SIX TOP HITS FOR EXETER MUSIC TOURISTS – ENGLISH TOURISM WEEK

The Southwest alone boasts an impressive £8.4 billion in total Tourism spending (source: Visit Britain).

But did you know that total music tourism spending in 2022 hit a high note at £683 million, with the total number of music tourists being 1.1 million? (Source UKMusic)

Nonetheless, we’re facing a silent issue – the closure of grassroots music venues. Last year alone, 125 GMV’s were left with no choice but to shut their venue doors to musicians and music lovers.

But it wasn’t for lack of demand – live music events soared by 2.9%, proving our collective hunger for raw, musical experiences. (Source MVT)

This English Tourism Week, we’re turning up the volume on music tourism.

If you know us, you know we’re constantly raving about Exeter’s vibrant culture, history, and music scene.

The joy of live performances plays a vital role in supporting local economies and cultural roots.

And while we’re all about making noise about grassroots music venues, the musicians that fill their acoustics, and the local businesses that make up a city’s music scene, our goal is to inspire people.

To not just attend gigs and keep these venues from closing but also support the locality, their culture, and the independents.

So, without further ado. Here are our six hits for music tourists. Don’t clock out after rocking out; check these out.

Exeter Quay, where history, music, and adventure flow together.

The Quayside is the ultimate go-to for diverse shops, delicious eats, evening beats and water adventures.

Catch the riverside rhythms at Bomba, where genres span from Afrobeat to Electronica or busk in the basement with local and international acts at Move.

Fancy a brew with a view? Topsham Brewery & Taproom pairs craft beers with live tunes. It also serves Neapolitan-inspired pizzas straight from its on-site van to hungry patrons.

Summer at The Quay is a nonstop celebration. There’s always something in the air: Jazz on the Quay, Shanty Festivals, and Literary Feasts.

But before the music, there is plenty to do and see.

Explore riverside scenes by bike from Saddles and Paddles, paddle out on the water with their range of hire options or those from Kayak Hub and AS Watersports.

For climbing enthusiasts, The Quay Climbing Centre offers awesome routes for all levels within the city’s historic electricity building.

Finally, the Quay’s independent shops and eateries are unique and filled with local craftsmanship and delicious waterside eats.

Check out Quay Presents, Eclectique, and Mangos.

See you down the Quay!

The timeless grandeur of Powderham Castle is a real testament to history and heritage nestled on the banks of the River Exe.

Home to Charlie, the 19th Earl of Devon, Powderham has stood majestically since its foundations were laid by Sir Philip Courtenay in 1391.

Despite the echoes of civil wars and centuries of change, it remains a beacon of continuity, lovingly preserved by the same family lineage.

Enthralling guided tours bring to life tales of secret doors, spectral presences on the haunted landing, and architectural marvels that span ages.

We recommend setting aside at least three hours before your music event to immerse fully in the experience, allowing you to wander through the vast gardens and grounds.

Powderham is about the past – yes – but it’s also a resounding cultural hub that hosts an exhibition of music events and festivals.

Pete Tong’s,  Tom Jones, UB40, Bastille and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Powderham has seen legends grace its grounds. Annual festivals grace the grounds, too, including the annual Gone Wild Festival, the retro fun of Let’s Rock, and the unforgettable Radio 1’s Big Weekend 2016.