Exeter is a magical gateway to the lush rolling farms and wooded valleys of Devon and the rich historic legacy of the region. The cathedral city is home to some of the finest specimens of Gothic architecture found in the United Kingdom, including a historic canal, a Norman-style cathedral and a quay.
There’s much to do and explore in Exeter, and one needs a centrally located base for a well-rounded vacation. Our roundup of the top 12 cool hotels in Exeter, United Kingdom, will help you find your match from the city’s lineup of boutique hotels, family-run inns and historic residences (in no particular order)…
1. Leonardo Hotel Exeter – Formerly Jurys Inn – a trendy, hip and vibrant hotel in a location perfect for partying Millennials and Gen Zs
The Leonardo Hotelattracts business and leisure travelers with its impressive amenities and tasteful accommodations, offering 170 guest rooms, an onsite restaurant, and 7 meeting rooms on the Western Way. The location is close to Exeter’s landmarks, high-street boutiques, business districts and local hangout spots.
Leonardo offers a wide variety of rooms for singles, couples, families and large groups. The spacious accommodations are designed to accommodate more than two guests comfortably, offering additional beds and innumerable in-room appliances.
The rooms offer an expansive and well-lit workstation, plush bedding with an assortment of pillows, and ensuite bathrooms with luxe toiletries. Leonardo has a limited selection of accessible and wheelchair-friendly rooms.
2. City Gate – a cool, trendy and rustic-chic boutique hotel with Instagrammable features perfect for Millennials and Gen Zs
One of the most popular pubs in Exeter, City Gate features 20 boutique rooms, a conservatory, an al fresco dining area and a beer garden. Travelers who enjoy sampling craft beers, spirits and rare wines will feel right at home here.
Situated at a 2-minute stroll from Exeter Central Station, City Gate always proves an excellent choice for hassle-free sightseeing and day trips. The individually-styled rooms play up rich patterns and warm colors with functional furniture, including plush beds and large writing desks.
I am a huge fan of City Gate’s Sunday roasts – a divine feast on Chef Morgan’s juicy meats, fluffy Yorkies and traditional British gravy paired with handcrafted Bloody Marys.
To book, check prices or availability for City Gate
3. Mill on the Exe – a newly renovated, rustic-chic and stylish hotel where guests can enjoy a tranquil Insta-worthy location along the river banks
A characterful residence near the city center, Mill on the Exe welcomes vacationers to a tranquil setting surrounded by historical landmarks and popular attractions. This historic hotel combines old-world charm with contemporary amenities, allowing guests to immerse in period-style interiors without cramping their comfort.
The Headweir Mill House offers a selection of accommodations, including Superior Rooms, Double Rooms and Attic Rooms. All bedrooms feature ensuite bathrooms, sound insulation, flatscreen TVs, coffee and tea-making equipment and handmade Vi-Spring beds.
Some rooms open onto the stunning river while others face towards the street and countryside. The Attic Rooms are the most sought-after for their expansive river views and elaborate workstations.
4. Hotel du Vin Exeter – an upscale, stylish and hip boutique hotel located in the heart of the city
Styled as a “contemporary wonderland” by renowned publisher Alastair Sawday, Hotel du Vin commands an iconic presence in the heart of the cathedral city. This historic building has been extensively restored to incorporate modern amenities without overshadowing the charm of its walled gardens and period-style architecture.
Hotel Du Vin invites weary travelers to unwind in comfortably styled bedrooms featuring Egyptian cotton bedding, roll-top baths, and in-room appliances. The onsite Bistro du Vin specializes in farm-to-table dining, serving French cuisine with a British twist.
The hotel is quite famous for its extensive wine cellars, and guests enjoy curling up in the library with a good read and a glass of Pinot.
5. Woodbury Park Hotel & Spa – an idyllic, upscale and rejuvenating hotel featuring wellness, indoor swimming pool and sport facilities
A wellness-focused hotel promoting a balanced lifestyle, Woodbury Parkinspires travelers to be more attuned to their health and well-being with a host of amenities. Staying at this upscale estate is much like signing up for a retreat, for the experience is genuinely transformative.
Guests can hire personal trainers to work on specific goals, like cardiovascular strength or stress relief. The onsite 18-hole golf course beckons enthusiasts to play, while beginners can sign up for golf tuition. Woodbury Park is also home to the renowned Aura Spa, a luxurious wellness area for beauty and body treatments.
The accommodations exude a relaxing ambience with soft hues, minimalist furniture and enchanting views of the Devon Countryside. This hotel is an ideal base for countryside explorations, offering proximity to the Blackdown Hills and Dartmoor National Park.
6. The Globe – an elegant, charming and idyllic accommodation surrounded by an array of walking trails
The Globe is a 16th-Century riverside inn attracting adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts with its pristine location, delectable pub classics, award-winning beer and comfortable accommodations. This intimate residence offers easy access to innumerable walking trails, outdoor recreation, riverside walkways, and marketplaces.
