Exeter

Exeter - Devon historical city close to seaside and scenic rural beauty.

Exeter is a great touring centre, it's also a great day out if you are staying elsewhere in Devon.

Situated near the spectacular South Devon coastline with superb views across the River Exe and surrounded by unspoilt Devon countryside, the City of Exeter is on the M5 Motorway and has superb rail links.

Exeter Cathedral is a perfect example of English Gothic architecture, with two Norman towers dating from 1160, and the longest stretch of Gothic vaulting in the World. The Cathedral survived the bombing of World War 2, and Exeter is home to great Anglo Saxon manuscripts including an important 10th century document about runes.

There is a 15th century Cathedral Clock to be discovered, exquisitely carved roof bosses, stained glass masterpieces and the Minstrels' Gallery high above the Nave.

Exeter offers its historic Quayside resort and the 14th century medieval Undergound Passages. There is an amazing variety of shops ranging from open air market stalls, specialist maps and gift shops nestling among 17th century merchants' houses in quaint cobbled alleys and major High Street stores.

The Exe Estuary nature reserve, best accessed downriver at Exmouth, is the winter home for rare birdlife with hides and vantage points all along. See the birds too from a birdwatchers' boat cruise.

Not far from Exeter: Babbacombe