
Exeter Historic Quayside
Historic warehouses meet vibrant bars and restaurants along the River Exe. A perfect blend of past and present for a lively day or evening out.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Buzzing atmosphere, fewer crowds

Exeter Historic Quayside
Best Time
Buzzing atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic warehouses meet vibrant bars and restaurants along the River Exe. A perfect blend of past and present for a lively day or evening out.
"A lively and lovely setting, combining history, nature, and leisure with great food and drink options."

🚶♀️ Perfect for a Stroll
A lovely place for a relaxed walk, especially after shopping in the city centre. Enjoy the waterside views.
🍻 Evening Ambiance
The Quayside truly comes alive at night with its many bars and restaurants. Great for a lively evening out.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Warehouses & Cobblestone Streets
The Quayside area
Wander through beautifully preserved 18th-century buildings, now housing shops and eateries. Feel the history underfoot on the charming cobblestones.

The River Exe & Canal Basin
Along the River Exe
Enjoy scenic views of the River Exe and the tranquil canal basin. Watch boats glide by or simply soak in the waterside ambiance.

Vibrant Dining & Pub Scene
Throughout the Quayside
From cozy cafes to lively bars and restaurants, there's a culinary option for everyone. Perfect for a meal or a refreshing drink.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Atmosphere
Timing is Key for Enjoyment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Perfect for a Stroll
A lovely place for a relaxed walk, especially after shopping in the city centre. Enjoy the waterside views.
🍻 Evening Ambiance
The Quayside truly comes alive at night with its many bars and restaurants. Great for a lively evening out.
Things to do on a day out in Exeter?
☀️ Sunny Day Delight
Ideal on a nice sunny day for enjoying the open spaces and waterside activities.
🚲 Bike Hire Available
Rent a bike and explore the area further along the canal paths.
Trips from Exeter with public transport?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Perfect for a Stroll
A lovely place for a relaxed walk, especially after shopping in the city centre. Enjoy the waterside views.
🍻 Evening Ambiance
The Quayside truly comes alive at night with its many bars and restaurants. Great for a lively evening out.
☀️ Sunny Day Delight
Ideal on a nice sunny day for enjoying the open spaces and waterside activities.
🚲 Bike Hire Available
Rent a bike and explore the area further along the canal paths.
🎶 Live Music Often
Keep an eye out for live music, like jazz bands, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Exeter Quayside as a charming and vibrant area, perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying the waterside atmosphere. It's noted for its historical architecture, diverse dining options, and lively evening scene, though some feel it could be developed further as a major attraction.
"We go to Exeter when on holiday and when the weather is not looking good.
The Quayside is a short walk from Exeter shopping centre and is a really nice place to have a 1/2 hour or so stroll.
A lot more could be done to make it more of an attraction, hence 4 stars. I imagine it would be great on a night with all the bars around."
Jason Peacock
"Wonderful place to wander round, lots of pubs and places to eat from cafes to restaurants...we enjoyed a good fee hours here!"
Heather I'Anson
"A lovely well thought out Quay, have a variety of shops, bars, restaurants, and sporting activities for all ages, bike hire and lovely walks. A very beautiful part of Exeter, lovely after a bit of time in town to escape and feel free. Perfect on a nice sunny day."
Rob Dewey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Quayside is a short and pleasant walk from Exeter's city centre shopping area. It's easily accessible on foot, making it a convenient destination after a day of shopping.
While there might be limited street parking, it's generally recommended to use the city centre car parks and then walk down to the Quayside, as it's a very short distance.
Exeter St Davids train station is relatively close, and from there, it's a manageable walk to the Quayside. Buses also serve the city centre, from where you can easily walk down.
The main areas of the Quayside are generally flat and paved, making them accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. However, some older buildings or specific paths might have limitations.
A leisurely stroll is highly recommended to take in the atmosphere. For those wanting to cover more ground, bike hire is available, offering access to canal paths.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Exeter Quayside is a public area and does not have an entrance fee. You can wander freely and enjoy the atmosphere.
The Quayside itself is always open as it's a public space. Individual shops, bars, and restaurants will have their own operating hours, typically extending into the evening.
For general strolling and enjoying the ambiance, no booking is required. However, specific activities like boat trips or dining at popular restaurants might require advance booking, especially on weekends.
