Exeter Cathedral travel guide

Exeter Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, boasts a rich history that dates back to 1050 when it was established as a cathedral under Bishop Leofric. The original Norman structure was replaced by the current Gothic design starting in 1270, with the cathedral being largely completed by 1400. Renowned for its stunning architecture, the cathedral features the longest uninterrupted vaulted ceiling in England.

The building has seen its share of historical events, including damage during the English Civil War and World War II. Despite these turbulent times, Exeter Cathedral has been meticulously restored and maintained, preserving its historical and architectural significance. Visitors can explore its intricate stone carvings, medieval misericords, and the famous Exeter Book, one of the oldest known collections of Old English literature.

Today, Exeter Cathedral remains a vibrant center for worship and community events, as well as a popular tourist attraction. Its storied past and breathtaking design make it a must-visit landmark for anyone interested in England's ecclesiastical heritage.

Exeter Cathedral boasts the longest uninterrupted medieval Gothic vaulting in the world, stretching over 300 feet. This architectural marvel creates a breathtakingly expansive and harmonious interior space. The cathedral is also renowned for its exquisite astronomical clock, dating from the 14th century, which provides a fascinating glimpse into medieval timekeeping and astronomy.

Another striking feature is the Minstrels' Gallery, an ornately decorated 14th-century structure adorned with carved angels playing musical instruments. The cathedral's collection of misericords is equally impressive, featuring intricate carvings that depict a variety of medieval life scenes and fantastical creatures.

The Great East Window, a stunning example of medieval stained glass, floods the interior with vibrant light and color. Additionally, the cathedral houses a rare 15th-century bishop's throne, standing 18 meters tall and intricately crafted from Devon oak. Together, these elements make Exeter Cathedral a distinctive and captivating masterpiece of medieval architecture and artistry.

Located in the dynamic Exeter, the popular Exeter Cathedral is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Exeter or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through England.

Exeter is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Exeter offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Exeter and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Belmont Park Exeter, Underground Passages, Riverside Valley Park, Northernhay Gardens, and St Thomas Pleasure Ground.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Exeter has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Exeter, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in England!

Exeter Cathedral is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Exeter, England. If you're flying in, Bristol Airport is approximately 57.6 miles (92.7 km) away from Exeter. From there, you can easily reach Exeter Cathedral by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Exeter, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Exeter Cathedral, which is located 0.2 miles (0.4 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Exeter Cathedral, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is 1 The Cloisters, Exeter EX1 1HS, UK.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Exeter Cathedral!

The best time to explore Exeter Cathedral is during the late spring and early autumn months, specifically from May to September. During this period, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and leisurely walks around the cathedral's beautiful gardens and historic grounds. Summer months tend to have higher foot traffic, but the extended daylight hours provide ample time to enjoy the cathedral's intricate architecture and participate in guided tours.

Visiting in the shoulder seasons of late spring and early autumn also means you can avoid the peak tourist crowds, allowing for a more peaceful and intimate experience. Additionally, special events such as the Exeter Festival of South West Food and Drink in April and the Exeter Craft Festival in July can enhance your visit with local culture and festivities. The cathedral often hosts concerts, recitals, and special services during these times, adding a unique dimension to your visit.

For those who prefer a quieter atmosphere, weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Plan your visit in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the serene ambiance and capture stunning photographs with the soft natural light filtering through the cathedral's stained glass windows.

Conveniently explore Exeter Cathedral and plenty more captivating attractions in Exeter by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Exeter Cathedral and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Exeter has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Exeter Cathedral below.

Aside from Exeter Cathedral, Exeter is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Exeter, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Belmont Park Exeter, Underground Passages, and Riverside Valley Park.

Belmont Park Exeter is a bucket-list park and top attraction in Exeter, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 630 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Belmont Park Exeter is Belmont Rd, Exeter EX4 6SS, UK.

Another appreciated attraction in Exeter is Underground Passages. Like Belmont Park Exeter, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars among 400 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is 2 Paris St, Exeter EX1 1GA, UK.

Riverside Valley Park is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Exeter. This park and top attraction in Exeter has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 360 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of PF4J+F2, 15 West Grove Road, Exeter EX2 4LU, UK.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Exeter below.