Banish those post-Christmas and winter blues with our guide to what you can explore around Exeter for free in January. From a trip to the museum and guided tours to exploring the great outdoors and a photo exhibition on your doorstep, these budget friendly ideas are are a fun way to start the new year and without breaking the bank.

Here's our top free actitivites to kick start 2025...

Red Coat Guided Tours

There's no better way to explore our wonderful city than on a free, Red Coated Guided Tour. Discover hidden secrets that even the locals don't know about and see for yourself why Exeter is one of the most beautiful, and historically significant, cities in England. Tours run daily, except Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM)

Home to stunning displays, revealing Devon and Exeter’s rich history and global connections, fabulous World Cultures galleries and exhibitions, there's much more to RAMM (Royal Albert Memorial Museum) than you might imagine. With three special exhibition spaces, its changing programme means there is likely to be something different to see every visit.

Earth photo exhibition at Haldon Forest Park

The great outdoors is calling and with Haldon Forest Park on your doorstep it's the perfect place for endless activities and miles of different trails set amongst the stunning forest and offering fantastic countryside views. Until the 19th March you've also got the opportunity to experience Earth Photo, an international competition and exhibition created by Forestry England and the Royal Geographical Society. Step among towering trees to explore 30 of the 124 final shortlisted images by photographers from around the world, reflecting on issues affecting the climate and life on our planet.

Tour of the historic Devon and Exeter Institution

A thriving independent library and educational charity in the heart of the city, the Devon and Exeter Institution throw open their doors for a free tour public tour every Wednesday, from 1pm to 4pm. There's no need to book and you'll gain a fabulous close-up look at the two galleried libraries and collections which lie at the heart of the Institution. Full of history, the Institution itself occupies a Medieval building, originally owned by Exeter Cathedral.

Custom House Visitor Centre

Located on Exeter's historic quayside and occupying one of the most historic buildings on the waterfront, the Custom House Visitor Centre houses lively displays, illustrations and artefacts which bring the history and development of Exeter’s Quayside to life. Throughout the year the Custom House hosts a variety of arts, cultural events and activities and it's also the starting point for the ‘Exeter Historic Quay’ tour by Exeter’s Red Coat Guides.

Exeter Guildhall

Serving as the centrepiece of Exeter's civic life for more than 800 years, Exeter's Historic Guildhall is not just an ancient monument but a structure of outstanding architectural interest. While it's still in use for a variety of civic functions, as well as weddings and civil ceremonies, you can check the Guildhall opening times as it's well worth a visit to experience a proud piece of Exeter's history up close and in person.

Visit our What's On page for a complete guide to events in January and 2025.

Related

Exeter Red Coat Guided Tours
Walking Tour
Exeter Red Coat Guided Tours

Find out more about the city’s turbulent history on a free guided walking tour with the Red Coat Guides, running daily throughout the year.

Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery - RAMM
Museum
Royal Albert Memorial Museum Queen Street Exeter

Exeter’s world-class museum has stunning displays and galleries, fabulous exhibitions and modern amenities. The displays reveal Devon and Exeter’s rich history and global connections. Exotic animals, birds and insects delight children and the World Cultures galleries display stunning items from all over the world.

Devon & Exeter Institution
Arts & Heritage
The Library of Devon & Exeter Institution

The Institution occupies historic premises at the heart of Exeter in the Cathedral Close. Adapted from what was once a house belonging to the Courtenay family, the library of the Institution is housed in two elegant Georgian rooms which provide space for research and reading, educational activities, cultural events and lectures.

Custom House Visitor Centre
Heritage/Visitor Centre
Exeter Custom House (c) Philip Vile Photography

The Custom House Visitor Centre is in the centre of Exeter's historic quayside & occupies one of the most historic buildings on the waterfront.

Exeter Historic Guildhall
Historic Site
Exeter Guildhall interior

The Guildhall has served as the centrepiece of Exeter's civic life for more than 800 years.

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