Without wanting to sound biased, I’d like to state that Exeter is truly a very special city. It has charm and character, has a rich history yet is modern and forward thinking and whilst it is a naturally a vast place, being a city, Exeter feels more like a town in many ways. Perhaps it is this sense of community and that it is big enough to not run out of things to do or explore, whilst not feeling overwhelming that makes it somewhere that I’m quite fond of, both personally and professionally in my role as a buying agent.
Residents have so much on their doorstep, from St David's Hill to the Quayside, Princesshay shopping centre to Queen St Dining, and with the added convenience of being within close proximity to the Jurassic Coast, Exeter is surrounded by stunning countryside and boasts excellent rail and road connections. Additionally, the city offers an array of properties to suit all preferences and needs, ranging from medieval gothic townhouses and Edwardian and Georgian family homes to contemporary apartment buildings.
For families the appeal is huge, particularly because the schooling options are so strong. Exeter is renowned throughout the region for its exceptional independent schools, including Exeter School and Maynard School. There are numerous outstanding state schools located throughout Exeter and in the surrounding areas. It's worth noting that catchment areas can be competitive in certain parts of the city for specific schools.
Exeter boasts excellent transportation links, making it easy to travel to and from the city. The M5 motorway, which starts just east of the city, provides convenient access to London and the Midlands. The Devon Expressway offers a hassle-free route to the south of Devon and Plymouth, while the A30 is the main route to Cornwall and East Devon. Additionally, the train from Exeter to London takes just over two hours, and Exeter Airport offers flights to London and other destinations for those who prefer to fly.
With so much to offer, it's hard to see why anyone wouldn't want to move to Exeter.
READ MORE: 5 reasons to visit the town of Exeter in Devon
Where to live in Exeter
So, you’ve decided you might like to live in Exeter? Great. The next question is where to live in Exeter and the good news is that there are lots of wonderful places to call home.
St Leonards is a highly desirable location, known for its charming village-like atmosphere. It’s centrally located just a 10 minute walk from the city centre, but it’s also great for connections out of town too. The area is home to highly regarded schools, including Exeter School and Maynard School for Girls. The heart of the area, Magdalen Road, is home to many independent shops, pubs, and cafes, creating a strong sense of community. The properties in St Leonards are predominantly Georgian and Victorian terraced or detached houses, some of which have been converted into apartments. Lyndhurst Road and Victoria Park Road are excellent examples of these properties, with four-bedroom terraced houses commanding premium prices.
Another popular area which borders part of St Leonards is Heavitree. Heavitree is popular amongst families due to the good schools nearby and many local amenities on the doorstep together with great playgrounds, a skate park and a paddling pool for the summer. There is a real mix of properties in the area from 1930s semi-detached houses to bungalows and more modern buildings.
Another place to consider looking for a home in Exeter is Pennsylvania, a highly coveted suburb located to the north of the city, which sits atop a hill. In the upper parts of Pennsylvania, there are exclusive, large, detached houses that are rarely available for sale with Pennsylvania Crescent and Streatham Rise among the most sought-after roads in Exeter.
And lastly, St Thomas which is a popular place to live with many Victorian terraced houses occupying the streets. The area is conveniently located near schools, shops, and other amenities, including St Thomas's train station, making it well-connected to other parts of the town.
Where to live nearby
If you’re looking for a home just outside of Exeter, Topsham should absolutely be on your radar. Topsham is a bustling estuary town which exudes a charming village feel, with a high street that is brimming with character, featuring local independent shops, pubs, and restaurants.
House hunters will find a diverse range of properties, from quirky Victorian, Georgian, and Edwardian houses to Dutch-style gable houses. The most highly regarded and sought-after street is The Strand, where houses command premium prices.
