How Agatha Christie’s legacy shapes Exeter’s UNESCO City of Literature story

Exeter’s designation as a UNESCO City of Literature celebrates a long and rich relationship with storytelling, creativity, and the written word.

While our city is home to contemporary writers, historic texts and a thriving literary scene, its place within Devon also connects it to one of the world’s most beloved and celebrated authors - Dame Agatha Christie. Although Christie is most strongly associated with Torquay, her influence and legacy are deeply woven into the literary landscape that Exeter proudly champions today.

Born in Torquay in 1890, Agatha Christie grew up immersed in the landscapes, coastlines, and social rhythms of Devon. These surroundings would later shape the atmosphere of many of her novels, from quiet villages to grand houses and seemingly tranquil communities concealing dark secrets. Devon was not simply her birthplace but a lifelong source of inspiration, and Exeter, as the region’s cultural and intellectual hub, sits naturally within that wider literary world.

As a UNESCO City of Literature, Exeter celebrates storytelling in all its forms – from medieval manuscripts to contemporary crime fiction. Christie’s work, translated into more than one hundred languages and selling billions of copies worldwide, exemplifies the global power of storytelling that UNESCO recognition seeks to promote. Her novels show how strong characterisation, compelling narratives and a vivid sense of place can resonate across cultures and generations, values central to Exeter’s literary identity.

Exeter’s historic role as a centre for learning and publishing provides important context for Christie’s enduring success. The city has been associated with books and scholarship for centuries, from the medieval texts housed in Exeter Cathedral’s library to the academic and creative communities fostered by the University of Exeter. Today, the University is home to the internationally renowned Agatha Christie Archive. This remarkable archive firmly anchors Christie’s legacy within Exeter’s literary landscape. In recognition of her achievements, the University of Exeter also awarded Christie an honorary Doctor of Letters degree in 1961.

The Agatha Christie Archive offers rare insight into the author’s creative process, housing notebooks, manuscripts, letters, photographs, and personal items. Scholars and researchers from across the globe travel to Exeter to study her work, reinforcing the city’s status as a place where literature is not only enjoyed but actively researched and explored. Through this ongoing academic engagement, Christie continues to shape Exeter’s literary life long after her final novel was published.

Beyond academia, Christie’s influence can be felt across Exeter’s wider cultural scene. Crime fiction remains one of the most popular literary genres, and events, talks and festivals regularly celebrate mystery writing and storytelling suspense. Exeter UNESCO City of Literature’s commitment to accessible and inclusive storytelling mirrors Christie’s own approach – writing gripping, character-driven stories that appealed to readers from all social classes.

Literary links between Christie and Exeter don’t end there though as in 1934 a moment of frustration at Exeter St Davids station helped spark a publishing revolution. After visiting Agatha Christie at her home in South Devon, Sir Allen Lane found himself unable to buy a good book for the journey home. That experience led to the founding of Penguin Books, built on a simple but radical idea: high-quality, engaging books should be affordable and available to everyone, wherever they are. Nearly ninety years later, Exeter City of Literature has returned to this founding principle with the introduction of the Penguin Books Vending Machine at Exeter St Davids station. Installed through a partnership between Penguin Books, Exeter UNESCO City of Literature, and Great Western Railway the machine offers travellers the chance to buy a wide range of Penguin titles. Located at the station entrance, it brings books back to the very place where Penguin’s story began.

Together, Exeter UNESCO City of Literature and Agatha Christie represent a powerful literary partnership. One reflects a city dedicated to nurturing stories past, present and future; the other, a writer whose stories continue to captivate readers worldwide. Their connection reminds us that great literature often begins close to home, shaped by landscape, community, and a deep understanding of human nature.

Uncover Agatha’s Torquay – A Journey through Mystery and History

While it may not be Murder on the Orient Express, crime lovers can also travel by train along the stunning Riviera Line to Agatha Christie country on the English Riviera, where dramatic sea views meet literary heritage. Follow Christie’s footsteps in Torquay, explore coastal towns, historic harbours and beaches, and enjoy museums, walks, food and culture along the way.

Upon arrival, mystery lovers and history enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the life and inspirations of the world’s best-selling novelist – including a new tour telling the story of Agatha Christie’s extraordinary life.

In partnership with Kents Cavern, the place which inspired Agatha’s love of archaeology, visitors can enjoy an expert guided tour taking in key landmarks, including a private tour of Kents Cavern. The tour culminates with a traditional Devonshire cream tea.

For more information visit Kents Cavern or email: caves@kents-cavern.co.uk