Overview
Exeter is a cathedral city in Devon, home to the University of Exeter — a Russell Group university with a beautiful campus and strong rankings across arts, sciences, and business. The city is compact, safe, and surrounded by some of England's most spectacular countryside, including Dartmoor National Park and the Jurassic Coast. Devon's beaches are a major draw, and the lifestyle is more relaxed than the big northern cities. International students appreciate the tight-knit community and the quality of life.
Universities in Exeter
Student Neighbourhoods
The campus at the University of Exeter is set in beautiful grounds — Streatham Campus feels more like a country estate. The city centre is compact with Cathedral Green as the focal point. Heavitree and St Thomas are affordable student areas. The Quay is a regenerated waterfront with cafés and kayaking.
Getting Around
Exeter St Davids station connects to London Paddington (2 hrs 10 min), Bristol (1 hr), and Plymouth (1 hr). Buses cover the city and surrounding Devon villages. Cycling is popular — the Exe Estuary Trail is a scenic route. Exeter Airport has limited domestic flights. The city is small enough to walk most places.
Student Life in Exeter
Exeter offers a classic university town experience. The campus is beautiful, the surrounding countryside is stunning (Dartmoor, the Jurassic Coast), and the student community is close-knit. The quay area is great for water sports. Nightlife is concentrated around Gandy Street and the city centre — it's not huge but it's friendly. Exeter is ideal if you want outdoor access with a proper university social life.
Cost of Living
- Monthly Rent (student)
- £550–£800/mo
- Groceries
- £150 – £250/mo
- Transport Pass
- £80 – £130/mo
- Going Out (per night)
- £20 – £60
- Estimated Total
- £800 – £1,240/mo
Rent in other currencies
🇨🇦 CAD: $946 – $1,376/mo
🇺🇸 USD: $699 – $1,016/mo
Approximate. Exchange rates vary.