Exeter's Cultural Highlights

Exeter’s cultural landscape spans centuries, from the 14th-century vaulted tunnels of the Underground Passages to the Victorian architecture of the Royal Albert Memorial Museum. The city’s performing arts scene is anchored by the Northcott and Barnfield theatres, while religious and civic history is preserved in the 11th-century St Petrock’s Church and the ruins of St Catherine’s Almshouses. Further south, Topsham Museum documents the region's maritime heritage within 17th-century merchant houses. This selection highlights the city's archaeological sites, historic churches, and dedicated spaces for art and performance.

Royal Albert Memorial Museum

Housed in a landmark Victorian Gothic building, this museum features extensive collections spanning fine art, world cultures, and natural history, alongside significant archaeological finds from Roman and medieval Exeter.

Exeter's Underground Passages

These 14th-century vaulted passages were originally constructed to house the pipes that brought clean spring water into the medieval city. They remain the only system of their kind open to the public in Britain.

Barnfield Theatre

The Barnfield Theatre is a theatre in Exeter, England, located near the centre of the city on Barnfield Road, Southernhay.

Exeter Northcott Theatre

The Northcott Theatre is a theatre situated on the Streatham Campus of the University of Exeter, Exeter, Devon, England.

St Catherine's Almshouses

The ruins of these 15th-century almshouses and chapel provide a glimpse into Exeter’s medieval social history. The site was heavily damaged during the 1942 Baedeker Blitz and now stands as a preserved archaeological site.

St Petrock's Church

One of Exeter's oldest churches, this High Street landmark dates back to at least the 11th century. Its irregular floor plan and historic interior reflect centuries of architectural additions.

Topsham Museum

Located in a group of 17th-century buildings overlooking the Exe Estuary, the museum explores Topsham’s maritime history. Exhibits include a collection of river craft and a room dedicated to film star Vivien Leigh.