While not always advertised, local historical walking tours sometimes include the Quayside. It's worth checking with Exeter's tourist information centre for current offerings.
Dogs are generally welcome at Exeter Quayside, especially in outdoor areas. However, it's always a good idea to check with individual establishments if you plan to dine or enter shops with your pet.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a variety of artisan shops, independent boutiques, and gift stores. It's a great place to browse for unique items and souvenirs.
Yes, the Quayside offers sporting activities, including bike hire and opportunities for kayaking or paddleboarding on the river and canal.
The area is rich in history, with well-preserved 18th-century warehouses and a historic canal basin. It offers a glimpse into Exeter's maritime past.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy the open space, watch the boats, and there are often cafes and ice cream shops. Bike hire is also a hit with older children.
It's a lively and lovely setting, often described as an 'underrated jewel'. You might find live music, people enjoying boat trips, and a general buzz, especially on weekends.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There's a great variety, from casual cafes and pubs to more formal restaurants. You can find options for a quick bite or a full meal.
Yes, the Quayside is known for its pubs, offering a great atmosphere for a drink, especially in the evenings. Some may even feature live music.
Most establishments at the Quayside are accustomed to dietary needs and usually offer vegetarian and vegan options on their menus. It's always best to check directly.
The waterside setting and variety of restaurants make it a lovely spot for a romantic meal, particularly in the evening when the lights reflect on the water.
Yes, many of the cafes and pubs are very family-friendly, offering relaxed environments and menus that cater to children.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic warehouses, the reflections on the River Exe and canal basin, and the boats. The cobblestone streets also make for charming shots.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light. Evenings are also great for capturing the illuminated atmosphere of the bars and restaurants.
Look for shots of the working canal, the contrast between historic architecture and modern life, and any live music performances that add dynamism to your photos.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both wide scenes and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the architecture and river views.
While it's a public space, be mindful of privacy. Candid shots of people enjoying the atmosphere are generally fine, but avoid close-ups without consent.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There are plenty of family-friendly cafes and restaurants offering diverse menus, ensuring even picky eaters will find something they like. The relaxed atmosphere means you don't have to worry about keeping young ones too quiet. It’s a great spot for a picnic on a nice day or a casual meal out.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
For affordable dining, opt for the cafes and pubs which offer reasonably priced meals and drinks. Packing your own picnic to enjoy by the water is also a great way to save money while still soaking in the beautiful surroundings.
couples
In the evening, the Quayside truly shines with its array of restaurants and bars, many offering intimate settings perfect for a date night. Enjoying dinner with views of the illuminated waterfront or catching some live music adds to the romantic ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The Canal Basin is another key historical feature. This area was crucial for transporting goods inland, connecting Exeter to the wider network of waterways. Today, it's a picturesque spot where you can watch narrowboats and pleasure craft, a peaceful contrast to its industrial origins. The area also played a role in the city's development, showcasing how infrastructure shaped its growth.
For those interested in the deeper history, exploring the remnants of the old docks and understanding the evolution of the riverfront provides a richer appreciation of the Quayside's significance. It's a place where the past is not just remembered but actively integrated into the present, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs and casual visitors alike.
Experiencing the Quayside's Vibe
As evening approaches, the Quayside transforms into a vibrant social hub. The numerous pubs and restaurants come alive, offering a diverse range of dining and drinking experiences. Whether you're looking for a casual pint, a delicious meal, or even live music – sometimes featuring jazz bands – there's something to suit every taste. This makes it an ideal destination for a relaxed evening out or a lively weekend gathering.
The Quayside is often described as an 'underrated jewel' of Exeter, offering a perfect escape from the city centre's hustle and bustle. It's a place where you can easily spend a few hours soaking in the ambiance, enjoying good food and company, or simply appreciating the picturesque surroundings.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit