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Southernhay Exeter

4.6
·491k reviews·, United Kingdom

A serene garden oasis and vibrant shopping hub in the heart of Exeter, offering relaxation and retail therapy.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Southernhay Exeter - Image 1

Southernhay Exeter

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene garden oasis and vibrant shopping hub in the heart of Exeter, offering relaxation and retail therapy.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Princesshay car parks offer convenient city centre access."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Park at Princesshay

Princesshay car parks offer convenient city centre access. :car:

🛍️ Student Discounts

Look out for 'Strictly Students' events at Princesshay for exclusive deals. :moneybag:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Southernhay Gardens

Southernhay Gardens

Central Exeter

A tranquil green oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a moment of reflection.

Princesshay Shopping Centre

Princesshay Shopping Centre

Adjacent to Southernhay

A modern shopping destination with a wide array of high street brands, eateries, and entertainment options.

Exeter Cathedral

Exeter Cathedral

Near Southernhay

A magnificent Gothic cathedral with stunning architecture and a rich history, a must-see landmark.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Southernhay's Charm

Southernhay in Exeter offers a blend of historic architecture and green spaces. While charming, navigating its central location can be tricky. Consider parking at Princesshay for easy access to the city centre and its amenities. Reddit

Student Buzz in Princesshay

Princesshay, adjacent to Southernhay, is a hub for student events, offering discounts and entertainment. If you're a student, keep an eye out for 'Strictly Students' nights for exclusive deals and a lively atmosphere. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Thursday evenings (during events)
Why
Student discounts and lively vibe
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Strictly Students is BACK ✨ 📍 Princesshay, Exeter 🗓 Thursday 2nd Oct | 6–8pm 💸 Exclusive discounts, freebies, DJs, games + more! 🎟 FREE entry – just pre-register 👉 https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/strictly-students-2025-tickets-1491961078749?aff=oddtdtcreator Don’t miss the BIGGEST student night of the year 👀🔥 @Princesshay Exeter #StrictlyStudents25 #PrincesshayExeter #StudentLife
@elodieeee123
1.8K likes • 29.4K views

🚗 Park at Princesshay

Princesshay car parks offer convenient city centre access. Reddit :car:

🛍️ Student Discounts

Look out for 'Strictly Students' events at Princesshay for exclusive deals. TikTok :moneybag:

reddit.com

A flying visit - where to park?

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Gardens

Enjoy a relaxing walk through Southernhay Gardens for a peaceful escape. :evergreen_tree:

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Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Park at Princesshay

Princesshay car parks offer convenient city centre access. Reddit :car:

🛍️ Student Discounts

Look out for 'Strictly Students' events at Princesshay for exclusive deals. TikTok :moneybag:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Gardens

Enjoy a relaxing walk through Southernhay Gardens for a peaceful escape. :evergreen_tree:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Southernhay is appreciated for its central yet tranquil gardens, offering a peaceful respite in Exeter. Adjacent Princesshay is a popular shopping and dining hub, particularly for students seeking discounts and events. While convenient, navigating the city centre by car can be a challenge for some.

What People Like

Peaceful gardens
Central location
Shopping variety

What People Dislike

City centre driving

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Driving into Exeter city centre can be complex. Many visitors find the Princesshay car parks to be the most convenient option for accessing Southernhay and the surrounding areas. Reddit Alternatively, consider using the Park and Ride services if you prefer to avoid city centre driving. Reddit

Yes, Southernhay is centrally located in Exeter and is well-served by local bus routes. The main bus station is also within walking distance, making it accessible via public transport from various locations. :bus:

While direct street parking immediately adjacent to Southernhay Gardens might be limited, the Princesshay multi-storey car park is very close by and offers ample parking spaces. Reddit :car:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Southernhay Gardens are a public park and are free to enter. You can enjoy the green space without any admission fees. :ticket:

Princesshay Shopping Centre is open to the public and there are no entry fees to browse the shops or walk around. You only pay for your purchases. :shopping_bags:

For events like 'Strictly Students', tickets are often available through online platforms like Eventbrite. Pre-registration is usually required. TikTok Keep an eye on Princesshay's social media for announcements. :iphone:

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Southernhay is primarily known for its beautiful gardens, offering a peaceful retreat. It's a great spot for a leisurely walk, enjoying nature, or simply relaxing. :parkwithtree:

Princesshay features a wide range of high street retailers, including fashion brands, beauty stores, and homeware shops. It's a popular spot for shopping in Exeter. :shirt:

The manicured lawns, mature trees, and surrounding historic architecture in Southernhay Gardens provide lovely backdrops for photos, especially during spring and summer. :camerawithflash:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Princesshay Shopping Centre, adjacent to Southernhay, offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants. You'll find choices to suit different tastes and budgets. :forkandknife:

While there are no cafes directly within Southernhay Gardens, the numerous cafes and eateries in the nearby Princesshay Shopping Centre are just a short walk away. :coffee:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Southernhay Gardens offers a safe and pleasant environment for families to enjoy. The open lawns are perfect for children to run around, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it a good spot for a break from sightseeing. Nearby Princesshay Shopping Centre has a variety of family-friendly eateries, providing convenient options for meals and snacks. TikTok

🎓 Students

Princesshay is a key destination for students in Exeter, especially during 'Strictly Students' events which offer significant discounts and a lively atmosphere. TikTok The proximity of Southernhay provides a quiet escape after a busy shopping or social event. Keep an eye on Princesshay's social media for upcoming student-focused promotions. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Day-Trippers

For day-trippers, Southernhay and Princesshay offer a convenient combination of relaxation and retail therapy. You can enjoy a peaceful morning in the gardens before heading to Princesshay for lunch and some shopping. Parking at Princesshay is straightforward, making it an easy stop during your visit to Exeter. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Southernhay Gardens

Southernhay Gardens is a beautifully maintained public park located in the heart of Exeter. It's a cherished green lung offering a tranquil escape from the urban bustle. The gardens feature well-tended lawns, mature trees, and flower beds that provide seasonal color. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a peaceful walk, have a picnic, or simply sit and relax amidst nature. The surrounding architecture adds to the picturesque setting, making it a delightful place to visit any time of year. Reddit

Princesshay: A Shopping and Social Hub

Princesshay Shopping Centre, situated right next to Southernhay, is Exeter's premier retail destination. It boasts a modern design and houses a diverse mix of high-street brands, from fashion and accessories to electronics and homeware. Beyond shopping, Princesshay is a vibrant social hub, featuring a wide array of cafes, restaurants, and bars, making it a perfect place to grab a bite, meet friends, or enjoy an evening out. TikTok The centre also frequently hosts events, including popular student nights that offer exclusive discounts and entertainment. TikTok

Navigating Exeter's City Centre

Exeter's city centre, including the area around Southernhay, can be a bit convoluted for first-time visitors. The roads are often narrow and can get busy, especially during peak hours. For those driving, the Princesshay car parks are highly recommended for their central location and ease of access to Southernhay and the main shopping areas. Reddit If you prefer to avoid city centre driving altogether, Exeter offers Park and Ride services from various points around the city, which can be a more stress-free option for reaching the heart of Exeter. Reddit

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