The Corn Exchange is Exeter’s largest city centre venue with Comedy, Dance, Music and much more. The theatre, business, music and entertainment venue is located in the heart of centre and offers a full and diverse programme of events and shows. The Corn Exchange is conveniently situated for good public transport links and parking, and nearby plenty of pubs and restaurants for the Exeter dweller.
The current building opened in 1961. On two days a week, the first floor (called St George’s Hall) was used as a corn exchange and as an events hall; on other days, the ground floor became St George’s Market.
In 2007, the venue had a partial upgrade with the old toilets being replaced and retractable tiered seating being introduced. It was renamed Exeter Corn Exchange, recalling its original use, and this transformed the venue, changing it from what was basically a large community hall which hosted the occasional show to become an important part of Exeter’s cultural scene, as promoters took note of the city’s ‘new’ venue.
In 2020, the city council commissioned a report to consider the need for a new major venue for the city; the report highlighted that the best option would be to completely redevelop the Corn Exchange into a new, large, multi-purpose venue. The onset of Covid 19 and the resultant financial pressures on the Council meant that this couldn’t be progressed. A new venue for the city does, however, remain an aspiration for the city council when conditions make this possible.
Venue Details:
Venue Name: Exeter Corn Exchange
Address: Market Street, Exeter, EX1 1BW
Contact Email: box.office@exeter.gov.uk
Contact Phone Number: 01392 665938
Music Genre(s) and Themes:
What genres of music are regularly performed at your venue? All sorts! Folk, Rock, Motown, Soul, Pop, Musicals, Northern Soul, Classical, Tribute Acts. We include ‘An Evening With…’ shows in our programme, often with musicians, hosting John Lydon, Martin Fry, Francis Rossi, Paul Young, Marti Pellow, and Suggs; and there is also a bi-monthly Record Fair at the venue.
Event Information:
Tell us about your upcoming events or recurring music nights: Upcoming – Police Dog Hogan, Descendants of Decadence, and Will Young, Steeleye Span, The Drifters, Shaun Ryder (an evening with), and tribute shows Diana & Lionel – Endless Love the Show, The Stadium Rock Experience, The ELO Encounter, and The Ultimate Commitments and Blues Brothers Experience, Letz Zep, The Simon & Garfunkel Story.
What are some memorable past events or collaborations? The venue has been running for over 60 years so we’re not short of great past events. Seth Lakeman, Joan Armatrading, Stiff Little Fingers, Scouting For Girls, Tommy Emmanuel, Ward Thomas, Flo & Joan, The Dubliners, Billy Bragg, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, T’Pau, Australian Pink Floyd…
What is the average cost of tickets? £20-£30
Venue facilities:
Describe the capacity of your venue (standing/seated): 500
Are any specific amenities available at your venue (e.g., bar, dance floor, outdoor seating)? Bar, flexible seating which can be theatre or cabaret style, or a mix of dancefloor and unreserved seating.
Is there disability access? Yes. Check our website for more information.
Is there a cloakroom? This can be arranged for specific events when required.
Food/Drink? Full bar, alcoholic and soft beverages, teas and coffees, also serving snacks (nuts, crisps, sweets).
Dogs allowed? Assistance Dogs only
Accommodation and Travel:
Are there any nearby accommodations that you recommend to visitors attending your events? We’re in the city centre so there are many hotels available. Hotel du Vin, the Southernhay House Hotel and Hotel Indigo are close by for a comfortable night!
Are there public transport links nearby? Exeter Central Station is less than 10 minutes’ walk from the Venue, and there are buses throughout the city, with a stop 1 minute walk away.
Eateries and Refreshments:
Does your venue provide food/refreshments? This depends on the event. There is a pizza operation and buffets, and other food, are offered as appropriate.
Can you name 3/4 recommended eateries or restaurants near your venue? The Fat Pig, Namaste, Portal Pizza, The Hourglass Inn.
Places of Interest:
Are there any notable attractions, landmarks, or points of interest near your venue that visitors may enjoy exploring? Exeter Cathedral, the Underground Passages, The RAMM.
Is there a recommended record shop/music shop/place of musical interest nearby? The Corn Exchange is a stone’s throw from Fore Street, with Rooster Records, and, brand new music shop, The Music Depot side by side; further down the hill in McCoy’s Arcade you’ll find Life Guitars, and Francis Kay selling vintage technology including Hi-Fis, radios, and record players!
THE FUN PART
Quick-fire Faves
Most memorable gig? Suggs (2021) for music, Eddie/Suzy Izzard (1995) for comedy.
Best booking so far for 2024? The Zombies
Describe the venue in three words? Friendly, Flexible, Eclectic.
If the venue was a song, what would it be? Variety is the Spice of Life – The Doors.
