A Relaxed Day in Exeter by Bus

Discover the best of Exeter on foot with this easy, self-guided itinerary. From historic streets and independent cafés to the iconic cathedral, fascinating museums and picturesque quayside, everything is within comfortable walking distance of Exeter Bus Station.

 

Start your Day out in Exeter by Bus

Walking distance: Approximately 5½–6 miles (9–10 km)

Duration: Full day (10:00am–6:00pm)

Starting point: Exeter Bus Station, Paris Street

 

10:00am – Arrive at Exeter Bus Station by bus

All local bus services from locations such as Exmouth, Sidmouth, Tiverton and Cullompton serve Exeter Bus Station. You can plan your journey here.

Begin your day at Exeter Bus Station on Paris Street.

 

Walking directions to the city centre

• Leave the bus station via the main entrance onto Paris Street.
• Turn right and walk towards the pedestrian crossing.
• Cross Paris Street and continue onto Sidwell Street.
• Continue straight as Sidwell Street becomes High Street.

Walking time: 5–7 minutes

As you make your way into the city centre, you’ll pass a variety of high street retailers, cafés and independent shops before reaching the heart of Exeter.

 

10:10am – Explore Exeter High Street

Take time to wander through Exeter’s historic shopping streets.

Highlights

• Exeter High Street
• Gandy Street’s independent boutiques
• The historic Guildhall
• Princesshay shopping quarter

Suggested time: 20 minutes

 

10:30am – Brunch at an Independent Café

Exeter has an excellent independent café scene, making it the perfect place to relax before exploring the city’s historic attractions.

Recommended cafés

Drakes (Highly recommended): Known for exceptional coffee and one of the city’s best brunch menus.

The (Tiny) Tasting Room: A cosy café serving speciality coffee and homemade food.

Suggested time: 1 hour

 

11:30am – Visit Exeter Cathedral

From Drakes, walk down Catherine Street towards Cathedral Yard.

Walking time: 3–4 minutes

One of England’s finest Gothic cathedrals, Exeter Cathedral is renowned for its stunning architecture and beautiful surroundings.

Best photography spots

• The impressive West Front from Cathedral Green
• Close-up views of the intricate stone carvings
• The north-west corner of Cathedral Green
• Looking back towards the cathedral through Exeter’s historic streets

Suggested time: 45–60 minutes

 

12:30pm – Explore RAMM

From Cathedral Green, walk up Queen Street.

Walking time: 5 minutes

The Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery (RAMM) offers an impressive collection of art, history and natural sciences, with exhibitions suitable for all ages.

Opening: Typically Tuesday–Sunday (closed Mondays)

Suggested time: 1½ hours

 

2:00pm – Discover Exeter’s Underground Passages

Walk back towards Paris Street.

Walking time: 6–7 minutes

Located almost opposite Exeter Bus Station, the Underground Passages provide a unique glimpse beneath the city streets. Guided tours last approximately 25 minutes and should be booked in advance, particularly during school holidays and peak season.

Tour duration: Approximately 25 minutes

 

2:45pm – Head to Exeter Quayside

Option 1 – Walk

From the Underground Passages, walk via South Street, following signs to The Quay.

Walking time: 15–20 minutes

Option 2 – Catch the Stagecoach C bus

If you’d prefer a shorter walk, board the Stagecoach C service from the city centre towards Exeter Quay, buses depart from either Exeter City Centre, High Street (Stop 4) or Exeter City Centre, Fore Street (Stop 14)

Leave the bus at the Malt House Bus Stop, where the waterfront is just a 3 minute walk.

 

3:10pm – Relax at Exeter Quayside

Spend the afternoon enjoying one of Exeter’s most picturesque locations, with waterside restaurants, cafés and scenic views along the River Exe.

Recommended places to eat

On The Waterfront: Popular for pizzas, burgers and riverside dining.

Rockfish: Fresh local seafood overlooking the water.

Crave: Modern British dishes alongside an excellent cocktail menu.

Suggested time: 3:10pm–5:30pm

 

5:30pm – Return to Exeter Bus Station

On foot

Retrace your steps via:

Quayside → South Street → Cathedral Green → High Street → Sidwell Street → Paris Street → Exeter Bus Station

Walking time: 20–25 minutes

Or by bus

Alternatively, catch the Stagecoach C service back towards the city centre from the Malt House Bus Stop on the opposite side of the road from where you departed the bus. Leave the bus at Exeter City Centre, High Street (Stop 3) which is a short walk from Exeter Bus Station.

Aim to arrive back at the bus station by 5:55–6:00pm for your onward journey.

 

Suggested Timetable

Time                                  Activity

10:00am                            Arrive at Exeter Bus Station

10:10am                            Explore Exeter High Street

10:30am                            Brunch at an independent café

11:30am                            Visit Exeter Cathedral

12:30pm                            Explore RAMM

2:00pm                              Underground Passages tour

2:45pm                              Walk or catch the Stagecoach C bus to Exeter Quayside

3:10pm–5:30pm               Drinks and an afternoon meal at the Quayside

5:30pm                              Walk or catch the Stagecoach C bus back to Exeter Bus Station

 

Travel Tips

A Stagecoach Day ticket offers unlimited travel on eligible services throughout the day and can provide excellent value.

Check the latest bus timetables/ plan your journey before travelling. You can also buy your ticket via the Stagecoach app for easy boarding.

Wear comfortable footwear, as each itinerary includes short walks between bus stops and attractions.

During the summer months, services to the coast can be particularly busy, so allow extra time for your journey.