
Exeter City Wall Trail
Explore Exeter's rich history by walking its ancient city walls and joining free, expert-led Red Coat Guided Tours.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours

Exeter City Wall Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Exeter's rich history by walking its ancient city walls and joining free, expert-led Red Coat Guided Tours.
"The Red Coat tours are FREE and highly recommended to anyone interested in knowing more about the history of Exeter!"

🎯 Book Red Coat Tours Ahead
Popular Red Coat tours can fill up. Check the Exeter Corn Exchange website for booking details and schedules.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be exploring historical sites on foot, so comfy shoes are essential for enjoying the city walls and trails.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Red Coat Guided Tours
Free, informative tours led by passionate guides revealing Exeter's hidden history and secrets. A must-do for any visitor!

Exeter City Walls
Walk along sections of the ancient Roman and medieval city walls, offering unique perspectives and historical insights.

Gandy Street
Exeter's 'Diagon Alley' with quirky shops, vintage finds, and magical vibes. Perfect for unique souvenirs and a touch of fantasy.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Free Red Coat Tours
Walk Through History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Red Coat Tours Ahead
Popular Red Coat tours can fill up. Check the Exeter Corn Exchange website for booking details and schedules.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be exploring historical sites on foot, so comfy shoes are essential for enjoying the city walls and trails.
👻 Consider a Ghost Tour
Experience Exeter's darker side with a Red Coat ghost tour. It's a fun and chilling way to learn local legends.
💰 Tours are FREE!
The Red Coat Guided Tours are completely free, offering incredible value for exploring Exeter's history.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Red Coat Tours Ahead
Popular Red Coat tours can fill up. Check the Exeter Corn Exchange website for booking details and schedules.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be exploring historical sites on foot, so comfy shoes are essential for enjoying the city walls and trails.
👻 Consider a Ghost Tour
Experience Exeter's darker side with a Red Coat ghost tour. It's a fun and chilling way to learn local legends.
💰 Tours are FREE!
The Red Coat Guided Tours are completely free, offering incredible value for exploring Exeter's history.
🗺️ Explore Gandy Street
Discover unique shops and cafes on Gandy Street, often compared to Diagon Alley for its magical charm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Exeter's free Red Coat Guided Tours, praising the guides' knowledge and passion for bringing the city's history to life. The accessible sections of the ancient city walls offer a fascinating glimpse into Exeter's past. While the tours are a major draw, some visitors note that booking in advance is wise due to their popularity.
"Been on a number of these tours now.
All have been very thoughtful and informative about Exeters history.
The are FREE and highly recommended to anyone interested in knowing more about the history of Exeter ✅❤️🙌🙌🙌"
Nathan Holmes
"I went on several of the free guided tours in my last few weeks of university. I learnt so much about the city I had lived in for 4 years during university, it really gave me a new view on Exeter for the better. I wished I had done these at the beginning rather than the end as there are lots of hidden secrets in Exeter that you just have to discover for yourself with these tours :)"
Charles britton
"The Medieval Tour with Mrs Jackie (totally free) was lovely! She brought us through the most iconic places in Exeter from the city center to the Quay with very clearly explanations. Very recommended!"
Marco Neri
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Exeter city center is easily accessible by train, with Exeter St Davids and Exeter Central stations serving the city. The city walls are spread throughout the center, so you can start your exploration from various points. Many visitors arrive by car, with several car parks available, though they can be busy.
Yes, Exeter has a good bus network that can take you to different parts of the city. However, the best way to experience the city walls is often by walking, as many sections are best appreciated on foot.
While some sections of the city walls are pedestrian-only, there are designated cycle paths in and around Exeter. It's advisable to check local cycling maps for routes that complement your city wall exploration.
Using a good map or a navigation app on your phone is recommended. The Red Coat Guided Tours also provide excellent orientation and historical context as you explore.
Exeter offers park and ride services from various locations on the outskirts of the city, which can be a convenient and cost-effective way to avoid city center traffic and parking fees.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking along the accessible sections of the Exeter City Wall Trail is generally free. You can explore at your own pace without needing to purchase tickets for the walls themselves.
The Red Coat Guided Tours in Exeter are famously free! This makes them an incredibly valuable way to learn about the city's history and discover its secrets.
You can find information and booking details for Red Coat Guided Tours on the Exeter Corn Exchange website. It's recommended to book in advance, especially for popular tours like the ghost tours.
