Exeter – Gateway to the South West
There are many reasons for visiting Exeter, the capital city of Devon. Exeter seamlessly combines access to historic buildings and to modern shopping, in a light and airy atmosphere, whilst the Devon hills can be seen in the distance from the high street.
Historically, a settlement has existed here since Celtic times and the Roman occupation in 50AD resulted in the city walls that still contain much of the original brickwork.
Visit Exeter Cathedral – set in the large, recently renovated, Cathedral Green, where people can be found relaxing on a summer’s day. Marvel at a building so beautiful, and yet over 1100 years old, which houses the largest Gothic vaulted ceiling to be found anywhere in the world. Take some time to study the intricate carvings on the west front and see how some have been damaged by both weather and war.
Visit the quayside, once of great importance for trade, especially in wool, but now home to several delightful craft shops, cafés and bars. Watch the hundreds of swans on the river along with geese and ducks. Then take a ferry down to the pub at ‘Double Locks’ where you can stop for a pint, or continue all the way to Exmouth.
Exeter’s Princesshay shopping centre boasts many famous high street stores and designer names, or venture down Gandy Street and you will discover a variety of independently owned clothes, jewellery and gift shops.
When the time comes for refreshment you will not be disappointed; you will be spoilt for choice as you decide which café to visit to sample that most traditional delicacies of Devon, the ‘Cream Tea’.