Exeter is a big university in a small campus, so it is unsurprising that some may question where Exeter students spend their time. Thankfully, it’s a student city filled with hidden gems; you just need to know where to look. The more time you spend here, the more spots you will accrue. However, if you want to jumpstart this process, this guide will help you to uncover your new favourite spots in Exeter!

Cafés in Exeter

Where do students go in Exeter?
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1. Chococo

Located in the heart of Exeter’s most aesthetic street, Gandy Street, Chococo is a quaint and cute café, specialising in all things chocolate. My favourite thing to order is the Chocolate Afternoon Tea, which is as yummy as it sounds. This café is a go-to spot for students in Exeter, whether that is for something substantial or just a coffee. 

2. The Undergrad

It’s almost a rite of passage to study at the Undergrad in Exeter. Conveniently located near a cluster of student accommodations, this café has free wifi and an extensive menu. What more could you ask for? It’s always packed with students, so pick your times wisely to ensure you get a table. They have incredible breakfasts (including pancakes!), but you can also just grab a matcha or coffee. It’s no wonder that this is a student favourite here in Exeter. 

3. Waterstones

Okay yes, Waterstones is hardly a new and indy gem, but it is a gem regardless. The café area has recently been revamped, with more seats and tables available. It’s also fairly cheap and cheerful, with discounts available if you have the Waterstones Student Card. My go-to order is a vanilla matcha. Having a fun drink to keep you company can be essential for productivity.

Bars/Pubs in and around Exter

Where do students go in Exeter?
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1. Artigiano Espresso & Wine Bar

Artigiano can do it both ways: a good coffee and a good cocktail. What’s not to love? I thoroughly enjoy the vibe of this place, it feels a bit fancier than your regular student bar. Located right in the centre of Exeter, it’s always packed with students. It sometimes hosts jazz and blues nights as well as quiz nights! This can be the perfect spot for a fun, fancy but not stupidly expensive night out.

2. The Imperial

The Imperial, or Impy as it is more commonly known as, is a Wetherspoons located near St Davids train station. It is a massive pub and a student favourite. Unsurprisingly, it is a very different vibe to the aforementioned Artigiano, but we need different spots for different purposes! It’s located close to the university so is usually a favourite for students living on campus. And it’s a Wetherspoons, so you know exactly what you’re getting: cheap food and drinks in a weirdly fancy and historical building. Hence why this is where students go in Exeter. 

3. The Old Firehouse

A pub located close to the city centre, it provides that cosy atmosphere of a local countryside pub. It’s a cider and ale pub, so definitely try the specialties. They also have the best Sunday roasts and pizzas that are a key cornerstone of the true Exeter university experience. The 10% student discount is an added bonus, of course. Check their socials to know when they are hosting live music events!

If you want to discover more night-out spots in Exeter, check out this Unifresher guide! 

Campus Spots for Exeter students

Where do students go in Exeter?
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1. Reed Hall

Described by the university as a “historic mansion in landscaped grounds”, Reed Hall and its surrounding area provide a little oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the main campus spots. The grounds are beautifully kept. In spring, it’s colourful and vibrant. There’s a little pond and plenty of wildlife. The actual hall itself is used mainly for conferences, but there is a small café in the hall, open to everyone. If you ever need a quiet second to yourself, you now know where to go!

2. Your Academic Hub

So this one depends on what you study. Your academic hub refers to the administrative centre and physical building that houses your degree. For example, if you study languages, your hub will be Queens. If you study law, your hub will be Amory. You can find out what your hub is by putting your degree title and Exeter hub into Google. In your degree hub’s building, there will invariably be a café. Say hello to your new home! As a general rule of thumb, a lot of your seminars and classes will take place in your hub, meaning that this café becomes a convenient place to sit, do some work and have a coffee whilst you’re waiting for your classes to start. It will also become a congregation spot for your classmates, so you can wait together! I spend egregious amounts of time in my hub, I dread to think how much money I’ve spent on coffees there. 

Hopefully you’ll no longer be wondering where students go in Exeter! There’s plenty to see and do and undoubtedly, you’ll find your favourite spot during your time here. 

Author

  • Hi, I'm Rachel! I'm a French and International Relations student at the University of Exeter. When I'm not studying, I'm usually reading a good fiction book or listening to pop culture podcasts! Or, you'll find me reading the guests' essays from the New York Times.

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