Discover Exeter's Top Family Activities for the Summer Holidays
Get set for an action-packed summer in Exeter with our ultimate family-friendly guide! This vibrant city has tons of exciting adventures in store for kids and parents alike. From awesome parks and thrilling attractions to cool museums and hands-on workshops, there's never a dull moment. Let's dive into Exeter's top family activities and create memories that'll make this summer one to remember. So, grab your loved ones and let the fun begin!
Family-Friendly Attractions
There’s a delightful array of family-friendly attractions in Exeter and the surrounding area, offering joy and wonder for all ages to enjoy together.
Crealy Theme Park & Resort
Experience the ultimate family adventure at Crealy Theme Park & Resort, just a short 15-20 minute drive from Exeter. Enjoy over 60 rides, attractions, and live shows suitable for all ages. Little ones can explore the newest area of the park, Sooty Land, while adrenaline seekers can brave the twists of the Maximus roller coaster. Plus, this summer, guests can enjoy a FREE return visit with a complimentary Crealy wristband or opt for a photo card at an extra cost of £5 per booking. Don't miss this action-packed opportunity for endless family fun and entertainment!
Image sourced from @crealyresort on Instagram
Go Ape Haldon Forest
Discover an exhilarating outdoor adventure at Go Ape Haldon Forest, just a short drive from Exeter. Surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of Haldon Forest Park, this treetop attraction offers a thrilling experience for families and adrenaline enthusiasts alike. Soar through the treetops on zip lines, conquer high rope obstacles, and embrace the sense of accomplishment as you navigate the exciting courses. Go Ape Haldon Forest promises an unforgettable day of fun, laughter, and outdoor excitement for visitors of all ages. Look out for family discounts and special offers available on the Go Ape website before you book.
World of Country Life
Join 'Appy Angus at World of Country Life, Exmouth, for an unforgettable summer full of fun and adventures, rain or shine! Enjoy daily activities like feeding red deer and llama, Ferret Racing Total Wipeout, and the Hawkridge birds of prey display. The children can explore outdoor play areas, including new Rabbit Warren tunnels and the exhilarating Air Bouncer or on rainy days, head indoors to Angus' Fun Farm Frenzy, Raceway Electric Cars, and more. Don't miss the Museum of Farming and Hall of Transport featuring vintage bikes, cars, buses and steam trains. With so much to see and do, World of Country Life promises a full day of summer holiday family fun near Exeter. Online booking is recommended to ensure your entrance to the park.
Indoor Activity Centres
Discover indoor excitement in Exeter during the summer holidays! Rain or shine, these activity centres offer a world of fun, from trampoline parks to indoor play areas.
Bear Feet Play Centre
During the summer holidays in Exeter, Bear Feet Play Centre is the ultimate indoor destination. Catering to kids of all ages, this family-friendly spot features climbing frames, slides, ball pools, football courts, and rides spread between their over 4’s area, under 4’s area, and a dedicated baby area. For the adults there’s great coffee, delicious cakes, free wifi and phone charging points. Plus, here's an added bonus - children under 1 go free! Rain or shine, Bear Feet Play Centre promises delightful summer memories for all ages.
iBounce Trampoline Park
Experience a summer full of bouncing excitement at iBounce Trampoline Park in Exeter! This high-energy indoor option offers fun for all ages, with interconnected trampolines, foam pits, and obstacle courses. Whether you're mastering tricks or enjoying weightless jumps, iBounce guarantees an exhilarating day for the whole family. The Exeter site offers something for everyone, with disco nights, parent and toddler sessions and additional needs sessions where carers go free. Advance booking is strongly recommended to avoid disappointment at busy times.
Photo sourced from @iBounce_Exeter on Instagram
Clip 'n Climb Exeter
Clip 'n Climb Exeter is an exhilarating indoor activity option, perfect for summer fun with children over 4 years old. This thrilling climbing centre offers a variety of exciting challenges and interactive climbing walls that promise an adrenaline-pumping experience for beginners and repeat climbers. With innovative auto-belay systems, youngsters can climb safely without ropes or harnesses, adding to the excitement. Clip 'n Climb Exeter provides a unique and thrilling way for children to stay active, build confidence, and have a blast during the summer holidays. With the Workshop Cafe on site, after you’ve worked up an appetite climbing, you can sit down to enjoy a tasty family lunch. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure as your little climbers conquer the walls and create cherished memories at Clip 'n Climb Exeter, located in Quay Climbing Centre.
History and Culture
Exeter Cathedral
Explore Exeter Cathedral, a family-friendly historical attraction, this summer with "Summer Activities on the Green" every Monday morning from 31 July to 4 September, 11 am – 12:30 pm. Kids can enjoy a captivating play about King Henry VII's stay at the Treasures House, and an arts and crafts workshop with local artist Sarah McFloof. Create your own shield, design personal crests, and paint ceramic stones inspired by the Cathedral's ceiling bosses. Best of all, these engaging activities are free for all young history enthusiasts! Don't miss this blend of learning, creativity, and summer fun at Exeter Cathedral.
