Roman Origins: Originally established as a Roman settlement called Isca Dumnoniorum around AD 50, Exeter was a strategic fortress town.
Medieval Period: Flourished during the Middle Ages with the construction of Exeter Cathedral (begun in 1112) and city walls.
Tudor & Stuart Eras: Became a hub for the wool trade, one of the most important cities in England at the time.
Civil War: Besieged and occupied during the English Civil War.
World War II: Suffered damage in the Baedeker Blitz but retained much of its historic character.
Description of Exeter Today
Population: Around 130,000 residents.
Atmosphere: A vibrant mix of ancient and modern, with a strong student presence due to the University of Exeter.
Landmarks:
Exeter Cathedral – Gothic masterpiece with the longest uninterrupted vaulted ceiling in England.
Historic Quayside – Lined with old warehouses, now home to shops, cafes, and pubs.
Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM) – Award-winning museum showcasing local and global history.
Underground Passages – 14th-century tunnels beneath the city, originally built to carry water.
Typical Food
Devon Cream Tea: Scones with clotted cream and jam (in Devon, cream goes before the jam).
Pasties: Similar to Cornish pasties, often filled with beef and root vegetables.
Fish and Chips: As a coastal region, fresh seafood is popular.
Cider: Local farms produce traditional West Country cider.
Locally Sourced Fare: Exeter restaurants often use produce from Devon’s farms, fisheries, and orchards.
Activities in Exeter
Sightseeing:
Explore Exeter Cathedral, Rougemont Castle, and the Roman city walls.
Take guided tours of the Underground Passages.
Outdoor Fun:
Walk or cycle along the Exeter Ship Canal or the Exe Estuary Trail.
Visit Haldon Forest for hiking and mountain biking.
Shopping & Markets:
Princesshay Shopping Centre for modern retail.
Exeter Farmers’ Market for local goods.
Cultural Events:
Exeter Festival, Respect Festival, and other seasonal events.
Performances at the Northcott Theatre or Barnfield Theatre.
Day Trips:
Nearby Dartmoor National Park.
Coastal towns like Exmouth or Sidmouth.