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| Exeter Coast Guide Exeter is situated in east Devon around five miles from the coast however it was once an important port on England's south coast. This thriving city lies on the River Exe which runs through the city and joins the coast at Exmouth. Exeter is a vibrant, modern city that now styles itself as the regional capital of the Westcountry - however its roots go back a long time, to Roman times and beyond.
For details of Exeter Hotels and Holidays Guest Houses and Cottages and to visit Attractions. Go to Exeter Hotels Guest Houses and Cottages
A thousand years later, in 1068, the walls protected the city from the invading Normans led by William the Conqueror. The city resisted the attackers for 18 days until the walls were breached and the city surrendered. The Normans then constructed Rougemont Castle from which to administer the region. The remaining part of this development now serve as the Court buildings for Exeter.
Exeter also has a fine University, set in landscaped grounds over looking the city. The city has around 12,000 students at various institutions and as a result the bars, cafes and bookshops do a good trade and there is an energetic nightlife.
Places to visit in Exeter Exeter Cathedral - 12th century Cathedral and Cathedral yard with shops, pubs and cafes. Exeter Quay - The old port area of the city now restored with pubs, cafes and shops. Also available are canoes, paddle boats and bikes to hire. Exeter Underground Passages - Passages under the High Street that date from 14th century Crealy Adventure Park - Amusements and adventure rides just outside Exeter. Cycle path - which follows the Exeter canal to the Double Locks pub and the Turfs Hotel. Alternatively you can go in the direction of Topsham and follow the track to Exmouth. There are a couple of river crossings via ferries which take bikes.
Nearby and well worth a visit. Powderham Castle - Built in around 1390 now home to the Earl and Countess of Devon - for details visit: Powderham Castle A la Ronde - a National Trust property - follow the road to Exmouth. Map of Exeter View Larger Map < Exmouth Guide Dawlish Guide >
Other sections of the guide you might also enjoy - see below.
Attractions - see listings pages We will bring you feature articles about the coastline and news items about life in the coastal area. contributions to this section are welcome.
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Ukcoastguide
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Ukcoastguide 2019
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Exeter quay
Situated on a small hill on a bend in the River Exe, the site
of the modern day city has been occupied for over two thousand years. The Romans
built a permanent settlement here around 50 AD to form the administrative centre
of the region. The shape of the modern city is derived from this settlement and
there are still significant parts of the old roman wall on display around the
city. 
The Normans were also responsible for building Exeter's
magnificent cathedral- St Peters. Built on the site of an existing church, St
Peters was constructed between 1112 and 1133. The design was unusual for that
time and is based on twin transept towers which support the north and south
walls. The entrance is via the Great West Front which is decorated with many
sculptures which were originally painted in bright colours. Inside there are
many examples of medieval craftsmanship with the highlight being the stained
glass of the East Window.
Exeter has a long maritime history stretching back to Roman
times. When the rivers of Britain were the main highways Exeter became a port
with ships travelling up the river from Exmouth to offload produce in the city.
The results of this trade can be seen at the quay area of the city where there
is the Customs House and several old warehouses to be seen, mostly now converted
to houses, shops and cafes. Sir Walter Raleigh who was born near Exmouth often
frequented the city and Sir Francis Drake was a patron of The Ship Inn and Mols
Coffee House both in Cathedral Close.
Whether
your idea of an ideal activity is sunbathing or you prefer something more
strenuous, the chances are that you will be able to pursue this at the
coast. There is a wide selection of activities that can be found on our
coastline - these range from a gentle stroll to the next bay, to swimming and snorkelling,
to more energetic activities such as sailing, surfing, windsurfing and kite
sailing. See Activities section.