48 HOURS IN… EXETER

IT'S A GREAT FEELING to visit one of the UK's most up-and-coming cities as though you are just slightly ahead of the curve, discovering valuable insights as if somehow sneaking in there just before everyone else. That’s exactly how I felt touring and speaking to the locals on my recent weekend city break to Exeter. You've most probably travelled past this beautiful historic city (pre-dating the arrival of the Romans in AD 50) or passed through it while en-route to Devon and Cornwall, but perhaps dismissed it as your final destination? Hopefully, my description of time spent in this eco-conscious re-imagined city will encourage you to reconsider this as a wonderful city break with great food, culture and varied attractions.

And it would seem I am not alone in my enthusiasm for the city – stylish brands, including glamorous restaurant chain The Ivy and luxury hotel chain IHG, have moved in too. Opposite the Cathedral overlooking the green, The Ivy has just opened following a refurbishment to Exeter’s landmark City Bank; it is the newest Ivy and first of its kind in Devon