15 Date Ideas Exeter Couples Will Love

ByOMG Hitched Team Reading Time: 7 minutes

If you’re looking for fun and interesting things to do on a date in Exeter, you’re in the right place. This city offers a mix of activities for different tastes, whether you want something relaxed or more adventurous.

A young couple walking hand-in-hand along a river quay with boats and historic buildings in the background.

You’ll find plenty of options to make your time together special. From cozy spots to lively places, Exeter has something for everyone.

1) The Plant Cafe for a cozy coffee date

Two people sitting at a small table in a cafe, enjoying coffee and conversation surrounded by plants.

Start your date at The Plant Cafe, a lovely spot with a warm, inviting vibe. Because it’s not a big chain, it feels more special and relaxed.

Enjoy great coffee and tasty plant-based snacks while you talk. It’s a perfect place to get to know each other without too much noise.

Check out The Plant Cafe in Exeter for a cozy and friendly coffee date.

2) Explore Exeter’s Underground Passages

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Take a guided tour through Exeter’s Underground Passages. These medieval tunnels once carried fresh water under the city.

The tours are short and fun, giving you a glimpse of history beneath the streets. The dark and narrow tunnels add a sense of adventure to your date.

Book ahead and arrive early to join a tour at Exeter’s Underground Passages. Learn more about the tours here.

3) Dinner at Firehouse with candlelit ambiance

A cozy dinner table set for two with candles inside a firehouse restaurant featuring exposed brick walls and warm lighting.

Firehouse offers a cozy, candlelit setting perfect for a relaxed dinner. Share a pizza over soft lighting to make your evening feel special.

The wine is affordable, which keeps the mood light and fun. Locals and students love the classy yet casual vibe.

Check out more about Firehouse here.

4) Pho at Guildhall Shopping Centre for dinner

A young couple enjoying dinner at a cozy restaurant inside Guildhall Shopping Centre in Exeter.

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Pho in Exeter’s Guildhall Shopping Centre. The restaurant serves fresh and healthy Vietnamese dishes, especially pho noodle soup.

Try sharing starters, salads, and rice bowls for a light meal. The friendly vibe makes it perfect for a cozy dinner date.

Check out more about Pho Exeter here.

5) Scenic walk along the Exe River

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Enjoy a peaceful walk along the Exe River, where calm water meets green parks. It’s a perfect spot to chat and relax together.

The paths are easy to follow and mostly flat, so you can walk comfortably. You’ll pass bridges and open spaces with lovely views of Exeter’s skyline.

For details, check the Exeter’s Riverside and Western Skyline walk.

6) Escape room challenge in Exeter city center

A group of young adults working together inside an escape room with city buildings visible through windows in the background.

Try an escape room in Exeter city center if you enjoy puzzles. Work together to solve clues and unlock mysteries.

You can choose from several escape rooms, including popular spots like Escape Hunt. Each room offers different themes and challenges to keep things exciting.

This experience makes for an active and memorable date. For more details, check out Escape Hunt Exeter.

7) Cocktail evening at The Candlelight Lounge

A couple enjoying cocktails together in a cozy, candlelit lounge with a bar in the background.

Spend a cozy night at The Candlelight Lounge in Exeter. The soft lighting and warm atmosphere create a great spot for a date.

Try a variety of cocktails, from classics to new creations. You can relax and unwind together after a busy day.

8) Browse books and share a coffee at Waterstones

A young couple sitting at a small table inside a bookstore, sharing coffee and surrounded by bookshelves.

Spend a relaxed afternoon at Waterstones in Exeter, browsing through a wide selection of books. Explore different genres and share your favorite finds with each other.

Afterwards, enjoy a cozy coffee at their bookshop cafe. This is a simple way to connect in a warm atmosphere.

Find your next favorite read at this friendly local spot Bookshop in Exeter – Roman Gate Waterstones.

9) Visit Rougemont Gardens for a peaceful stroll

A young couple walking hand in hand along a garden path surrounded by trees and flowers with stone walls in the background.

Take a quiet walk in Rougemont Gardens, a green space next to Exeter Castle. The gardens are perfect for relaxing away from the busy city.

