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Located in England’s South West, Exeter is a compact and friendly university city with plenty to keep you entertained during your studies! Home to the University of Exeter, the city has a large student population and lots of local businesses catering to students through exclusive discounts and deals. If you’re not sure about living in Exeter as a student, we’ve put together a list of 14 of the best benefits of studying here to help you make your decision.
1. Educational opportunities
The city is home to the University of Exeter, a UK top 20 university (Complete University Guide 2025) with an excellent international reputation. The research the university produces is extremely highly regarded, and the campus itself boasts recent major investments and top-of-the-range learning facilities.
2. Student-friendly city
As Exeter has such a large student population, there’s plenty going on for students. There are clubs and bars across the city than run mid-week student nights or have student deals available, so make sure you make the most of these for a night out that won’t break the bank!
3. Historical city
The cathedral is certainly impressive to behold, and there’s also a lot of history to explore across the city. From the city walls to the Exeter book, there’s loads to learn. The city also has multiple museums to check out if you’re looking to learn more about history from further afield.
4. Cultural hub
As Devon’s main city, Exeter acts as a cultural hub, with plenty to get involved in. Here, you’ll find museums, art galleries, music venues, theatres and festivals, all catering to a diverse range of interests and tastes.
5. Local beaches
Exeter isn’t on the coast itself, but it’s only a short train ride away. Catch the local train over to Exmouth, and spend the day wandering the little town, relaxing on the beach and, of course, having an ice cream or fish and chips by the sea. It’s a great way to chill out after exams are over!
6. Cider land
Devon is known for its apple orchards and, of course, its cider. If you’re looking for an alternative to beer for your nights out, then cider is the answer, and Devon has some of the best presses in the country. Devon Red is one of the most famous local ciders, but there are plenty of other companies bottling their own ciders locally.
7. Festivals and markets
From the Christmas market to the summer Pride festival, there’s often something going on in the city for you to check out. As well as these major events, you’ll also find things like food and drink festivals throughout the year, so make sure to keep an eye on the city’s events calendar.
8. Transport links
Exeter’s main train station offers direct trains to Bristol, London and Birmingham as well as other destinations, meaning it’s a great base from which to visit home or to explore other UK cities. Make the most of the discounts available by getting a 16-25 railcard – even if you’re not 16-25 you’re eligible for one as a student – and save 1/3 on all your rail travel.
9. Friendly local community
The locals are known for being welcoming and friendly, so you’ll settle in quickly here. The compact city centre means you’ll find it easy to get your bearings, and you’ll start to recognise some faces quickly thanks to the strong local community.
10. Famous alumni
The university has plenty of famous alumni you could be following in the footsteps of, from Nicholas Pegg to Toby Amies to Thom Yorke. There are also many Exeter alumni who went on to become politicians, including cabinet ministers, UK MPs and ministers in other nations.
11. Literary connections
Among Exeter’s notable alumni are several authors, writers and journalists, but the literary connections in Exeter run deeper than this. The Exeter book is acknowledged as one of the most important and foundational items in English literature, and several high-profile writers of the past and present were inspired by the city, including Charles Dickens. Thanks in part to all this, the city has a flourishing literary scene with lots to get involved in.
12. Shopping and dining
The city centre in Exeter has plenty to offer students, with a wide range of shopping and dining establishments. With different styles, cuisines and levels of formality on offer, there’s something for every occasion to be found in the city centre. And, many of the shops and restaurants also offer student discounts for extra savings.
13. Outdoor activities
As it’s located in Devon, there’s plenty to do if you love the outdoors. Take the short drive down to Cornwall to explore some of the most picturesque towns and villages, or head the other direction to Dartmoor National Park and enjoy the natural beauty of the Devonshire countryside.
14. Low crime rate
The crime rate in Exeter is well below the national average, and it’s also ranked within the top 10 safest major towns in the whole of the UK. While you still of course have to be sensible, this knowledge should put you at ease, and help you settle in and feel comfortable in your new home.
Source: crimerate.
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