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We know the school holidays can be an expensive time, so we have put together our top 15 ideas for things to do in Exeter this summer, completely free! Whatever the weather (although we're hoping this wonderful Devon sunshine lasts the whole summer!), there is plenty going on to keep everyone entertained. Plus there are some great free family events in Exeter over the summer holidays.
1. Visit Exeter’s Royal Albert Memorial Museum and go on a voyage of discovery from pre-history to the present day through 16 galleries of displays. With free entry & summer holiday activities, workshops and drop-in sessions, there is something for all ages.
2. Visit the library... Exeter Central Library runs regular family activities for all ages and is easily accessible from the city centre.
3. Join the famous Red Coat Guides on a walking tour of Exeter, to discover more about the fascinating and turbulent history of the city. Tours run daily throughout the year, with a wide range to choose from. It is advisable to book in advance, tours last approx. 90 minutes.
4. ...Or if you prefer to do things at your own pace, follow one of Exeter’s self-guided heritage trails – kids can solve puzzles and quizzes along the way.
5. On warm days, pack your swimming stuff and head to Heavitree Park, which has paddling pools in which to play and cool down, or St Thomas Splash Pad, with water fountains, tipping buckets and cannons for plenty of water fun!
6. Visit the Custom House Visitor Centre on Exeter’s Quayside to learn more about the history of the Quayside through fascinating displays, exhibits and a short film - ‘Exeter, 2,000 years of history’.
7. Visit the bird hides at Bowling Green Marsh along the Exe Estuary Trail between Topsham and Darts Farm - perfect for a short, fairly flat scoot or cycle. Make your way to Darts Farm to pick up picnic bits and enjoy a play in their outdoor play area.
8. Film fans, head to the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum for interactive exhibits for children, or see a favourite film as part of the Odeon or Vue Kid’s Club – whilst not strictly free, tickets are still relatively cheap per person. There are kids screenings every Saturday and Sunday morning, plus every day during the school holidays.
9. Find space to run free! Head out of the city to Haldon Forest Park, where themed walking and cycling routes are well-signposted, or follow special trails aimed at families with small children. You will also find family-friendly marked trails at Stoke Woods, an old forest dating back to the Roman times on the edge of Exeter, or visit one of five Valley Parks in the city, all great for walking, kicking a football around or enjoying a family picnic.
10. Take a family bike ride following the route of the Exeter Canal... this flat, traffic-free route is great for families, plus you can stop off at the Double Locks pub for refreshments in the large, waterside beer garden with an outdoor play area!
11. Visit the Donkey Sanctuary near Sidmouth, to meet over 500 donkeys and enjoy interactive activities in the fantastic indoor visitor centre.
12. Visit St Nicholas Priory on a Sunday, 12 - 4pm to discover more about the Tudors, with regular free events which ring this historic building to life.
13. Head to the beach! Exeter is just a 20 minute journey by car, or a very scenic rail journey to the coastal resorts of Exmouth and Dawlish.
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14. Follow the Paws Around Exeter Trail to discover 20 large colourfully decorated sculptures of dogs across the city!
15. See the city come to life at a free event or shop at a local market! See the full list of free events in Exeter this summer here.
Scroll down for more free attractions in Exeter.
Number of results: 72
, currently showing 22 to 42.
SEATON
Running 155km from Exmouth in Devon to Studland in Dorset is the Dorset and East Devon Coast World Heritage Site, selected by UNESCO because of its outstanding earth science interest.
Newton Abbot
This 4 hectare lake supports a wealth of water birds and an excellent assemblage of dragonflies and damselflies; 19 species have been recorded here including rarities.
Exeter
The Exe Estuary is of international importance for wintering waders and wildfowl, supporting 1000s of birds. One of the best opportunities to view the wildlife of the estuary is at the the RSPB's two nature reserves.
Exeter
The site of Northernhay Gardens was quarried in Roman times for stone from which to build the adjacent city walls.
Exeter
Popular with birdwatchers, walkers and picnickers, Belle Isle Park is a quiet riverside park easily accessible by foot or bicycle from Topsham Road or the Exeter Quay.
Topsham
Managed by the RSPB, Bowling Green Marsh nature reserve is an area of coastal grazing marsh alongside the River Exe Estuary, on the outskirts of Topsham.
Seaton
Nearly 4km of level trails and boardwalk through beautiful marshland and reed beds alongside the river Axe, home to an abundance of wildlife.
Exeter
This reserve, part of the Exe Estuary SSSI, is sandwiched between the river Exe and the Exeter ship canal.
Holcombe, Teignmouth
A small cove situated at the base of the cliffs between Teignmouth and Dawlish. A small isolated beach used primarily by local residents.
Seaton
Holyford Woods Local Nature Reserve is a beautiful woodland, nestled in a picturesque valley near Seaton.
Exeter
Grade II listed in the National Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, Rougemont Gardens were originally part of the defences of Exeter Castle. They were converted into gardens in the late 18th century, and purchased by the city council in 1912…
Exeter
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Exeter city centre then this is a great place to come and walk your dog and explore the woods following the two way-marked trails.
Exmouth
Sandy Bay in Exmouth is a half-mile long privately owned beach which is sheltered and ideal for families. The beach is good for swimming and water sports, and there is a lifeguard during the summer months.
Teign Valley
Situated to the north of the Teign Estuary, Little Haldon is particularly important for its large areas of lowland heath. Little Haldon is rich in wildlife and comprises two small areas of lowland heath.
Sidmouth
Fire Beacon Hill is an area of lowland heath, which offers you a birds eye view of the surrounding countryside.
Axmouth
If you're thinking of walking parts of the coastal path then the route from Axmouth to Lyme Regis is a good starting point with great views
Exeter
Ever wondered where can you see a Snow Leopard or Peacock in Exeter? The impressive University of Exeter Streatham campus, just a twenty minute walk from the High Street, hosts 39 sculptures, some indoors and some in the beautiful grounds.
The Old Library, Exeter
There are numerous sculptures situated in this unique setting both in the open and in university buildings. The walk includes sculptures by Dame Barbara Hepworth, Peter Randall-Page and Paul Mount together with other renowned artists.
Exmouth
Exmouth Local Nature Reserve consists of tidal sand & mud at the South end of Exe Estuary – it’s one of the biggest Nature Reserves in Devon
Streatham Drive, Exeter
The University of Exeter’s Streatham campus is set within 300 acres of botanical gardens. Starting in September 2010 the Event Exeter team have been given the opportunity to offer guests a range of seasonal tours for all groups and sizes.
EXETER
The Exeter Green Circle is a 12 mile walking route which takes you around Exeter. It caters for those of all walking abilities.
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