The city walls are part of the public realm, so they are generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific attractions or museums along the route may have their own opening times.
While the walls themselves are free to access, some individual historical sites or attractions within Exeter may have their own admission fees. It's best to check the specific sites you plan to visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The best way is to join a free Red Coat Guided Tour for historical context and hidden stories. Alternatively, explore independently with a map, focusing on sections like the Roman walls and medieval gates.
The full trail can be extensive. A guided tour typically lasts 1.5-2 hours. Exploring independently, you can spend anywhere from a couple of hours to a full day depending on how much you want to see.
Key points include the Rougemont Castle area, the medieval gates like South Gate and West Gate, and sections of the original Roman wall. The Quay also offers historical insights.
Yes, many parts are suitable for children, especially when accompanied by an adult. The Red Coat tours often cater to families, making history engaging for younger visitors.
You can expect detailed information on Exeter's Roman origins, medieval history, the Civil War, and even local ghost stories. Guides are passionate and knowledgeable.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for panoramic views from elevated sections of the walls, architectural details of the medieval gates, and charming streets like Gandy Street. The Cathedral area also offers great photo opportunities.
Yes, guides are usually accommodating of photos. You'll have opportunities to pause and capture the sights as the guide shares information.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the historic atmosphere of Exeter. Golden hour can be particularly beautiful.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful of private property and any specific signage at historical sites.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide cityscapes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for tighter streets.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on sections of the wall that are easily accessible and offer interesting sights. The Red Coat tours, especially the Medieval Tour, can bring history to life for kids with clear explanations and engaging stories. Gandy Street also offers a fun diversion with its quirky shops, providing a different kind of excitement for younger explorers.
💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond the tours, walking the city walls is a free activity. You can pack a picnic to enjoy at scenic spots along the trail, saving on dining costs. Gandy Street, while full of unique shops, also offers affordable trinkets and treats if you're looking for a small souvenir.
🚶 Solo Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Red Coats
Visitors consistently praise the depth of knowledge and enthusiasm of the Red Coat guides. Many reviewers mention learning things they never knew about Exeter, even after living there for years. The ghost tours, in particular, are highlighted as a fun and spooky experience, perfect for an evening exploration. Booking in advance is recommended, as these popular tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Booking Your Free Tour
To secure your spot on a Red Coat Guided Tour, it's best to visit the Exeter Corn Exchange website. They manage the bookings and provide schedules for various tours, including themed walks like the Medieval Tour or the Ghost Tour. This ensures you don't miss out on this invaluable historical insight into Exeter.
Walking Through Exeter's Ancient Walls
Key sections of the walls are accessible and offer excellent viewpoints. Look out for the impressive Roman stretches, particularly around the Rougemont Castle area, and the well-preserved medieval gates like South Gate and West Gate. These structures are not just historical relics but also offer a glimpse into the defensive architecture of bygone eras. Comfortable footwear is essential, as you'll be covering ground to appreciate the full extent of these fortifications.
Discovering Hidden Sections
While some parts of the wall are more prominent, exploring the trail can lead you to discover lesser-known sections and hidden historical markers. The Red Coat Guided Tours are excellent for uncovering these hidden gems and understanding the context of each part of the wall. Combining an independent walk with a guided tour can provide a comprehensive understanding of Exeter's defensive past.
Gandy Street: Exeter's Magical Lane
The atmosphere on Gandy Street is truly special. It's the perfect spot to pick up a unique souvenir or enjoy a magical hot chocolate on a chilly day. The shops themselves are often as interesting as their wares, with many offering a whimsical and enchanting shopping experience. It's a must-visit for anyone looking for something a little different and a touch of fantasy in their travels.
A Hub for Unique Finds
Whether you're searching for a specific crystal, a vintage gem, or simply want to soak in the unique ambiance, Gandy Street delivers. It's a vibrant part of Exeter that adds a layer of modern charm and individuality to the city's historical tapestry. Don't miss the chance to explore its nooks and crannies and discover your own magical find.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit