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Quietly tucked away, and yet within plain sight of Exeter's busy High Street ,is a rather intriguing record breaker.
Parliament Street, squeezed alongside Greggs, lays claim to being Britain's narrowest street, measuring just 25" at its narrowest point and 45" at its widest, with a length of about 50 metres.
So what's in a name? While this tiny street linking the High Street to Waterbeer Street has remained relatively unchanged since the 14th century, the most noteable difference is that it was originally named the rather apt Small Lane. Historians believe that at some point during the 17th and 19th centuries the name change occurred but it still remains a mystery as to why exactly. Many claim that it was a joke referencing the power Oliver Cromwell and the Parliamentarians held during the English Civil War, while others argue it changed name due to the 1832 Parliamentary Reform Act as the initial bill rejection saw nationwide riots that included Exeter.
A small plaque on the wall next to Greggs reads: Parliament Street – believed to be the narrowest street in the world. Width 25” increasing to 45”. However, as any good street historian will tell you that title actually belongs to Spreuerhofstraße in Reutlingen, Germany which ranges from 12.2" (31cm) at its narrowest to 19.7" (50cm)!
So the next time you're in Exeter, keep a look out for Parliament Street and take a stroll (and photo) along Exeter's very own record breaker.
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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.
Medieval cathedral. Fine example of Gothic Decorated style. Longest unbroken stretch of Gothic vaulting in the world. Image screen on West Front, Minstrels' Gallery and tombs. Expert guided tours, trails and activities for the family
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.
The Guildhall has served as the centrepiece of Exeter's civic life for more than 800 years.
Exeter Library is the largest Library in Devon and is looked after by the charity Libraries Unlimited. We believe in the unlimited potential of library services across the UK to make a positive difference to people's lives and communities through a shared love of reading and access to a wide array of information and facilities.
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