Student life in Exeter

Exeter student life​ offers a good mix of friendly faces and historic vibrance. As a picturesque city with the reputable University of Exeter at its heart, it’s no surprise that around 30,000 students come to Exeter each year. The welcoming atmosphere of the city attracts a variety of students from more than 150 countries, making everyone feel right at home.

It’s also perfect for those who love history, with the 900-year-old Exeter Cathedral and Roman city walls in the city centre. Students don’t have to look very far to find comfortable student accommodation here, usually clustered in popular areas like Newtown and Mount Pleasant.

• 1

  Excellent transport links

  Exeter boasts walkable streets (if you don't mind a hill or two!) and efficient transport links. If you want to travel further afield, Exeter Central Station and Exeter St David’s Station will both serve you well, connecting directly to major cities like London.

• 2

  Getting out and about

  There are plenty of nature spots to escape to in Exeter, from the classic Northernhay Gardens and Belmont Park to Exmouth Beach further along. If you want to wander around town, head to Princesshay or Guildhall Shopping Centre, or snap some pictures of quirky Gandy Street.

• 3

  Lively nightlife

  Student life in Exeter wouldn’t be complete without its lively nightlife scene, which is heavily focused around the university. Popular clubs include Fever & Boutique, The Vaults, and Cavern if you’re looking for a boogie! If you're more into pubs, The Ram Bar will be the spot for you.

• 4

  History and culture

  Exeter student life is surrounded by history, with the city’s beginnings centred on a Roman fortress. You can visit spots like the Gothic Exeter Cathedral, St Nicholas Priory (the city's oldest building), and Exeter Guildhall (England’s oldest civic building) on a rainy weekend.

• 5

  Top eateries

  Exeter is full of cheap eats, making studying here a little bit sweeter. Red Panda is great for Vietnamese street food; The Dragon's Den Hotpot is the place to go for sharing experiences; and On The Waterfront will serve up handcrafted pizzas with riverside views.

• 6

  Fun freebies

  You can live Exeter student life on the cheap side if you wish, with plenty of free things to do up for grabs. For example, you can immerse yourself in culture at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, take a stroll along Exeter Quayside, or explore the Roman City Walls.

University of Exeter

As a member of the Russell Group, the University of Exeter is a leading research-intensive institution, known for its expertise in business, accounting, and life sciences. Its strong academic foundations and stunning campus attract around 30,000 students each year.