A small city surrounded by big countryside, Exeter has for many centuries been the cultural, economic and spiritual hub of Devon. The city's history predates the Roman invasion, a history reflected in attractions including the unique Underground Passages, remaining sections of the Roman Wall, a magnificent cathedral and the revitalised Quayside area. Wherever you book a hotel in the city, these attractions will be within easy reach. Exeter Cathedral is surrounded by a maze of cobbled streets lined with medieval and Georgian buildings while a new shopping centre provides further opportunities for souvenir and gift buying. As well as making the most of city attractions, head out to nearby Powderham Castle and the windswept wilds of Lorna Doone's Exmoor. When the sun shines, the World Heritage Jurassic Coast is also within easy reach with its opportunities for swimming and sunbathing, surfing and snorkelling, kayaking and sailing. Exeter is known as the foodie capital of the South West so, at the end of a busy day, it's easy to satisfy your hunger pangs. Wherever your hotel in Exeter is located, there's sure to be a good restaurant a short walk away.
At the heart of Exeter is the cathedral, an excellent example of Gothic architecture while on a sunny day, the Cathedral Green is ideal for a family picnic. The Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery has both permanent exhibitions covering local history and artists as well as a changing programme of national collections. Always an intriguing highlight of any visit to Exeter is the Underground Passages. Take a guided tour to find out more about this one-of-a-kind subterranean network that was originally built to bring piped water to the medieval city. Much of Exeter's wealth was founded on the back of the 17th and 18th-century wool trade, a legacy that can be explored in the Custom House. This Quayside visitor centre also has ornate ceilings and a sweeping staircase to admire. Fans of Harry Potter will definitely want to take a stroll along Gandy Street. According to locals, this provided the inspiration for Diagon Alley. J K Rowling was a graduate of Exeter University.
There are plenty of charming neighbourhoods and streets in Exeter where you'll find hotel deals at eDreams. One of these is the historic Quayside. If you check into cheap hotels here, you are just 15 minutes on foot from the city's historic heart while having plenty to do on the doorstep. The picturesque Quayside is full of waterside pubs, restaurants and shops. While the remains of Exeter Castle are not open to the public, the Castle Quarter is steeped in history and home to the Royal Albert Memorial Museum. Gandy Street in the quarter is full of independent gift and jewellery shops. Nearby is Northernhay Gardens, one of the first public gardens in England and a good area to choose if you want a totally tranquil stay when you book a hotel in Exeter. The city's West Quarter has strong historic links to the wool trade. From here, you can enjoy splendid views of the Exe Valley from the top of the City Wall while Fore Street is a place of nooks and crannies packed with dozens of little shops and cafes. Whether you are enjoying a city break or want a base for exploring Exmoor, use the eDreams easy-to-use filters to search for the perfect hotel in Exeter.