There are plenty of family attractions in Exeter, rainy day activities and fun, interactive ways of exploring the city. The city also offers plenty of green space in which to explore and run free.
The Royal Albert Memorial Museum is a good place to start, with 16 galleries of displays taking families on a voyage of discovery from pre-history to the present day and from Exeter all around the world. With a changing calendar of touring exhibitions and regular events engaging children of all ages, there is always something to do, whatever the weather!
For children aged over 5 years, Exeter Underground Passages are a must visit - take a guided tour of dark, narrow passages beneath the city's streets. Originally built to house fresh water pipes, the Passages have had many uses over the years, and the guides have some fascinating stories to tell. Older children will be enthralled by the stories of Exeter's turbulent history on a Red Coat Guided Tour, free daily walking tours around Exeter. If you prefer to explore at your own pace, pick up a free leaflet at Exeter Visitor Information & Tickets for a series of self-guided heritage trails, with quizzes and puzzles to solve along the way.
Visit Exeter Cathedral to marvel at the world's longest stretch of unbroken gothic vaulting. Family activities and workshops are held during school holidays, and throughout the year free activity backpacks are available to borrow from the entrance desk, designed to help children become Cathedral explorers using binoculars, magnifying glasses and compasses. Children aged 8+ can join a guided tour of the Cathedral's roof space, a thrilling experience!
For fresh air and outdoor activities to let off steam, head to Exeter's Quayside. Hire a bicycle or canoe from Saddles & Paddles to explore the Exeter Canal, have a go at climbing at the Quay Climbing Centre, or follow the well-signposted paths beside the river to one of the many waterside eateries here for a refreshment pit stop! If you love getting muddy, head to the Bear Trail, an award-winning family assault course designed to get everyone enjoying good old-fashioned fun in the great outdoors – whatever the weather.
On rainy days, there are plenty of indoor activities in Exeter, including the south west's first board game cafe, indoor soft play at Bear Feet and Pop Up Playcafe, tenpin bowling, a great choice of cinemas, and indoor sports and swimming at the city's leisure centres.
On the outskirts of Exeter, Crealy Great Adventure Park is one of the south west's top attractions, with rides and attractions for all ages, or visit Powderham Castle for themed events, fascinating castle tours and the deer park safari. Meet hundreds of donkeys at the Donkey Sanctuary, near Sidmouth, with free entry 365 days a year!
Exeter is perfectly located for young adventurers, surrounded by miles of countryside and close to the coast, with fantastic beaches within easy reach. Nearby Haldon Forest Park has a large network of themed family walking and cycling trails, with spectacular views over Exeter and out to sea.
See below for a selection of family attractions and activities in Exeter. Check out our top 5 family fun activities in Exeter and 10 free summer activities for families.
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