Exeter Red Coat Guided Tours on Exeter Quayside
1 / 10

Exeter City Wall Trail

4.8
·111 reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal tours

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Exeter Red Coat Guided Tours on Exeter Quayside

Exeter City Wall Trail

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal tours

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.8
(111 reviews)

"The Red Coat tours are FREE and highly recommended to anyone interested in knowing more about the history of Exeter!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Red Coat Guided Tours

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

Exeter City Walls

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

Gandy Street

Gandy Street

Exeter's 'Diagon Alley' with quirky shops, vintage finds, and magical vibes. Perfect for unique souvenirs and a touch of fantasy.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Free Red Coat Tours

Don't miss Exeter's free Red Coat Guided Tours! These knowledgeable guides offer fascinating insights into the city's history, from medieval tales to spooky ghost stories. They're a fantastic way to discover hidden gems and gain a new perspective on Exeter. Booking is recommended, especially for popular tours. Reddit

Walk Through History

Exeter boasts a rich history, evident in its ancient city walls and medieval architecture. Exploring these sites offers a tangible connection to the past. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking to fully appreciate the historical significance of the city. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings (Ghost Tours)
Why
Spooky atmosphere, unique stories
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Some little clips from the transit of Waddington ➡️ Exeter #redarrows #aviation #plane #avgeek #aviationlovers
@coldawg1991
8.2K likes • 149.9K views

🎯 Book Red Coat Tours Ahead

Popular Red Coat tours can fill up. Check the Exeter Corn Exchange website for booking details and schedules. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be exploring historical sites on foot, so comfy shoes are essential for enjoying the city walls and trails. TikTok

A day out exploring Exeter! 🇬🇧
@ashleighkristan
6.9K likes • 79K views
10 Magical things to do in Exeter ⤵️ 🛍Visit Gandy Street - Exeter’s Diagon Alley 🍫Enjoy magically delicious hot chocolate on a chilly day or sweet treats 🔮Gather crystals and trinkets from Crystals shop 🧣Dress like a Weasley by finding hidden vintage gems at Sobeys 🍻Drink like you’re in the Leaky Cauldron at The Turks Head 🚪Visit the iconic door at 10 Cathedral Close - doesn’t it remind you of the...
@kellyprincewright
6.6K likes • 248.7K views

👻 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. Reddit

💰 Tours are FREE!

The Red Coat Guided Tours are completely free, offering incredible value for exploring Exeter's history. Reddit

yeah 8:30 tp tickets were not the shout #exeter #timepiece
@bbyb3llie
3K likes • 29.6K views

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. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be exploring historical sites on foot, so comfy shoes are essential for enjoying the city walls and trails. TikTok

👻 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. Reddit

💰 Tours are FREE!

The Red Coat Guided Tours are completely free, offering incredible value for exploring Exeter's history. Reddit

🗺️ Explore Gandy Street

Discover unique shops and cafes on Gandy Street, often compared to Diagon Alley for its magical charm. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(111 reviews)

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

Free, informative tours
Knowledgeable and engaging guides
Rich historical insights

What People Dislike

Tours can book up

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🧭 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTok

Yes, guides are usually accommodating of photos. You'll have opportunities to pause and capture the sights as the guide shares information. Reddit

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. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful of private property and any specific signage at historical sites. TikTok

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Exeter's City Wall Trail and its associated tours are fantastic for families. The Red Coat Guided Tours are often tailored to be engaging for children, making history fun and accessible. Guides like Dave have been specifically praised for their ability to entertain younger visitors, ensuring they learn and enjoy the experience. Reddit

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. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Exeter is incredibly budget-friendly thanks to the free Red Coat Guided Tours. These tours are a highlight for many visitors, offering extensive historical insights without any cost. Reddit

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. TikTok

🚶 Solo Explorers

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of the Red Coats

Exeter's Red Coat Guided Tours are a cornerstone of the visitor experience, offering a unique and free way to delve into the city's rich past. These tours are led by highly trained volunteer guides who are passionate about Exeter's history. They cover a wide range of topics, from the city's Roman foundations and medieval fortifications to its role in significant historical events. The guides are adept at making history engaging for all ages, often sharing anecdotes and local legends that bring the past to life. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Walking Through Exeter's Ancient Walls

Exeter's City Wall Trail offers a tangible connection to centuries of history. The city boasts some of the most complete Roman and medieval city walls in England. Walking these ancient ramparts provides a unique perspective on Exeter's strategic importance throughout history. You can trace the footsteps of Roman soldiers and medieval citizens as you explore the various sections. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

Gandy Street: Exeter's Magical Lane

Step into a world of wonder on Gandy Street, often dubbed Exeter's 'Diagon Alley'. This charming street is a haven for unique boutiques, vintage shops, and quirky cafes, offering a delightful contrast to the historical city walls. It's a place where you can find everything from crystals and trinkets to vintage clothing and magical-themed treats. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

You may also like

1 of 2