Now that exams are over for lots of you, it’s time to get out and enjoy the sun! Here are our top recommendations for your trips out.
1. Go to the beach
Living in Exeter, we’re lucky to easily get to the beach and swim in the sea in summer. With Dawlish Warren and Exmouth both being under half an hour away, this is a non-negotiable summer experience! If you want a bit more of an adventure, you can explore more of Devon’s beaches by going on a day trip to Tunnels Beaches or Goodrington Sands.
2. Picnic or BBQ
A cheap and easy thing to do in the summer is have a picnic or barbeque, and Exeter has so many lovely locations to have one. Sunset Hill Park, the Quay, and Cathedral Green are some of the best spots to set up and have a great afternoon eating, chatting and playing games.
3. Visit the Cathedral
If you haven’t already, visiting the cathedral is a must on the bucket list of any Exeter student. Free if you live locally, and if you want to know more you can get a guided tour, or even a roof tour for some incredible views of the city.
4. Quay sports
As the weather gets warmer, you’ll see lots more people getting out and giving water sports on the quay a go! You can hire a kayak, canoe, paddleboard or pedalo and get to see much more of the wildlife along the quay.
5. Walk to Double Locks
Exeter has many lovely walks, and this one only takes30 minutes! Once you’ve reached Double Locks you can reward yourself with a drink or some lunch in the pub.
6. Do a day trip to Topsham
Only 10 minutes away by train, Topsham is a great daytrip. With loads of independent shops and cafes, stunning views, walks along the estuary, and Dart’s Farm being close, there is tons to do. It’s also cheap- only costing £4.20 (or £2.75 with a railcard!) on the train - or you could even cycle there!
7. See something at Exeter Phoenix
Home of ‘creativity and culture’ in Exeter, Exeter Phoenix is a venue you must explore. With music events, workshops, comedy clubs, theatre, cinema and more, experiencing one of their events is bound to be memorable.
8. Try some food along the quay
The quay is home to some of Exeter’s most exciting and delicious food spots. Sitting with an ice cream, getting some of The Ridge’s famous sourdough donuts, or having a pizza from On the Waterfront are all perfect ways to spend a summer afternoon.
9. Jazz on the Quay
From Sunday from 25 June – 27 August (except 30 July) the Transit Shed will have jazz bands performing on the quay. Thebest part is it’s free!
10. Donkey Sanctuary
Home to hundreds of donkeys, and free to visit, the Donkey Sanctuary is the perfect activity for animal lovers. You can get the bus there and spend the day petting donkeys – what's stopping you?
