Exeter’s Vibrant Bar Scene: From Historic Pubs to Craft Beer Havens
Exeter, a city steeped in history with its magnificent cathedral and Roman walls, also boasts a surprisingly dynamic and diverse bar scene. Whether you’re a local looking for a new haunt or a visitor eager to explore, Exeter offers a fantastic range of drinking establishments. From traditional pubs echoing centuries of stories to modern craft beer bars buzzing with innovation, there’s something for every taste and occasion. As a local who’s explored every nook and cranny, I’m thrilled to share my insider guide to the best bars in Exeter, UK.
The Traditional Pub Experience: Stepping Back in Time
Exeter is renowned for its wealth of historic pubs, many of which have been serving ale for generations. These establishments are more than just places to grab a drink; they are living pieces of history, offering a warm, convivial atmosphere and often serving up delicious, hearty food.
The Old Fire House (The ‘Bierkeller’)
You simply cannot talk about Exeter’s pubs without mentioning The Old Fire House, affectionately known by locals as the ‘Bierkeller’. Located right in the heart of the city centre, just off Sidwell Street, this is an institution. Its claim to fame is its incredible pizzas, which are legendary, but it also boasts an impressive selection of real ales and ciders. The atmosphere is always buzzing, especially on live music nights. It’s a sprawling venue with different rooms, each with its own character, and a lovely beer garden for those warmer evenings. Don’t miss trying one of their famous pizzas – they’re massive!
The Ship Inn
Tucked away down a cobbled alleyway off Fore Street, The Ship Inn is a true hidden gem. This quirky, historic pub feels like stepping back in time. With its low ceilings, ship memorabilia adorning the walls, and a fantastic selection of real ales, it’s the perfect spot for a quiet pint and a chat. It’s a place where you’ll find locals and students alike, all drawn to its authentic charm. They often have a good selection of local ciders too, which is a must-try in the West Country.
The Fat Pig
For a more contemporary take on the traditional pub, The Fat Pig on Fair Street is a brilliant choice. While it retains a cosy, welcoming feel, it offers a more refined experience, focusing on quality, locally sourced food and an excellent, rotating selection of real ales and craft beers. They are passionate about supporting local producers, so you’ll find some unique tipples here. It’s a great spot for a relaxed lunch or an evening drink after a day of exploring the city.
The King’s Arms (St Thomas Churchyard)
Nestled in the tranquil St Thomas Churchyard, just across the river from the cathedral, The King’s Arms is a delightful, unassuming pub. It’s a favourite among those in the know, offering a peaceful escape from the city bustle. They serve a good range of well-kept real ales and often have a traditional pub menu. The location itself is picturesque, making it a perfect stop if you’re walking along the river or visiting the Quay.
Craft Beer and Cocktail Havens: Modern Flavours for Discerning Tastes
While Exeter cherishes its heritage, it also embraces the modern craft beer and cocktail culture. Several bars have popped up in recent years, offering exciting new flavours and experiences for those looking for something a little different.
The Bottle Shop
Located on Bartholomew Street West, The Bottle Shop is a must-visit for any craft beer enthusiast. This place is exactly what it says on the tin – a fantastic bottle shop that also happens to have a brilliant bar area. They stock an incredible array of craft beers from around the world, as well as a superb selection of local brews. You can choose a bottle to drink in or to take away. The knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer recommendations, and they often have a few beers on tap too. It’s a place that truly celebrates beer in all its forms. If you’re interested in the world of beer, their insights are invaluable, and you can learn more on dropt.beer’s insights and news blog.
Exeter Brewery Taproom
For the freshest possible pint, head to the Exeter Brewery Taproom. Situated within the brewery itself on Marsh Barton Road, this is where the magic happens. They serve their own range of delicious Exeter Brewery beers, straight from the source. It’s a no-frills, authentic brewery tap experience, perfect for those who appreciate the craft and want to taste the beer in its purest form. Check their opening times, as they can vary.
The Crafty Pint
A popular spot for locals and visitors alike, The Crafty Pint on Bartholomew Street offers a curated selection of craft beers on tap and in bottles. It’s a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, ideal for catching up with friends. They often have tasting flights available, allowing you to sample a few different brews. The staff are friendly and passionate about craft beer, making it a great place to discover new favourites.
