Exeter's Historic Quayside

The Exeter Quayside is an excellent place to relax and stroll around. You can visit the Customs House dating back to 1681 which is one of the earliest brick buildings in Exeter. The cannons outside the Customs House have never been fired. There are other old buildings and warehouses dating back to Charles II. Around the quay area you will also come across the antique, gift and craft shop. There are pubs, cafés and food outlets nearby for refreshments.

Exeter Quay was once an international port for the export of woollen cloth, but by the 13th century ships could no longer reach Exeter by river, so a canal was constructed around 1563. This canal linked the city to the estuary again and the port trade began to prosper once more.

There are walks along the canal side and footpaths down to the locks. The Butts Ferry can also be found at the Exeter Quayside. This manually operated ferry links the quayside to the opposite bank.

Menu..Top