Exeter Cathedral
Exeter is our nearest city and its cathedral is a prime example of Gothic architecture, taking pride of place in the city centre, just off the High Street. Once inside, turn your gaze upwards and admire the vaulted ceiling – the longest uninterrupted medieval vaulted ceiling in the world.
Among many other interesting features are a balcony built in the mid-C14th carved with music-playing angels, known as the ‘Minstrels’ Gallery’ and the Exeter Cathedral Astronomical Clock, one of a group of famous C14th-16th astronomical clocks to be found in the West of England. The cathedral is open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm and on Sunday 11.30am to 4pm. At time of writing, admission is £7.50 for adults and £6 for seniors.
Exeter Quay
A short distance away from the city centre is Exeter Quay. With its pubs, restaurants, artisan shops and antiques centre, there’s plenty to explore. This pretty, thriving quay was first used as a port in prehistoric times until, in the C14th, the Countess Weir blocked the river to shipping. Today, you can navigate the waters yourself by hiring a kayak or pedalo (until the end of September). There are also bike rentals, the quay being a wonderful place from which to cycle down to the Exe estuary and then on to the coast.
While in Exeter, you might also decide to visit the Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery. Allow a good couple of hours for its significant and diverse collections of zoological, anthropological, artistic and archaeological finds. At time of writing, it’s free to enter (although there may be a charge for some art exhibitions). The building is designed to be accessible and is open Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm and closed bank holidays and Mondays.
Read our previous blog about a day out in Exeter.
Seaton Wetlands
Seaton Wetlands provide a fantastic way to get out into nature, with almost three miles of trails along the River Axe. Its surrounding marshlands are a haven for birds and other wildlife. Situated between Colyford and Seaton, the site can be accessed by those with mobility problems and the five bird hides and boardwalks are suitable for wheelchairs, bikes and pushchairs. Off-road mobility scooters, or ‘Trampers’ are also available to hire.
Learn about other inland waters.
Babbacombe Model Village
If ever there was a place where you could imagine yourself to be Gulliver on his travels in Lilliput, then the Babbacombe Model Village is it! Famous for its award-winning miniature gardens, the model village in Torquay showcases an amazing array of beautifully-crafted scenes from throughout the ages. All British life is here, and often depicted in a comical way! Admission for adults is £15.65, with seniors paying £14.75. If you enjoy seeing the world in miniature, you could also visit Pecorama, a heaven for model railway enthusiasts in East Devon.
Bridwell Park and Orangery Cafe
A short drive from Forest Glade is the village of Uffculme, where Lord Ivar Mountbatten fairly recently (2015) opened up his home at Bridwell to the public. Whilst the house is open only to those who hire it for special events, the charming wider parklands (where deer roam freely) and Orangery Cafe are open to all. The café is a serene place to enjoy a quiet drink and a bite to eat. Barista coffees, speciality teas, tray bakes and lunches are all available. Dogs on leads are welcome too.
Of course, when it comes to historic houses and gardens, National trust properties are always great places to explore and learn about local history. Knightshayes and Killerton are local favourites.
Thelma Hulbert Gallery
Honiton’s Thelma Hulbert Gallery is an award-winning public art gallery run by East Devon District Council. It hosts a programme of contemporary arts and crafts exhibitions. Until 29th October, they’re hosting an exhibition by Ingrid Pollard, 2022 Turner Prize nominee. Check their exhibitions website for the latest displays and events. It’s free to visit and you can park right outside in the large public car park.
Check out our blog on Arts and Crafts in Devon.
Bicton Park Botanical Gardens
A firm family favourite during the school holidays, Bicton Park is open all year and so a term-time visit is perfect. Roam the 64 acres of C18th botanical gardens to find rare plants from all over the world. The magnificently beautiful Palm House is our favourite part of the gardens; it’s 20 years older the palm house at Kew. There’s also an interesting museum, garden centre, restaurant and giftshop. Adults £13.95, Concessions £12.95.
Find more gardens to visit in the area.
We try to ensure all information is correct at time of writing, but as always, please check opening details with an attraction before visiting.