Exeter's Underground Passages

These medieval passages have always fascinated local people. There are stories of wars and sieges, plague and pestilence. They were designed to bring clean drinking water from natural springs outside the walled city. The water came through lead pipes into the heart of the city. The pipes sometimes leaked and repairs to buried pipes could only be carried out by digging them up as we do today. To avoid this disruption the passages were vaulted. It is down some of these vaulted passageways that visitors are guided.

Exeter is the only city in the UK to have underground passages of this type. Guided tours have taken place here since the 1930s. Today the passages are lit throughout, but still fascinate for all who enter.

Timings & Tours

Thursday 12 September:

11:30, 12:30, 13:30 & 14:30

Friday 13 September:

11:30, 12:30, 13:30 & 14:30

Saturday 14 September:

11:30, 12:30, 13:30 & 14:30

Sunday 15 September:

11:30, 12:30, 13:30 & 14:30

Location & directions

2 Paris Street, Exeter, Devon, EX1 1GA

Directions:

The entrance to Exeter's Underground Passages is on Paris Street which is just off the main High Street as it joins Sidwell Street. Nearby shops are Next and John Lewis.

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking required

Booking conditions:

Tickets are limited to 5 per customer. Tickets must be booked online in advance.

Booking website:

https://exetercornexchange.co.uk/whats-on/hod-underground-passages-2024/

Booking opens:

01 Sep 2024 11:00 AM

Accessibility details

Wheelchair and pushchair access is restricted to the exhibition only which is free and not part of the tour. Visitors should be aware that the Passages are constricted and low in places. They are not suitable for those who suffer from claustrophobia. Sensible footwear is recommended. Dogs are not permitted on tours. However assistance dogs are allowed into the exhibition.

Additional information

Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour is due to start. Children aged under 5 are not allowed on tours but free access to the exhibition is permitted with an accompanying adult. Children (under 18s) must be accompanied by an adult underground.

Max no of people per tour:

15

Est. tour duration:

0 hour(s) 45 minute(s)

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