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As a uni student, it’s hard because on the one hand you want to go out and spend time with your friends every day but on the other hand you don’t want to empty out your bank account... fear not! I’m Aanya and here are some things you can do in Exeter that won’t break the bank.
- Movie nights
Grab your popcorn because this is such a fun activity to do with friends! You can watch a movie in your accommodation or there’s other options too like going to Vue Cinema – with tickets from £2.49 according to their website. A budget-friendly option is also joining the Campus Cinema society. Did you know we had a student-run cinema on campus with super cheap tickets and amazing movies to try out? There are also some tickets for the Exeter Phoenix events that are cheaper with a campus cinema society membership. Speaking of movies, are you a film fan? If so, check out the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum too which is free entry and located on campus!
- RAMM museum events and exhibitions
Entry to this museum is completely free and there’s lots to have a look at, from beautiful intricate paintings to archaeological and natural history artefacts. There are also exhibitions ongoing all the time for instance showcasing the natural landscape of areas in Devon. Did you know it holds over one million objects and is the largest museum in Exeter!
- Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market
The Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market is a must-see every year and a favourite among students during the festivities. This year, it is running from November 15 – December 15. There are also free events throughout this time such as the Nativity which is free to attend too! You can also visit the famous Exeter Cathedral during Christmas time by taking advantage of their entry by donation scheme (to ensure the cathedral is preserved for future generations). There is lots to explore so do have a look.
- Society/Uni/Guild events
There is so many events you can get involved in within the university. It’s often a good idea to check out the Guild Instagram page to find out what’s on every week – in terms of society events, University events, and our popular Give it a Go events. Did you know the Give it a Go events are completely free or low-cost and not only are there craft afternoons but also trips to the beach?
- Beach/Quay side
Speaking of the beach, the scenery is spectacular in Exeter! There’s Exmouth, Dawlish Warren, and Teignmouth, to name a few, which are all in close proximity and the train tickets themselves are very low cost too, around £5 including return. Having visited Dawlish recently with friends, I’d say it is so soothing to listen to the waves and stargaze if you have time and I would say bring a speaker, an activity like cards or painting, and lots of snacks!
- Red Coat Tours
Want to explore the city? The Red Coat walking tours are a great idea. You’ll be toured around by guides in red coats (hence the name!) and best of all, it is completely free! They have their autumn/winter programme tours running from the 1st of October 2024 to the 31st of March 2025. This is definitely something to not miss out on...
- Exeter Library
Exeter Library is also a great free location to visit. They also have lots of events like board game afternoons but also many late-night events. One that I thought was particularly unique was their ‘Bricks and Booze’ event which happens every Wednesday of the month which is an after-hours Lego session with refreshments too. Despite the name, the library specifically states that this is an inclusive event so you can come along even if you don’t drink and bring soft drinks, for example.