Photo by Nick Hawkes on Unsplash
Visit the RAMM
Embark on a captivating journey with your family at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM) in Exeter. This vibrant museum is located right opposite our shop on Queen Street and is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture, perfect for an educational and fun-filled outing with kids of all ages.
As you step inside the beautifully restored Victorian building, you'll be greeted by fascinating exhibits that span centuries, showcasing everything from ancient artefacts to modern masterpieces. Engage your little ones with interactive displays and hands-on activities, making learning a delightful experience.
The museum also hosts engaging family-friendly events and workshops throughout the year, offering opportunities for creative exploration and discovery. From art sessions to historical storytelling, these activities inspire young minds to immerse themselves in the wonders of the past and present.
General admission to the RAMM is free of charge, for workshop and events pricing information, please visit the museum website to find out more.
Walk Underground Passages
Exeter's Underground Passages offer a fascinating and adventurous experience for families with children aged 5 and above. Step beneath the city's bustling streets and embark on a unique journey through time. These medieval tunnels, built in the 14th century, provide an exciting glimpse into Exeter's history and engineering marvels. Led by knowledgeable guides, families can explore the passages' intriguing stories and hidden secrets. The underground adventure guarantees an immersive and educational outing, creating cherished memories for both kids and parents alike. Get ready to dive into history and uncover the mysteries of Exeter's past with a visit to the captivating Underground Passages!
St Nicholas Priory
Looking for a unique and educational summer holiday family activity in Exeter? Look no further than St Nicholas Priory! Founded by William the Conqueror in 1087, this historic gem is Exeter's oldest building, once home to Benedictine monks for over four centuries. Step back in time as you explore its captivating interiors and learn about its rich heritage. Engage in fun-filled family activities, from hands-on crafts to fascinating historical talks. St Nicholas Priory offers an immersive experience that will captivate both young and old alike.
Click here for full detail of what’s on at St Nicholas Priory this summer
Outdoor Parks and Walks in Exeter
Summer days out in Exeter don’t have to cost the earth and luckily we are spoiled for choice with an abundance of picturesque gardens, parks, walking routes and the nearby Devon countryside that can be enjoyed for free!
Heavitree Pleasure Ground in Exeter is a delightful haven for families, with its highlight being the fun-filled pools for kids. For warm sunny days, it's the perfect place for little ones to splash and play in the shallow paddling pools, providing hours of joy and excitement. Surrounded by lush greenery, the park offers a serene setting for families to enjoy a memorable day of water-filled activities and outdoor fun.
Northernhay Gardens, just down the road from our Exeter shop, is a charming green oasis perfect for family days in the city centre. Kids love the playground, while parents enjoy picnics on the grass. Explore the sensory area and discover historic features including the War Memorial.
Ludwell Valley Park is an enchanting natural retreat in Exeter, ideal for family outdoor adventures. Embrace the serenity of open meadows and woodland trails, while spotting diverse wildlife, including birds and butterflies. Families can immerse themselves in nature, creating cherished memories amidst scenic surroundings.
Exeter Quay and Canal Walk is fantastic for families seeking an affordable day out. With its charming waterfront, it offers an ideal setting for leisurely strolls. Families can enjoy observing the boats passing by and spotting ducks and other wildlife. Additionally, the flat and well-maintained paths make it suitable for bike rides, providing a wonderful opportunity for family cycling.
Photo by Spencer Eccles_Jones on Unsplash
Family-Friendly Dining
Eating out as a family is an event in itself but it can be expensive. Luckily there are many restaurants in Exeter that have special offers on, for affordable family dining in the city.
Monday to Friday throughout the Summer holidays, up to two children can eat free at Bill’s Exeter for breakfast, lunch or dinner when an adult orders a main meal.
Image supplied by Bill's Restaurants
Eat The Bird Exeter also has a kids eat free offer during the 2023 summer holidays, so your ‘little cluckers’ can enjoy some of the city's best fried chicken for less. This Eat The Bird offer is available Monday to Friday from 12pm to 6pm with every adult burger when you dine in.
If you’re in the mood for Italian food, kids can eat for just £1 at most Bella Italia restaurants, including their Exeter chain which is just down the road from us on Queen Street. For only £1 your littles ones can enjoy three delicious courses and a drink when you order an adult main. This offer is available 4-6pm Monday to Thursday. Bella Italia also provide a great colouring sheet to keep the kids entertained in between courses, so it's an ideal midweek family dinner option!
Even closer to our shop, you’ll find seriously tasty treats at our neighbours, Big Bakes Bakery. You’ll find the most scrumptious fudgy brownies, cookies and now their own gelato made with fellow Devon business The Local Scoop.
Photo from @BigBakesBakery on Instagram
Big Bakes Bakery opened their first shop in Torquay so if you are ever by the coast be sure to pay them a visit there too.
During your visit to Exeter, we'd love for you and all the family to come say hello at our store. We are certain that the children will love our big collection of fun and cuddly Jellycats and we have beautiful homewares and lifestyle pieces for the adults to browse too.