hidden coves ready to be explored.
  • Discover the fascinating marine life at the National Marine Aquarium 4.4
    10 photos

    National Marine Aquarium

    4.4 (5483)

    Rope Walk, Coxside, Plymouth PL4 0LF, UK

    Aquarium,Tourist attraction

    Art deco-style aquarium with fresh and sea fish, sharks, feeding sessions and underwater tunnel.

    national-aquarium.co.uk

    Learn more
    , where majestic sharks and colorful corals steal the show.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along Exmouth Beach 4.6
    10 photos

    Exmouth Beach

    4.6 (2294)

    Esplanade, Exmouth EX8 2AZ, UK

    Tourist attraction,Point of interest

    Ice cream & fish ’n‘ chips on a seaside promenade beside a long beach known for rock pools.

    visitsouthdevon.co.uk

    Learn more
    , feeling the soft sand between your toes and watching the playful seagulls above.
  • Let your taste buds run wild at the Exeter Street Food Market 4.6
    3 photos

    Exeter Farmers Market

    4.6 (5)

    79 Fore St, Exeter EX4 3HR, UK

    Point of interest,Establishment

    Learn more
    , where tantalizing aromas and flavors from around the world collide.
  • Enjoy a cozy evening at The Hourglass 4.7
    10 photos

    The Hour Glass

    4.7 (455) • $$

    21 Melbourne St, Exeter EX2 4AU, UK

    Bar,Point of interest

    Wood-panelled pub serving real ales and British food in a homely 19th-century venue with open fire.

    hourglassexeter.co.uk

    Learn more
    , a charming pub nestled on the edge of Exeter, with its roaring fire and delectable pub grub.
Day 4

Quaint Villages and Culture:

  • Travel back in time at the enchanting village of Topsham
    10 photos

    Topsham

    Topsham EX3, UK

    Locality,Political

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    , with its quaint cottages and bustling riverside ambiance.
  • Explore the hidden gem of Powderham Castle 4.5
    10 photos

    Powderham Castle

    4.5 (1968)

    Powderham Estate, Exeter EX6 8JQ, UK

    Tourist attraction,Point of interest

    Lavish castle filled with antiques and tapestries with sections dating back to the 14th-century.

    powderham.co.uk

    Learn more
    , where grandeur and history combine to create a truly enchanting experience.
  • Indulge in a delightful cream tea at the charming Tea & Tittle Tattle Tearoom 4.6
    10 photos

    Tea & Tittle Tattle

    4.6 (147)

    4 Fore St, Budleigh Salterton EX9 6NG, UK

    Cafe,Store

    Learn more
    , surrounded by vintage teapots and dainty china.
  • Admire the contemporary art exhibitions at the Exeter Phoenix 4.5
    10 photos

    Exeter Phoenix

    4.5 (1205)

    Gandy St, Exeter EX4 3LS, UK

    Movie theater,Art gallery

    Multi-use arts venue with film and gig auditorium, gallery spaces, recording studio and a cafe-bar.

    exeterphoenix.org.uk

    Learn more
    , where the creative energy flows freely and inspiration awaits.
  • Savor the flavors of the ocean at Rockfish 4.5
    10 photos

    Rockfish Exeter

    4.5 (996) • $$

    9 Piazza Terracina, Haven Rd, Exeter EX2 8GT, UK

    Restaurant,Food

    therockfish.co.uk

    Learn more
    , a seafood paradise where locally sourced delights are cooked to perfection.
Day 5

Shopping and Farewells:

  • Go on a shopping spree at Princesshay 4.3
    10 photos

    Princesshay

    4.3 (5929)

    9 Catherine St, Exeter EX1 1QA, UK

    Shopping mall,Point of interest

    Light, modern mall featuring over 70 stores, including high-street names, fashion brands and dining.

    princesshay.co.uk

    Learn more
    , Exeter's premier shopping destination, boasting a mix of high street brands and designer boutiques.
  • Uncover unique treasures at the quirky Gandy Street, where independent shops and artistic cafes await your curious exploration.
  • Bid farewell to Exeter with a delicious dinner at The Fat Pig 4.6
    10 photos

    The Fat Pig

    4.6 (697) • $$

    2 John St, Exeter EX1 1BL, UK

    Bar,Restaurant

    Bright pub and brew house that raises its own pigs and uses local produce on a European menu.

    thefatpigexeter.co.uk

    Learn more
    , a gastropub serving up succulent dishes crafted with love and locally sourced ingredients.
  • Reflect on the memories of your visit while sipping a refreshing pint at the lively The Old Firehouse 4.5
    10 photos

    The Old Firehouse

    4.5 (1958) • $

    50 New N Rd, Exeter EX4 4EP, UK

    Restaurant,Food

    Rustic, dark wood pub with exposed ceiling beams, for real ales, live music and courtyard tables.

    oldfirehouseexeter.co.uk

    Learn more
    .
  • Wave goodbye to Exeter, knowing that this extraordinary city will forever hold a piece of your heart.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Exeter by plane is to fly into Exeter Airport. There are direct flights available from various cities across the UK and Europe.

Car

The best way to get to Exeter by car is to take the M5 motorway and exit at Junction 30 for Exeter. The journey time varies depending on your starting location.

Train

The best way to get to Exeter by train is to take a direct train from London Paddington to Exeter St Davids. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Exeter by boat, as the city is not situated on the coast. The closest port is Plymouth, which is approximately 55 miles away from Exeter.

Bus

The best way to get to Exeter by bus is to take a National Express coach from London Victoria Coach Station to Exeter Bus Station. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes.

Destination

Exeter

Welcome to a city where the locals have mastered the art of making fudge, but can't quite seem to master the art of driving. Buckle up, and get ready for a sweet and slightly chaotic adventure in Exeter.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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