Exeter adventures that won't break the bank

We're all looking for family days out that are easy on the wallet at the moment. In Exeter you'll find award-winning attractions and activities that won't break the bank or are completely free! Read on to discover your next Exeter adventure...

Royal Albert Memorial Museum

RAMM, our award-winning museum, housed in a beautiful Victorian building is free to visit and takes visitors on a voyage of discovery from pre-history to the present day, and from Exeter all around the world. With a changing programme of stunning displays and prestigious loans and exhibitions from national partners, there is always something new to see. 

Exeter Red Coat Guided Tours

Whilst you've been wandering around our city, you've probably noticed smiley characters dressed in red, leading groups of excited visitors! These are the much-loved Exeter Red Coat Guides, volunteers providing FREE guided walking tours around the city. Whether you're interested in what Medieval Exeter looked like, how the Tudors lived, spooky Exeter stories or learning about the history of our glorious quayside - there's an Exeter Red Coat Guided tour for you (13 to be exact!) Find out here, our favourite reasons why you should join a tour. 

Exeter's fascinating heritage trails 

The newly-renovated City Wall Trail, Woollen Trail and Medieval Trail are great ways to discover Exeter's fascinating history and to discover parts of Exeter you may haven't already visited All three heritage trails are completely free to explore and you don't need to book! Complete them all close together or enjoy multiple days out adventuring around our wonderful city. Tell your friends and family and walk the trails again and again in years to come! Click here for reasons why you need to explore these fascinating trails

The Donkey Santuary 

At the The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth, you can explore interesting exhibits, run wild in the play area, admire award-winning gardens, enjoy scenic walks and meet hundred of donkeys that can't wait to see you! Not to mention we hear that the café is a must-visit! Admission and parking are free, though donations are welcome to help many more donkeys with troubled pasts.

Visit the beach

Our location in the heart of Devon means that we're in reach of the coast, perfect for a day out at the beach! Grab your buckets, spades and sunnies or your warm hats and scarves - a trip to the beach is an affordable day out any time of year:

• Exmouth
• Dawlish Warren
• Dawlish
• Teignmouth
• Budleigh Salterton

Teignmouth beach 

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Explore Exeter and beyond by foot

Even though Exeter is a compact city, we also have many wide open spaces for a peaceful stroll for a breath of fresh air or a hike along a trail! If you’re looking for ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Exeter, check out our 10 Wonderful Walks in Exeter blog to help you decide where to venture!

Exeter's Underground Passages

Grab a torch, fasten your helmets - it's time to embark on a journey through Exeter's Underground Passages. These fascinating passages were built to house the pipes that brought clean drinking water into Medieval Exeter. In fact, these are the only passages of its kind open to the public in Britain! Guided tours have taken place here since the 1930's. Tickets are priced at £7.50 for adults and £5 for children - a family of up to 2 adults and 3 children will cost you £22!

Hire a bike

Exploring Exeter by bike is a great way to take in all of the gorgeous sights and experience all that the city has to offer. Pop down to Saddles and Paddles on Exeter Quay for their expert advice on bikes and safety equipment, or fill out a bike hire form here. Don't forget to take a look at our Adventurous Cycles around Exeter blog for route inspiration!

Topsham Museum

Just a short drive, cycle or train from Exeter is the historic port of Topsham. This quaint, idyllic town is a must-visit with its gorgeous views, local shops and just cosiness in general. At The Strand you'll find Topsham Museum, an attraction that is free to visit, which brings the history of the town and the wildlife of the Exe Estuary to life! 

Haldon Forest 

Immerse yourself in 3,500 acres of beautiful woodland at Haldon Forest - where you can take in the spectacular sights, stroll, hike and cycle (if you take your own bike) free of charge! You only need to pay for parking, which is free if you're already a Haldon Forest member!