Exeter is a friendly cathedral city in the heart of South West England. The city is also where our HQ is based, along with our fantastic range of serviced accommodation in Exeter.
Where is Exeter?
Exeter and its 130,000 population are based in Devon in the South West of England. Its significance as the heart of the county is magnified by the intersecting River Exe. It is Devon’s largest and flows from the English Channel in the south right through to Exmoor to the north. The area furthermore segregates itself from the rest of the county thanks to the 2000-year-old city wall.
There is no mistaking that both Exeter and Devon are considered amongst the best places to live in the UK. A report produced by Arcadis found that Exeter outscored every other British city in terms of quality of life. This took into account aspects such as mortality rates, cost of living, the amount of green space and crime rate.
What’s more, the city ranks amongst the top ten for infrastructural performance. This sees Exeter score well in regard to ultrafast broadband access, public transport, and traffic congestion. Furthermore, the most recent safety report found that Exeter was also one of the top ten safest cities in England and Wales.
Feeling safe and secure in a new place is vital for anyone. Results such as these mean new arrivals to the city staying in Exeter apartments are put at immediate ease.
Exeter's History
Much of the appeal of Exeter also comes from its rich history. Historians first acknowledge Exeter as a Roman town born as early as 50AD. The land was used in a bid to become an administrative centre of the region. Throughout the trials and tribulations of the following centuries, it was the famous cathedral, built in the eleventh century that maintained Exeter’s powerful status.
The historic structure epitomises the city’s heritage. Demolished and rebuilt on several occasions throughout its 950-year history, today it still stands as one of the UK’s greatest cathedrals and finest examples of Gothic architecture. Naturally, the Exeter Cathedral attracts its own following of tourists, of which many opt to stay in Exeter city apartments to make sure they are within easy walking distance.
Alongside the cathedral though, there are many other attractions which display Exeter’s fine history. History enthusiasts could visit the Royal Albert Museum, Exeter’s Underground Passages or even the Guildhall on the High Street. Therefore, it is worthwhile taking the Red Coat Guided Tour. These tours provide a great way for those staying in short term accommodation or short term lets in Exeter to quickly learn more about the city’s past when they initially arrive.
Exeter Businesses
The economy of Exeter rightly catches the eye of those looking to migrate. Exeter leads over Plymouth and Torquay as the largest urban centre in rural Devon, home to over 4,000 registered businesses. The city has also continued to be amongst the top ten cities for Gross Value Added, and this trend is only set to continue.
It is for reasons such as these that around 35,000 commuters located close to Exeter travel to the city every day. Many hope their newfound work will allow them to take advantage of the average city centre footfall of over 1.3 million people each month, as well as a recent £500 million investment into the area.
It comes as no surprise that the city is listed as the fifth lowest in the UK for unemployment. Evidently, those choosing to stay in Exeter corporate housing have every opportunity of enhancing or changing their career path. This also, of course, applies to University of Exeter students looking at student housing in Exeter.
The commitment of mass employers to situate themselves here, such as the Met Office, Pennon Group PLC and Flybe, also proves the capability of the local business climate. Moreover, it encourages more and more businesses to relocate here. This has meant a significant population continue to opt to book stays in SITU's self-catering Exeter corporate accommodation boasting great city-centre locations.
Things to do in Exeter
Exeter is defined by more than just its booming economy though. Moving to Exeter also means moving to a city full of natural beauty. As well as the lovely historic sites we have already mentioned, Exeter's own unique attractions, such as the iconic Quay, help express the city's distinctive character.
There are plenty of good places to eat and drink across Exeter, but it may be worth heading down to the Exeter Quay instead. Here, visitors can hire a kayak, go climbing or sailing, check out a variety of eateries or find a good pub or night club, all in one place.
There are plenty of green spaces across Exeter too. On the outskirts of Exeter city centre, there is Mincinglake Valley Park, Riverside Valley Park, the picturesque Pinces Gardens, Bury Meadow Park and many more. They mix well with Exeter's urban scene to create an environment blessed with diversity.
To fulfil your greater outdoors fix even further, you could travel a little beyond the city. Why not spend the day visiting the coastal towns of Dawlish Warren, Exmouth or Sidmouth? Each of these seaside locations are around a forty-five minutes drive away.
Alternatively, perhaps the most popular attractor of tourists to Devon is Dartmoor National Park. Covering almost 1,000 square kilometres, the Park has so much to offer for families, particularly those who are hiking enthusiasts. You may end up driving a few extra miles, but the day-out is completely worth it. It could involve starting with a lovely stroll along the beautiful moors before finishing with some food and drink in a classic Devonshire pub or restaurant.
Ultimately, Exeter is our hometown. This is where our journey began and where our head office is. Therefore, we provide the best Exeter serviced apartments on the market in a city blessed with wonderful attractions, a blossoming economy and a rich history.
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Looking for more content about living in Exeter? Be sure to check out our '7 Things You Need To Know Before Moving To Exeter' Blog to learn more about the city and what to expect when relocating here.
