The Exeter Pub Scene Part 1

The Exeter Pub Scene Part 1: A Focus On Three of Our Favourite 'Watering Holes'

At the last count we found a total of 84 pubs in Exeter. They are everywhere ! You'll find a pub within easy walking distance of every home. When people refer to their 'local' they are referring to the pub (Public House is the formal term) that they like the most or the one they go to regularly. English people go to pubs to meet friends, to unwind after a long working day or at the end of the working week and commonly to drink alcohol. England is famous for its pub culture and there are many different types of building, speciality drinks, decor and atmosphere. In this first in a new BLOG series, our man in-the-know Andy Bungay focuses on three historic Exeter pubs.

The Turk's Head

The Turk's Head is located on the High Street next to the Guildhall. It is one of the city's oldest pubs, with over 700 years of history dating back to 1289. It is best known for its connection to the celebrated author Charles Dickens, who famously frequented it. At one point in its early history, it was a prison. It once held a Turkish prisoner in its cellar, hence the name.

The Turk's Head has a wonderful atmosphere and is a favourite of locals. There is an interesting link to IPC as it was where Andy’s father regularly used to go during his University days in Exeter.

Today the Turk's Head houses its own micro-brewery and serves up beers made on the premises.

Visit The Turk's Head website

The Hour Glass Inn

The Hour Glass is a classic street pub, located just around the corner from IPC in Colleton Crescent. A traditional 'boozer' (synonym for pub) with a real fire, unusual décor and a cosy, warm atmosphere, it is beloved of the local community - the kind of place you can go alone and either sit quietly with a drink and read, or chat to one of the locals.

The Hour Glass is a pub for those 'in the know'. It's tucked away in a quiet corner. Currently owned by Exeter Brewery it serves a pint that has been lovingly brewed just a couple of miles down-river.

The restaurant has a reputation for excellence and prices to match !

Visit the Hour Glass website

The Ship Inn

The Ship is located down a dark alley off Cathedral green and deep in the city centre. It dates back to the 15th Century, making it one of Exeter’s oldest pubs. It has a Tudor period-inspired design. The real fire in winter gives the Ship a lovely sociable feel and it also has a great choice of food.

Historical Connection

According to local records, The Ship Inn was a favourite watering hole of Sir Francis Drake, the famed 16th Century ships captain. Drake famously beat back the advances of the Spanish Armada in 1588 and it's nice to imagine him repairing to The Ship for a pint to celebrate his success at sea.

The pub was occupied by loyalist soldiers during the English Civil war (1642 – 1651). During World War 2, the dog of the owner, a black Cocker Spaniel called Sam, was known for his ability to carry drinks and collect tips !

Bringing you up to date

The Ship is now a great place for Karaoke and live music at the weekend !!

Visit the Ship Inn website