We are hiking the coastal trail in Cornwall. We'll be taking the train from London to Padstow, where we begin the hike. I'm hoping to stay somewhere partway. Exeter seems like a good location.
Anyone been to Exeter? Any recommendations for what to see and do? And places to stay?
Exeter Cathedral is one of England's most famous. Built between 1270 and 1350, with the longest medieval stone vault in the world (315 feet). Nice surroundings in the middle of the city, though I understand a fire did some damage to nearby buildings since our September visit.
It's an easy train ride from London. Assuming that there's a good connection to Padstow, it would be a good place to break your journey.
The Cathedral is fine and there are some lovely buildings in the city (as well as some horrors). There are a couple of good small museums and the Royal Albert, but a day will be ample to see the sights. If you come in the rugby season, try to catch a game at Sandy Park.
Padstow is not on the rail network. It looks like you would take the train to Bodmin Parkway and then catch a bus for the 1 hour journey to Padstow. See >http://www.traveline.info
(Newquay is on the rail network as is St.Ives).
Exeter is quite a nice place but a fire recently damaged buildings on the Cathedral green. If you do visit, the quay area is worth a look.
I like Exeter and the cathedral is well worth a visit. The town was heavily bombed during WW2 so it's a mix of old and new. Very nice place though!