Families and large groups can explore a selection of Double, King and Twin rooms featuring subtle colors, ensuite bathrooms, and handmade Vi-Spring beds. The rooms offer spacious and elegant seating areas with an array of self-catering appliances, including coffee and tea-making facilities.
Vacationers seeking the independence of a home-away-from-home should consider exploring the Globe’s apartment rental, equipped with comfortable furniture and smart appliances.
To book, check prices or availability for The Globe
7. Southernhay House Hotel – a unique, contemporary and elegant hotel housed in a beautiful Grade II* listed Georgian residence
A majestic Georgian townhouse listed as a Grade II heritage site, the Southernhay House is a prestigious residence with 12 bedrooms in a variety of categories. The building commands a dominating presence in the city center, but the interiors exude a friendly and free-spirited ambience, invoking a profound sense of belonging.
Nine EXE is the largest suite in the hotel, while the Luxury units are the most spacious bedrooms. Larger rooms feature king-sized beds, and the Comfy rooms are standard accommodations for two guests. Intimate rooms are the smallest options, ideal for solo travelers and corporate guests.
The onsite dining experience is quite lavish, featuring locally sourced produce and ingredients from various farms and producers across Devon.
8. St Andrews Hotel – a vibrant, historic and quirky accommodation in close proximity to local popular attractions
St. Andrews is a historic hotel comprising two Victorian mansions, converted into a hotel by Wally Nobbs and his wife, Maria, in 1969. This family-run establishment positions travelers in the heart of Exeter, offering proximity to central attractions and the breathtaking Devon countryside.
This period-style residence is home to 24 guest rooms, combining vintage interiors with modern upgrades, such as hypoallergenic bedding, flatscreen LCDs, high-speed wifi, and coffee and tea-making equipment. Guests can browse through multiple categories to find their match, including Single, Twin, Executive King, and Family.
The day at St. Andrews begins with an indulgent breakfast, a complimentary treat served in the onsite dining room.
9. Townhouse Exeter – an eco-friendly, quiet and bright accommodation offering guests a continental breakfast delivered to their room
The Townhouse experience is best-understood through the hotel’s slogan: ‘duvets & dishes’. This 150-year-old residence pampers its guests with luxuriously appointed bedrooms featuring fine linens and an assortment of gourmet treats to delight their taste buds.
Nestled in a peaceful section of the city center, the Townhouse offers a splendid location to escape the crowds and explore Exeter on foot, offering proximity to the Cathedral, Devon area and the Quay.
The hotel boasts 9 period-style bedrooms divided across 3 floors, including Single Rooms, Superior and Standard King Rooms, Double Rooms, and Twin Rooms. Guests can start their day with a hearty breakfast of freshly baked treats and enjoy rare wines at the onsite Monkey Lounge.
10. Seven Stars Boutique B&B – a cozy, bright and contemporary B&B where guests can eat, drink and shop local goods in one place
Situated in the center of Kennford Village, the Seven Stars is the beating heart of the community, offering locals and visitors a cozy spot to converse, dine, drink and shop. This traditional B&B is home to the Seven Stars Pub, Café, Boutique and Store, offering a wealth of amenities under one roof.
The B&B offers two rooms: The Postman’s Rest and the Nook. The interiors reveal an emphasis on comfort with indulgent add-ons like memory foam toppers, premium linens, blackout curtains, and freshly ground coffee.
The location is quite convenient for dividing one’s time between the historic landmarks of Exeter and planning exciting day trips to Dartmoor and Haldon Forest.
11. Brook Farmhouse – a charming, spacious and historic B&B providing guests with a beautiful garden and relaxing atmosphere
One of the best spots to immerse in farmhouse-style living in the heart of the Devonshire countryside, the Brook Farmhouse is a homely abode. I fondly remember walking through the wooded estates brimming with bluebells and birds, marveling at the starry nights, and cosying up in front of the fireplace.
This historic thatched farmhouse is the perfect countryside respite, offering spacious guest rooms, authentic British cuisine and unpretentious warmth. The bedrooms are impressively large, featuring ensuite bathrooms and well-appointed sitting rooms for entertaining guests.
I particularly liked the roomy wardrobes, and the complementary tea tray with homemade shortbread warmed my heart. Penny, the host, makes a scrumptious breakfast spread, and her homemade jams and compote are delicious.
12. Coombe Park – a serene, contemporary and unique accommodation ideal for a family or group vacation
A 200-year-old country estate set in the picturesque village of Cillington, Coombe Park beckons serenity seekers with its peaceful setting, abundant greenery and high-end amenities. Travelers anxious to escape the maddening crowds and connect with Mother Nature can explore 4-acres of wooded lands and flowery walking trails.
The guest rooms blend the old-world charm of rare antiques and period-style furnishings with smart appliances and contemporary comforts. Guests enjoy access to a heated swimming pool and multiple sports facilities, including table tennis and table football.
Slapton Sands Beach is only 2.5 miles away, while the village center and marketplace are a short stroll from Coombe Park.
To book, check prices or availability for Coombe Park
My first true adventure began as a six month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my rescued Greek street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Laos, California and the surreally beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland.
