Name: Exeter's Underground Passages
Rating: 5.0

Exeter's Underground Passages

Exeter's Underground Passages, Paris Street, Exeter, UK

1-90 Years

Paid

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Description

Exeter's Underground Passages offer a rare and slightly eerie adventure through a hidden network of medieval tunnels running beneath the city’s busy streets. Originally built in the 14th century to house lead pipes that brought fresh water into the city, these narrow stone passages are unique in Britain as the only system of their type open for public exploration. It is widely considered one of the best things to do with kids in Exeter for those seeking a unique, atmospheric, and educational journey back in time.

Prices start from £6.00 for children (aged 5-17), while family tickets for up to two adults and three children are available for £25.00. To protect the safety of younger visitors in the dark and narrow environment, children under five are not permitted on the tours, though they can still access the interactive exhibition for free with an adult.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines mystery, history, and a touch of underground adventure, these passages are a top choice. The experience is fast-paced and informative, with knowledgeable guides bringing medieval engineering and local legends to life as you navigate the low-ceilinged tunnels.

Features

Paid
Host birthday parties: No

Features

Key Features

Sensory Play: Kids get to don hard hats and navigate dark, vaulted tunnels where they can touch the 500-year-old stone walls and experience total darkness at the end of the tour.
Interactive Exhibits: The Heritage Centre is packed with hands-on displays, including a high-speed video fly-through and a talking figure of a medieval man.
Educational Day Out: Families learn about the incredible feat of medieval engineering that provided clean water to the city, as well as the tunnels' later use as air-raid shelters during The Blitz.
Historical Mystery: Explore the "Witches of Exeter" stories and look for original hand and foot holds used by workers centuries ago.

Highlights for Families

The Medieval Section: Step into the oldest part of the network, which widens out to reveal original city defense structures and 500-year-old stone slabs.
Interactive Heritage Centre: Before heading down, kids can explore full-size models of the passages and view artifacts found during local archaeological digs.
The 10-Minute Film: A short introductory presentation that provides the historical background and "scary" context needed to enjoy the tour.
The Statue of Queen Elizabeth I: A rare 16th-century statue that holds a place of honor within the Heritage Centre exhibits.
The Blitz Remnants: See sections of the passages that were damaged during the 1942 air raids and hear stories of the 300 residents who supposedly took shelter there.

Detailed Inventory

Tour Components: 10-minute film, 25-minute guided underground walk, and self-guided exhibition time.
Special Events: Seasonal activities include Easter egg hunts, "Beneath the Blitz" historical experiences, and Halloween "gory stories" tours.
Safety Equipment: Hard hats are provided for all visitors and must be worn throughout the tour due to low ceilings.
Beyond the Main Attraction: The passages are located in the heart of Exeter, a short walk from the Princesshay shopping area and the Exeter Cathedral.

Facilities

Toilets: Accessible toilet facilities are available within the Heritage Centre for visitors.
Buggy Parking: Pushchair access is strictly limited to the exhibition area; buggies cannot be taken into the passages.
Gift Shop: A small shop on-site sells a range of historical gifts and souvenirs.

What to see

What Visitors Love

Immersive Atmosphere: Parents often mention that the lighting and narrowness of the tunnels create a genuine sense of adventure for older kids.
Engaging Guides: The tour guides are frequently praised for their storytelling and for keeping children interested with "harrowing" and fun facts.
Educational Depth: Many families appreciate that the visit is more than just a walk; it provides a real lesson in archaeology and history.
Photo Opportunities: Despite being underground, the lighting is sufficient for taking atmospheric photos of the family in their hard hats.

What Visitors Don't Like

Strict Age Limit: Families with children under five are often disappointed that their youngest can't join the full experience.
Confined Spaces: Some visitors find the tunnels a bit too narrow or low, particularly if they are taller or suffer from claustrophobia.
Wait Times: If you haven't booked in advance, wait times for the next available tour can be long during peak periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth it for toddlers?: Generally, no. Children under five are not allowed on the guided tours for safety reasons. While they can visit the Heritage Centre for free, the main attraction is the underground walk, so it is best saved for when they are five or older.
How long does a visit take?: A standard visit takes about 60 minutes. This includes 15 minutes to browse the exhibition, 10 minutes for the film, and 25-30 minutes for the guided tour.
Where is the best place to park?: The Princesshay car park is the most convenient option as it is just a few minutes' walk from the entrance. For longer stays, the Mary Arches Street or Magdalen Street car parks offer slightly different rates and are within easy walking distance.
Are there cheap indoor activities in Exeter?: Yes, the Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM) is just a short walk away and offers free entry. It's an excellent "cheap indoor activity in Exeter" that you can easily pair with a trip to the passages for a full day out.

Uncover the secrets beneath the streets! Book your tour here.

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Price

Price: Paid

Price Details

Adult: £9.00
Child (5-17): £6.00
Concession (Students/60+): £7.00
Family (2 Adults + up to 3 Children): £25.00
Under 5s: Free (Exhibition only)
Groups (10+): Discounted rates available (Adult £7.50, Child £5.00) with 14 days' notice.

Pricing URL: https://www.visitexeter.com/things-to-do/exeters-underground-passages-p134013

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

Thursday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Note: Closed Monday to Wednesday (except during summer holidays when Wednesdays are often open).

Address: Exeter's Underground Passages, Paris Street, Exeter, UK

Post Code: EX4 3PZ

Council: Exeter

County: Devon

By Car: Use postcode EX4 3RX. The passages are located in Paris Street. The nearest parking is at the Princesshay or Mary Arches Street car parks.
By Train: Exeter Central is a 10-minute walk away, while Exeter St Davids is a slightly longer 20-minute walk or a short bus ride.
By Bus: Most local buses stop at the nearby High Street or the main bus station, which is just a 5-minute walk from the entrance.