Summer in Exeter

Summer has well and truly arrived in Exeter, and there is lots going on to keep you entertained for a weekend break in our relaxed and green city. Here is our ultimate guide to summer in Exeter.

Exeter has plenty of green and open space in which to soak up the summer days with a picnic, whilst marvelling at the surrounding historic architecture. Check out our top 10 spots for a picnic in Exeter. Alternatively there is a great choice of cafes and restaurants ready to welcome you this summer, many of which showcase locally produced food and drink on their menus - follow the Exeter Food & Drink Trail to discover some of the best Devon produce in and around Exeter!

Get that holiday feeling at Princesshay's Mojito Beach Bar in the heart of the city, open daily until 30th August for cocktails and mocktails on the beach! Throughout the summer, local street food operators will join the beach party offering delicious food to take away as well as Princesshay restaurant and cafe operators.

There is nothing like the magic of warm summer evenings under the stars watching a movie. The eagerly anticipated Big Screen in the Park returns this summer to Northernhay Gardens from 11 - 14 August with another fantastic selection of al fresco films. Arrive early to soak up the atmosphere, enjoy some summer tunes and relax with a drink or two.

There are also some fantastic outdoor theatre events such as Peter Pan at Powderham Castle, and Macbeth and Mr Stink at Killerton.

There is plenty to do indoors too - check out Exeter's award-winning museum RAMM's summer of fun programme for an exciting range of craft activities, games and historical re-enactments! Visit St Nicholas Priory between 31 July - 3 August to experience Exeter Siege Re-enactment Days, with talks about Tudor surgery and fashion, the chance to explore the Devon and Exeter Medical Heritage Trust’s collection of historical instruments, children’s activities and a picnic area in the garden, with free admission.

See our #ExploreIndoors pages for more inspiration for things to do on a rainy day in Exeter!

Summer Jazz on the Quay returns to Exeter from 27 June, offering free entertainment every Sunday until 29 August. Exeter Quayside offers the perfect setting in which to soak up the atmosphere, relax and enjoy the music.

The Exeter Street Food Market is also back, showcasing the best foodie talent from around the south west on the Quayside and in Southernhay, on summer evenings.

Head out of the city to cool off at Devon's muddiest family assault course, at the Bear Trail, near Cullompton! Even on dry days, there is guaranteed mud as you tackle the 30 obstacles! High on Haldon Hill, overlooking Exeter is the 3,500 acre Haldon Forest Park, where you can follow the family-friendly walking and cycle trails, or swing through the trees and brave the high ropes at Go Ape! Exeter is just a short journey from the coast, check out the amazing coast and countryside right on our doorstep.

For more inspiration have a read of our ultimate summer city break guide, or scroll down to see what's on in Exeter this summer.