Answers to Exeter History Quiz

Exeter’s Underground Passages were built to transport what across the city?

Answer: Fresh water – Once it's safe to do so, you can tour the fascinating Underground Passages from £4.50 for a child and £7 for an adult. Don’t forget to take your time and discover the heritage centre beforehand!

What was extra special about The Royal Clarence Hotel, which sadly burnt down in 2016?

Answer: Oldest hotel in Britain – The Royal Clarence, which was unfortunately destroyed by a fire in 2016, was the first building in Britain to be given the title ‘hotel!’

How many Roman coins are buried in the Seaton Hoard, at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum?

Answer: 22,000 – Exeter is rich with Roman history, some of which you can find in the Royal Albert Memorial Museum! Be sure to visit the outdoor area to view the Seaton Hoard!

What are the oldest parts of Exeter Cathedral?

Answer: Norman Towers – These parts of the magnificent Exeter Cathedral were built between 1114 and 1133! The rest of the building was built from the 1270’s!

There are paintings that are on the walls of the historic Exeter Guildhall, what member of royalty features in one of them?

Answer: Princess Henrietta Anne – The Princess was born in Exeter during the civil water, daughter of King Charles I who was executed in London in 1649!

What were the men at the Custom House on the lookout for?

Answer: Smugglers – Officials worked at the Custom House on Exeter Quay, assessing the goods brought in on trading ships. During these times men in this area were on the look-out for smugglers, to make sure nothing illegal was being brought into Exeter!

What was St Nicolas Priory originally founded as in 1087?

Answer: A religious institution – St Nicholas Priory was originally a religious institute before the building was closed in 1536 by Henry VIII, due to a dispute with the Pope. St Nicholas Priory was then renovated into a luxurious Elizabethan mansion in 1575!

How much of the Exeter Roman wall still remains through the city centre?

Answer: 70% - Luckily for Exeter, a large amount of the Roman wall still stands today! This makes it perfect for budding historians and anyone interested in our previous settlers. When it’s safe to do so, pick up a free leaflet from the Exeter Tourist Information Centre and begin our self-guided tour!

Where did the ‘House that Moved’ now on West Street, move from in 1961?

Answer: Edmund Street – Did you know that the House That Moved was originally belonged to a merchant and is a bridal shop today?

Who regularly held meetings at Tucker’s Hall?

Answer: Guild of Weavers, Fullers and Shearman – The Guild of Weavers, Fullers and Shearman of the city also regularly worshipped at Tuckers Hall! Fun fact: Tuckers Hall was often renovated and was even confiscated by a monarch during its time!

Where is St Pancras Church located?

Answer: Guildhall Shopping Centre – St Pancras Church is believed to have been one of the first Christian sites in the country and is located within the bustling Guildhall Shopping Centre. When you’re next shopping in the area, be sure to take a look around!