Exeter hotels, United Kingdom

Best places to stay in Exeter

The heart of Exeter is a vibrant area, bustling with major attractions, shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as convenient access to Exeter Central Train Station. Further north, the Pennsylvania suburb is a hotspot for students, offering plenty of greenery and still within walking distance to the city's buzz. The Quayside features picturesque river views, charming cobbled paths, and a laid-back vibe, while Topsham, located just 4 miles from Exeter, is ideal for its quaint atmosphere and unique selection of shops and dining options.

Where to stay to be near popular attractions

If attractions are your focus, consider staying in the city center. You'll be just a short walk from Exeter's top attraction, the Cathedral, a stunning Gothic structure that is as breathtaking inside as it is outside. Close by, you'll find the intriguing Underground Passages, which historically provided water to the medieval city, now open for guided tours. A central hotel will also place you within easy reach of the Quayside for a change of scenery.

Where to stay with your family in Exeter

Families looking for hotels in Exeter will love the Quayside. On sunny days, rent a boat from Kayakhub and enjoy a trip on the River Exe, or take a walk through the stretches of green space just south of the quays. If the weather isn’t cooperative, there’s a tenpin bowling alley and a climbing gym to keep the kids entertained, plus numerous high-quality cafés and restaurants to recharge afterward. Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel is perfectly situated between the Quayside and city center and offers family rooms accommodating up to four people.

Where to find affordable hotels in Exeter

For budget-friendly hotels in Exeter, look around the city's various train stations for a cost-effective and convenient option. Mercure Exeter Rougemont Hotel is located in a beautiful Victorian building and offers affordability, located directly opposite Exeter Central, with double rooms starting at only $83 per night. A short walk away near Exeter St David’s is The Telstar, a stylish and highly-rated B&B with a lounge/bar serving breakfast for an additional charge. Rooms here are very reasonably priced at around $95 per night.

The 5 must-sees of Exeter

• Exeter Cathedral: A magnificent Gothic place of worship that dates back over 600 years, featuring an especially impressive vaulted ceiling.

• Royal Albert Museum and Art Gallery: A world-class museum and gallery with exhibits covering a wide range of topics, from zoology to fine art.

• Underground Passages: A complex of narrow, winding tunnels from the 14th century with a rich and fascinating history.

• Exeter Quay: A charming waterfront area offering something for everyone, from Georgian architecture and antique shops to riverside pubs and watersports centers.

• Topsham Museum: Located in a quaint fishing town just 4 miles from Exeter, this museum pays tribute to the area’s maritime past.

Party and nightlife in Exeter

If you're looking to kick off your night in Exeter with a relaxing drink by the river, head to the Quayside. On the Waterfront offers cask ales, delicious pizza, and an outdoor terrace. Take a stroll to the city center for a classic pint at historic pubs like The Ship Inn and The Turk’s Head, both just a stone's throw from the Cathedral. For a more upscale drink, visit Gandy Street, a narrow lane with a great selection of spots, including The Mermaid and The Cocktail Club. To wrap up the night with a lively experience, The Old Firehouse is famous for its live music, while Timepiece (just around the corner) is the city's top nightclub.

Going shopping in Exeter

Exeter city center has shops to suit all tastes—the aptly named High Street stretches for a full mile and offers fashion chains, beauty suppliers, department stores, and more. Nearby, you’ll also find Princesshay, a modern shopping precinct with over 70 popular brands, and Guildhall Shopping Centre, an ideal indoor option for those rainy days. The Quayside is great for antiques and furniture boutiques, as is nearby Topsham, where it’s well worth a visit to the large Antiques Centre and its three floors of goods. While you’re there, Topsham Saturday Market boasts a range of stalls selling local produce, handicrafts, flowers, jewelry, and more.

Hotels with rooftop bars

Hotel Indigo Exeter is a boutique option located in the heart of downtown. From Becketts, an intimate rooftop retreat, guests can enjoy stunning views of the Cathedral and beyond, looking towards Exmouth Bay, while sipping on classic champagnes and innovative cocktails.

Hotels with gourmet restaurants

Situated on the outskirts of Exeter, The Devon Hotel is renowned for its high-end cuisine, highlighting local products. The venue's elegant Carriages Brasserie, housed in a Georgian manor, offers exceptional food all day long, including a daily carvery and a famous Sunday lunch.

Spa hotels in Exeter

For a well-deserved break from the city center's hustle and bustle, Hotel du Vin Exeter features a spa offering a variety of treatments using products from REN and Nimue. Guests can choose from massages, body scrubs, facials, and more, with the bonus of a super-stylish outdoor pool heated to a cozy 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Luxury hotels in Exeter

Southernhay House Hotel is an intimate and luxurious hotel set in a Grade II-listed Georgian townhouse. With just 12 unique rooms available, the venue offers a personal touch and boasts amenities like a sophisticated cocktail bar and an airy restaurant serving seasonal specialties.