Tucked away in the rolling green fields of Devon, Exeter is a city that’s full of surprises. On the surface it’s a laid back kind of place, with none of the smog, dirt and mania of bigger cities. But delve a little deeper and you’ll find loads of fun things to do in Exeter.

To get you started, here are four options to keep you entertained during your visit:

Retail Therapy

For a small city, Exeter is rammed full of great shops, so if you like to splash some cash on yourself during your holidays then you won’t be disappointed. From the major names like John Lewis, Superdry and Hollister to a range of smaller independent stores located on Gandy Street (inspiration for Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley) and Fore Street it’s all right here.

The Princesshay shopping centre was opened a few years ago and has quickly become a hub for socialising, as it’s full of shops, restaurants, street artists and regular events. Even if shopping isn’t high on your list of things to do in Exeter, a trip to Princesshay is a must.

Adrenaline Rush

Although Exeter has that typical slow pace that the West Country is so famous for, it doesn’t mean there aren’t any exciting things to do in Exeter. Make your way down to the Quayside and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to get your heart pumping.

The Clip ‘N Climb indoor climbing centre is the biggest in the region and you can try your hand at rock climbing on walls that reach 14 metres, bouldering and abseiling. The centre does full courses and has a dedicated teaching area where you can learn the basics of this extreme sport.

Book A Table

You’d be hard pressed to find a city of similar size that boasts the range of great restaurants and cafes that Exeter has. Jamie Oliver recently opened one of his signature Italian restaurants in the city centre and you’ll find other big name chain restaurants too.

Overlooking the beautiful Cathedral is Michael Caines’ Abode. Born in Exeter, Michael is one of the country’s most respected chefs and his hometown restaurant offers fine dining with an incredible menu.

If your wallet won’t stretch to that then you’ll find more affordable restaurants like Zizzi’s, Pizza Express and a selection of independent eateries dotted around the city centre.

Turn It Up To 11

There’s a vibrant music scene in Exeter, and catching a band is one of the best things to do in Exeter in the evening. From local up and comers to big name touring bands, you’re bound to find something that floats your boat.

At the Cavern you can enjoy a wide range of indie, punk and metal bands. A small underground venue, the Cavern has atmosphere in spades and is renowned for its feel good atmosphere.

If your tastes are a little softer - folk, jazz, funk or reggae - then the Phoenix arts centre plays host to bands from all genres. A comfortable and relaxed venue, the Phoenix is great for catching a band and then enjoying a relaxed drink or two in the bar afterward.

These ideas give you a taste of the fun things to do in Exeter, but there are plenty more on offer. Perhaps it’s time you came and found out just what this city has to offer.

Looking for cheap accommodation in Exeter? Take a look at the amazing value rooms available at Event Exeter.

You know when you just see an article and it instantly resonates with you? Well, this is what happened to me with "The Beginners Guide To A Bucket Shower". It brought back so many amazing memories of Botswana and how refreshing that bucket shower is at the end of a long, sweaty, dusty day in the Bush.

I haven't been to Cornwall for 3 years (after visiting every year since 2002), so a few weeks back it was time to touch base - and the weather wasn't looking half bad either. I recently figured out the panorama feature on my iPhone (yes, I know, a bit slow!) and started practicing with coastlines pics. As you know, I love cliffs and coastline, especially when the sun shines.

Could have done with the panorama feature in Central America. Oh well!

Check out my "Cornwall in panorama" captured on an up and coming social media platform called Showzee:

One of the great things about working from home is you can visit the seaside on a Monday! Even better when it's a sunny Monday.

I have so many wonderful memories of Southsea in Portsmouth. Family trips, playing the 2p machines, the claw machines, racing games, dodgems, candyfloss, the hovercraft spraying us, bravely swimming in the sea, frisbee on the green, football, picnics, fish and chips, ice cream, Brittany ferries and P&O cruises ...