Coach travel to Exeter

Completed in 1400, Exeter Cathedral is a beautiful medieval building with a lot of fascinating stories. Step inside and you’ll find the longest vaulted ceiling in the world – a jaw-dropping sight to this day.

Look out for the Astronomical Clock – the earliest parts of which date back to 1484. The clock shows the position of the sun in the sky and the phases of the moon. Look carefully and you might even spot a hole which was cut in the 17th century so that the Bishop’s cat could flush rats and mice out of the clock’s mechanism. 

The historic Quayside is popular with both locals and visitors for its great blend of pubs, restaurants, quirky boutiques and antiques shops. Explore the area by foot or by pedal, or take a boat trip and see it all from the water.

There are plenty of restaurants and coffee shops to choose from, variously housed in buildings ancient and modern. Local sources tell us that carrot cake fans should head straight to Mango’s café.

English wine is going through a boom right now, so there’s never been a better time to find out what all the fuss is about. If you visit between May and October, get on the Winemaker’s Tour where you’ll learn about the winemaking process, before you get the chance to try four or five different varieties. Charcuterie boards and other delicious eats are also available.

For a free walk with a difference, head to Exeter University’s Streatham Campus to follow a trail of sculptures through its beautiful grounds.

The pieces vary in shape and size, from mosaics by Elaine M. Goodwin to abstract shapes created by Dame Barbara Hepworth. Sculptures hang from trees, form fountains or are built into the sides of walls.

Go deep into Exeter thanks to a network of atmospheric network of tunnels that run underneath the city.

Starting at the cathedral, you’ll descend into a subterranean world created in Medieval times – originally dug to house the city’s lead water pipes.

Walking past the foundations of the city’s Medieval gates (which were later destroyed) you’ll then pass by the Georgian section, which was also used as an air raid shelter in World War 2. Once on the tour, you’ll get to see an illuminating short video about the tunnel’s history.

While navigating your way through dark, cold passageways may not be everybody’s idea of fun, it’s a great way to see a whole different side to Exeter.

For budget-conscious travellers, Premier Inn Exeter City Centre offers reliable comfort at great prices near the main attractions. Alternatively, the Globe Backpackers hostel provides fantastic value for students and young professionals in a historic building. If you want something special without breaking the bank, try St Olaves Court Hotel for boutique charm just steps from the cathedral.

Discover the tranquil beauty of Northernhay Gardens - England's oldest public open space, dating back to 1612, offering peaceful walks and stunning views that many tourists overlook.

Another hidden treasure is the quirky House That Moved, a medieval building that was physically relocated in 1961 to make way for a new road, now tucked away on West Street.

• London to Exeter