Where to live next: Exeter, Devon

Offering the ease of a small city with the freedom of countryside living, Exeter’s outstanding schools, waterfront lifestyle and abundant green spaces make it a standout choice

26 February 2026

2 mins read

Where to live next: Exeter, Devon — Photography by Juan Trujillo Andrades

“Exeter is where my heart is,” says Louise Glanville, Knight Frank’s Exeter Office Head. Having grown up and attended school in the city, she spent several years in London before returning to Devon, where she has remained for more than a decade.

“Because of the outdoors nature of the area, when it’s a nice evening your day begins after work, and there’s lots of lovely restaurants, pubs and good food. At the weekend, that transforms into long walks across Dartmoor National Park or enjoying a nearby beach - it’s an active lifestyle that is really special.”

A relaxed, balanced lifestyle in Exeter

With a population of around 138,000, Exeter offers all the advantages of a small city without the stress, with beaches, moorland and forest all on its doorstep. Eminently walkable, its historic, cobbled streets are lined with independent boutiques and restaurants, while the bustling quayside provides opportunities to soak in maritime history, relax in waterside pubs or take part in sports from canoeing and kayaking to paddleboarding.

Home to the University of Exeter, the city also hosts major employers including the Met Office, headquartered here since 2003. Exeter Science Park provides a hub for STEM businesses, supporting a skilled workforce and a growing innovation ecosystem.

Along with lifestyle advantages and excellent schools, Exeter appeals to families seeking a connected yet more relaxed pace of life in the South West. “The pandemic accelerated the trend towards families moving from places such as London to the area, with many choosing to stay long term,” explains Louise.

A direct fast train from Exeter to London takes as little as 2 hours and 2 minutes on the quickest services, making it a compelling choice for those looking to balance true countryside living with access to the capital. “We’ve definitely seen that shift towards buyers becoming younger, and seeking a lifestyle change with young children.”

Where to live in Exeter

Due to the city’s walkable nature, its most sought after suburbs provide calm residential living with convenient access to the centre. “St Leonard’s is considered the ‘Mayfair’ of Exeter,” says Louise. “It has a lovely village feel, and at its heart is Magdalen Road, lined with fantastic artisan shops and eateries.” Its large Georgian family homes are among the most desirable in the city, aided by proximity to respected educational institutions such as Exeter School and top‑rated primary schools.

To the north lies Pennsylvania, its elevated position offering panoramic views over the city and surrounding countryside. Here you’ll find a mix of terraced and larger detached homes from period to contemporary styles. “The 1930s houses here offer great proportions, especially for larger families, while as you get up towards Stoke Hill you’ll find some spectacular modern homes equipped with top-end amenities such as cinema rooms,” she says. In these neighbourhoods, expect to pay around £1.5m to £3m for a good‑sized family home.

Darts Farm, Devon

Louise’s local gems in and around Exeter:

“If you love farm shops then you must visit Darts Farm, which has an incredible range of local produce, shopping and events.”

“The NoBody Inn in Doddiscombsleigh is a beautiful historic pub that does amazing seasonal and locally sourced food.”

“In the summer it’s worth the trip down to the River Exe Cafe, an amazing restaurant on a floating barge offshore in the Exe Estuary - it’s really good fun.”