Bring a blanket and snacks for a simple picnic. The historic walls and lovely plants create a nice backdrop for your time together.

Rougemont Gardens feels like a little secret in Exeter. Learn more about this peaceful place at Visit Exeter.

10) Catch a quirky film at Exeter Phoenix

A young couple sitting together in a cozy cinema watching a film, sharing popcorn and enjoying the experience.

Watch unique movies at Exeter Phoenix. They show independent films you won’t find in regular cinemas.

Relax in a cozy space while watching new releases or classic favorites. This spot also hosts special film events and festivals.

Explore their schedule and find a film that suits your mood at Exeter Phoenix. Exeter Phoenix cinema offers a great mix of options.

11) Play games at Flip Out Trampoline Park

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Have a lot of fun at Flip Out Trampoline Park in Exeter. Bounce, jump, and play games together.

The park also has soft play areas, so you can be active or just relax. It’s a great way to break the ice and share some laughs.

Check out what Flip Out offers if you want an exciting indoor date.

12) Share pizzas at The Stable Bar

A young couple sharing a pizza and drinks at a wooden table inside a cozy bar.

If you love pizza, visit The Stable Bar in Exeter for a date. Share different kinds of pizzas made with fresh local ingredients.

They also offer a wide choice of ciders. The cozy atmosphere makes it easy to relax and enjoy your time together.

Check out more about The Stable Bar online.

13) Enjoy a live music night at The Cavern

People enjoying live music at a cozy venue with a band performing on stage and couples sitting at tables.

Have a great night out at The Cavern, Exeter’s longtime live music spot. The small venue is perfect if you like close-up shows.

You’ll find a mix of local bands and bigger names playing most nights. Check upcoming gigs to pick a night that suits your taste.

More info about shows is available on the Exeter Cavern website.

14) Try craft beers at Exeter Brewery

A young couple sitting at a wooden table inside a brewery, enjoying glasses of craft beer and smiling at each other.

Enjoy a great selection of local beers at Exeter Brewery. Their tap room is a cozy spot to relax with your date.

If you like tasting different styles, try the options on draft. You can join a brewery tour to see how the beer is made.

Afterward, try some classic pub food with your drinks. Check out more about this spot at the Exeter Brewery website.

15) Visit the Royal Albert Memorial Museum

You can explore thousands of years of history at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum. The exhibits show everything from ancient fossils to art from around the world.

It’s a fun place to learn and wander with your date. The museum often hosts talks and activities that you can join.

Spend a few hours discovering local stories and global treasures at this friendly museum in Exeter’s city center. For details, check the Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery.

How to Choose the Perfect Date Idea in Exeter

A couple walking hand-in-hand along Exeter Quay with historic buildings and boats in the background on a sunny day.

Picking a date idea is easier when you think about what you both enjoy. Consider the time you have and your budget.

Match your plans to your interests and the season.

Maximizing Your Exeter Date Experience

A young couple sitting at a café table outdoors near historic buildings, enjoying a date in Exeter.

Plan ahead to get the most from your time in Exeter. This helps you avoid busy spots and enjoy the local vibe.

Making Reservations in Advance

Exeter offers many popular restaurants and venues, especially on weekends. Book a table or tickets ahead to guarantee your spot.

Places like Bill’s Exeter, known for bottomless brunch, fill up fast. You can reserve online or call directly.

If you want a specific time, try to book at least a few days in advance. This also helps with activities like theater shows at the Northcott Theatre.

Booking early can get you better seats and discounts like the U26 membership. Walk-ins might work during quieter hours, but reservations save you from waiting or being turned away on busy nights.

Local Etiquette and Dos and Don’ts

When dating in Exeter, remember a few local customs. Be polite and patient because locals value kindness and good manners.

Shops and restaurants often close earlier than those in big cities. Check opening times before you go out.

Dress in smart-casual attire for restaurants and theaters. Keep your behavior friendly and relaxed, as loud or rude actions are not welcome.

Respect the city’s historic spots by avoiding littering or causing disruptions. Treat these places with care.

When you visit markets like the Exeter Christmas Market, handle goods gently. Speak to stallholders politely.

Small gestures, such as saying thank you or holding doors, create a good impression on your date and the people you meet.