Exeter is a treasure trove for any history buff with its impressive gothic cathedral, cobbled streets lined with medieval and Georgian buildings, and ancient Roman walls. It also has a lovely quayside and a plethora of impressive antique shops, galleries, and cafes, bars and restaurants, all frequented by the thriving student population who give a special buzz to the centre. The best places to stay in Exeter are well placed for discovering all this and more. We have picked out an adults only townhouse conversion, as well as a small, fun hotel in the centre of town, and a converted mill house a little further outside.

Underneath Exeter’s historic streets are a tangle of underground passages dug in in the 14th century, and spending an hour or so exploring these is one of Exeter’s unmissable attractions. Notable art galleries and museums include the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, which has an eclectic cocktail of botany, art, archaeology and geology; the fine art collection of the University of Exeter; and the Exeter Phoenix, which is a contemporary arts venue.

The city also makes a good base for anyone looking to explore further afield, or who enjoys walking and hiking. Just outside town is Halton Forest, which is a lovely woodland run-through with trails that offer beautiful views of the Devon countryside. Just beyond that are Exmoor National Park, and Dartmoor National Park.

Don't forget that this is a popular little city, so the best places to stay in Exeter are always very busy. If you're planning a trip, book well ahead to avoid disappointment.

The Best Places to Stay in Exeter

For Romantics

• Southernhay House is a trendy hotel with a grown-up vibe close to the cathedral. This Georgian townhouse now contains twelve individually designed bedrooms — our favourites have freestanding baths in huge bathrooms. 

For Great Value

• The City Gate is a small and charming choice in the heart of Exeter. There are just 14 carefully decorated rooms, featuring moody deep hues, creamy metro tiles in the bathroom, and rustic or industrial chic details. There’s a great restaurant, plus a bar, library, terrace and gardens.
• The Mill on the Exe is a smart pub with rooms overlooking the River Exe and the green countryside surrounding it — though you’re still within a pleasant stroll of the centre of Exeter. The rooms are in the converted mill house; decor is smart and contemporary, featuring wood, greys and pops of yellow.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Exeter has its own airport, Exeter International Airport, which is just a ten minute taxi ride from town. London is about two and a half hours away by train, coming direct from Paddington.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Exeter, like the rest of Devon, is busiest during the late spring and summer months, especially during the school holidays. However it's also busy in April for the Exeter Food Festival, and in autumn people head here to see the waterfowl migrations. If you’re not restricted by the school holidays the best time to visit Exeter is probably May-June, or September, when the weather is sunny and the days long, but the kids still at school.

Still not sure where to stay?

• Expand your search to include our Gurus’ recommendations for all of the best places to stay in Devon
• Refine your search by the type of accommodation you’re looking for: to the best country house hotels in Devon, Devon’s best seaside hotels or the best family hotels in Devon
• Consider some of Exeter’s neighbours; Crediton, Torquay or Dartmoor National Park
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.