Green spaces
Exeter is a refreshingly green and beautiful city, perfect for when you want a break from the buzz of city life.
It boasts more than a dozen parks, heaps of playing fields and several picturesque valley parks. A great way to explore them is via the Exeter Green Circle, a 12-mile stretch which runs around the city linking many of the green spaces together.
Built around a country estate with stunning views across Exeter, the University’s Streatham Campus is readily acknowledged as one of the most attractive green spaces in the city. Both of our Exeter campuses have won prestigious Green Flag Awards for their high standards.
Exeter’s city parks and gardens are a great way to relax and enjoy a moment of calm in the city centre. Some even enable you to take in historical culture alongside the beautiful scenery, such as the Cathedral Green.
Some other local favourites include:
Rougemont Gardens
Adjacent to Exeter Castle, an ornamental open space steeped in history, incorporating the Roman city wall.
Northernhay Gardens
An English Heritage Grade II-listed open space, dating back to 1612. It boasts views over large parts of the city, historic statues and monuments, and plays host to a number of events throughout the year.
Bull Meadow, Belmont Park, and Bury Meadow
All give the chance for relaxation and recreation just moments from the city centre.
Exeter’s valley parks are exceptional places to spend some time getting back to nature. Dispersed all around the city, they are easily accessible and offer a variety of leisurely walks, picturesque views and places to relax.
Riverside Valley Park is an easy 15-minute walk from the city centre and covers several miles. It offers some beautiful circular walks and longer walks to the Exe Estuary and the coast. Others cover farmland, meadows, orchards and woodland, housing an array of wildlife which can be enjoyed whilst taking in the views of the city and surrounding areas.
Find out more on Devon Wildlife Trust’s website.
The city’s playing fields play host to a wide range of activities and sports facilities. They include full-sized football pitches, basketball courts, cricket wickets, rugby pitches, BMX dirt jumps and play areas. Free tennis courts are also available for use within some of the playing fields. Many also include changing room facilities and toilets and are well connected to local cycle paths.