The Alchemist Bar
If cocktails are more your speed, The Alchemist Bar on Queen Street is an excellent choice. This stylish bar offers a sophisticated setting for enjoying expertly crafted cocktails. Their menu is extensive, featuring classic concoctions and innovative new creations. The bartenders are true artists, and the attention to detail is evident in every drink. It’s the perfect place for a pre-dinner drink or a special occasion.
The Vaults Bar & Cellar
For a unique underground experience, head to The Vaults Bar & Cellar on Bartholomew Street. This bar is set within the historic cellars of the city, offering a distinctive ambiance. They specialise in craft beers and cocktails, with a focus on quality and creativity. The exposed brickwork and atmospheric lighting create a memorable setting for an evening out. It’s a great place to discover new drinks and enjoy the historic surroundings.
Bars with a View and a Vibe: Enjoying Exeter’s Scenery
Exeter’s charm extends beyond its streets, with several bars offering delightful views or unique atmospheric settings.
The Quay and Waterfront Bars
The Exeter Quay is a vibrant hub of activity, and it’s home to several bars and restaurants that offer fantastic waterside settings. While specific venues can change, always check out the bars lining the Quay for a lively atmosphere, especially on sunny days. You can enjoy a drink while watching the boats go by, or even rent a kayak for a pre-drink paddle. Many of these bars offer a good selection of beers, wines, and spirits, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The area buzzes with life, particularly in the summer months.
The Lookout at Sandy Park (Exeter Chiefs Rugby Ground)
For a different kind of view, and a truly local experience, consider The Lookout at Sandy Park, the home of the Exeter Chiefs rugby team. While primarily a hospitality venue for match days, they often open to the public for other events and can be a great place to soak up the local sporting atmosphere. It offers panoramic views over the rugby pitch and the surrounding area. Check their schedule for public opening times and events. It’s a unique spot that offers a glimpse into Exeter’s passionate sporting culture.
Insider Tips for Navigating Exeter’s Bars
To make the most of your bar hopping experience in Exeter, here are a few insider tips:
- Check Opening Times: Especially for smaller, independent pubs and brewery taprooms, opening times can vary, particularly on Mondays or outside of peak season. Always best to check online or give them a quick call.
- Embrace Local Brews: Devon is famous for its real ales and ciders. Don’t be afraid to ask bar staff for recommendations on local producers. You’ll find some truly exceptional drinks. If you’re keen to learn more about breweries and beers, dropt.beer’s shop might have something for you, or their blog is a treasure trove of information.
- Book Ahead for Food: Many of the more popular pubs, like The Old Fire House, get incredibly busy, especially for their food. If you plan to eat, it’s highly recommended to book a table in advance, particularly on weekends.
- Explore Beyond the Centre: While the city centre has plenty to offer, don’t forget to venture slightly further afield. Areas like St Thomas offer some lovely traditional pubs, and Marsh Barton has the brewery taproom.
- Live Music Nights: Keep an eye out for live music nights. Many pubs, including The Old Fire House, host local bands and artists, adding an extra layer of entertainment to your evening.
- The Cathedral Quarter: The area around the Cathedral Green is beautiful, and while it has some lovely cafes, exploring the smaller streets radiating from it, like High Street and Fore Street, will reveal more traditional pubs and quirky independent bars.
- Understand ‘The Yard’: If you’re looking for a lively, often student-filled area with multiple bars close together, head towards the area known locally as ‘The Yard’ off North Street. It’s a cluster of bars that can get very busy on a Friday and Saturday night.
A Final Word from Your Local Guide
Exeter’s bar scene is as rich and varied as its history. Whether you’re after a perfectly poured pint of real ale in a centuries-old pub, a cutting-edge craft beer from across the globe, or a meticulously mixed cocktail, this city delivers. I encourage you to wander, explore, and strike up conversations with the locals – they’re always happy to share their favourite spots. For more on discovering great beverages and the culture surrounding them, be sure to check out dropt.beer. Happy drinking!
