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Expat Exchange - 7 Tips for Living in Exeter
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7 Tips for Living in Exeter

By Betsy Burlingame

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Summary: Advice for people moving to Exeter or thinking about moving there.

This is a must read if you're moving to Exeter or thinking about moving there.

Exeter, a city in the southwest of England, is a vibrant and historic place that offers a unique blend of old and new. It's a city that's rich in history, with a thriving arts scene, excellent restaurants, and beautiful parks. Whether you're an expat or a digital nomad, here are seven key tips to help you make the most of living in Exeter.

1. Explore the City's Rich History

Exeter is a city steeped in history, with roots dating back to the Roman era. The Exeter Cathedral, with its stunning Gothic architecture, is a must-visit. The Royal Albert Memorial Museum is another great place to learn about the city's past. It houses a vast collection of artefacts, from local archaeological finds to exotic items from around the world. Walking around the city, you'll also come across the historic Quayside, the medieval Exeter Castle, and the Underground Passages, a network of medieval tunnels under the city.

2. Enjoy the Local Cuisine

Exeter has a thriving food scene, with a range of restaurants catering to all tastes. For a taste of local cuisine, head to The Conservatory, a popular restaurant known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients. For a more upscale dining experience, try the Michelin-starred Lympstone Manor. If you're a fan of seafood, Rockfish Exeter is a must-visit. And for those with a sweet tooth, Chococo is a local chocolate shop that's sure to satisfy your cravings.

3. Get to Know the Neighbourhoods

Exeter is made up of several distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own charm. The city centre is bustling with shops, restaurants, and historic sites. St. Leonard's is a popular residential area known for its beautiful Georgian and Victorian houses. St. Thomas has a more laid-back vibe, with a number of parks and green spaces. Meanwhile, the Quayside area is a vibrant hub of activity, with a number of bars, restaurants, and shops.

4. Take Advantage of the Green Spaces

Exeter is a green city, with numerous parks and open spaces. The Northernhay Gardens, located in the heart of the city, is the oldest public open space in England. The Riverside Valley Park is a great place for a leisurely walk or a bike ride. If you're looking for a bit of tranquillity, the Exeter University’s Streatham Campus is home to a beautiful botanical garden.

5. Embrace the Local Arts Scene

Exeter has a vibrant arts scene, with a number of galleries, theatres, and music venues. The Exeter Phoenix is a multi-artform venue that hosts a variety of performances, exhibitions, and workshops. The Northcott Theatre is another great place to catch a play or a musical. For art lovers, the Royal Albert Memorial Museum has a number of art galleries featuring works from local and international artists.

6. Get Involved in the Community

One of the best ways to feel at home in a new city is to get involved in the community. There are numerous groups and organisations in Exeter that you can join, depending on your interests. Whether it's a sports club, a book club, or a volunteer group, getting involved can help you meet new people and feel more connected to the city.

7. Make the Most of the City's Location

Exeter's location in the heart of Devon makes it a great base for exploring the surrounding areas. The city is just a short drive from the beautiful Dartmoor National Park, a perfect place for hiking and wildlife spotting. The stunning beaches of the English Riviera are also within easy reach. And if you're up for a longer trip, the historic city of Bath and the bustling city of Bristol are just a couple of hours away by train.

Living in Exeter, whether as an expat or a digital nomad, offers a unique experience. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, delicious food, and beautiful green spaces, there's always something to see and do in this charming city.

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Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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