University of Exeter
The University of Exeter is a public research university based in Devon, South West England. It is located primarily in Exeter, where it has two of its four campuses: Streatham and St Luke’s. The other two campuses are Truro and Penryn, located in Cornwall.
Streatham Campus
Streatham is the largest of the university’s four campuses, with a mix of modern and historical buildings on a country estate that overlooks the city. Nestled among woodland, parkland, lakes, and gardens. The campus is considered one of the most beautiful in the country.
In 2018, student hubs were added. These are spaces across the campus where students can gather to socialise, eat, and study. Info points at the hubs provide students with information about student life and answer questions regarding everything from their timetables to future careers.
Apart from the natural beauty, the most impressive part of Streatham would have to be the Forum, which houses a 24/7 library, a lecture theatre and retail/catering outlets. The Forum is also where you can find the university’s reception and student services.
St Luke’s Campus
This is a small campus and home to Exeter’s Medical School, the School of Sport and Health Sciences, and the Graduate School of Education. A large part of the original building was destroyed in World War II when St Luke’s was impacted heavily by a bombing raid. The effects of the bombing are clearly visible due to the difference in the colour of the rebuilt portion.
The Children’s Health and Exercise Research Centre (CHEREC) is also located at St Luke’s. When CHEREC was awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize, it became the first recipient in sport science research.
St Luke’s joined the University of Exeter in 1978 when it ceased to be an independent Anglican College.
Cultural Highlights of Exeter:
Exeter is rich in history, and here you will find everything from amazing heritage attractions and Roman roads, to castles and Iron Age settlements. At the city’s heart is Exeter Cathedral, an Anglican cathedral, and the seat of the Bishop of Exeter. One of the greatest examples of Gothic architecture, it is one of England’s great cathedrals. Built over the course of nearly 300 years, from 1112 to 1400, it features the longest uninterrupted stone vaulted ceiling in the world.
Of course, Exeter is known for more than its history and architecture. If you are a lover of the arts, you will want to experience the city’s award-winning Royal Albert Memorial Museum, which offers not only its own collections but also wonderful visiting exhibitions. The University itself also features a fine art collection of its own, spread across the Streatham campus.
If you are a fan of film, consider visiting the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum, located on the University campus. This ACE accredited public museum is completely devoted to the moving image and features memorabilia, images, and even toys from the 17th century through to today. The museum is one of the largest of its type in Britain.
Fans of theatre will find plenty to entertain them, both in independent venues like the Cygnet Theatre and larger, more mainstream ones like Northcott Theatre and the Exeter Corn Exchange.
Exeter offers a multitude of fun and interesting places to enjoy a meal out, whether you are looking for Mediterranean cuisine, seasonal food in a homey gastropub, or vegetarian delights. Some of the spots to consider when you’re looking for something delicious include:
The Conservatory
The Conservatory
has history on display in the form of a restored Tudor wall, dating back to 1600. The restaurant also respects history with a menu that includes all the English classics. The Conservatory manages a fine mix of classic cooking styles and more modern techniques that have made it one of the most popular dining spots in Exeter.
Circa
Craving seafood and steak? Circa may be the place for you! Perfectly located in Exeter city centre, you can expect Circa to provide you with delicious meals that feature local produce from the surrounding area while focusing on seasonal ingredients. They adapted to the challenges presented by COVID by offering meal kits to prepare at home.
Jack in the Green Inn
This is one of two restaurants in Exeter to have earned a “bib gourmand” rating from Michelin. This is awarded to restaurants that offer great food at affordable prices. Jack in the Green combines a traditional pub experience with excellent, locally sourced fine dining and has been voted as one of the top 20 gastropubs in Britain. Consider taking advantage of the opportunity to eat “Totally Devon,” sampling the best produce the county has to offer, across three courses.
Five Bells Inn
The Five Bells Inn is the second restaurant with a “bib gourmand” rating. A restored inn complete with a thatched roof, this is your destination for pub classics done in a fine-dining style. Families (and dogs!) are welcome to come and enjoy locally sourced, freshly prepared food paired with the best local ales and ciders, excellent wines, and soft drinks for the kids and non-drinkers.
As mentioned above, Streatham is ranked among the most beautiful university campuses in the UK. Students can take advantage of this by taking a leisurely walk around the campus. You’ll see both modern architecture and gorgeous green locations. Exploring the campus can easily consume a full afternoon.
Interested in history? Check out Rougemont Castle, also known as Exeter Castle. So named for the reddish colour it derived from the volcanic rock it sits upon, it was built to protect the city from William the Conqueror and is one of the oldest medieval buildings in the city. Today, the castle welcomes visitors seeking apartment rentals and a unique wedding venue. While you’re there, don’t forget to stroll through Northernay Gardens, the oldest public open space in England.
Of course, what might appeal most to Harry Potter fans is Gandy Street, known for its shops and cafes. This centuries-old little street is rumoured to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley.
Once you’ve had your fill of history and the arts, you’ll probably want to check out Exeter’s nightlife. Some of the best nightclubs in Exeter include:
Timepiece
For university students in Exeter, Timepiece is one of the top spots for a night out. With three floors catering to different musical tastes, and a different vibe each night of the week (such as sports on Wednesday nights), there is something for everyone.
Fever
Fever features three rooms, each uniquely different and feeling like its own venue. The Lost Garden rooftop terrace is set up like a tiki garden and is a great outdoor space to catch up with friends. The Boutique Room is adorned with velvet furniture, chandeliers, and R&B music. The Fever Room is a retro chic disco where you’ll find mirrored walls and a light-up rainbow dance floor.
Move
Uniquely situated on the Quay, Move often features a mix of house and garage music and is known for big events in a club setting. Looking for a unique experience with hard-core moshing? Then you’re looking for Move.
