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Exploring Exeter’s Best Breweries and Pubs
I visit several notable breweries, taprooms and pubs in Exeter, highlighting their unique atmospheres and offerings. Topsham Brewery & Taproom, established in 2018, features a rustic and inviting space where customers can enjoy various ales brewed on site. Cuckoo Taproom, opened in 2021, revitalises the local scene with events and a cosy vibe. Historically significant pubs like The Turks Head and The Hourglass offer unique artisanal brews alongside charm. Newer spots like Arcadia by Utopian and Tabac Taphouse present eclectic décor and diverse beer selections. Overall, the post showcases Exeter’s vibrant craft beer culture and community spirit.
Exeter has a long and layered history. It began as a Roman settlement called Isca, and parts of the old Roman walls still stand today. Over time, it grew into a busy Saxon town and later became known for its wool trade during the medieval period. The cathedral, built between the 12th and 15th centuries, is still one of the city’s main landmarks. Exeter played a role in the English Civil War and saw changes during the Industrial Revolution too. These days, it’s a mix of historic buildings, green spaces, and a busy student population, with plenty of old-meets-new charm.
Topsham Brewery & Taproom
My first visit in Exeter is to Topsham Brewery & Taproom. This opened at Exeter Quay in late 2018, founded by Declan Beeson, Eric Eveleigh, and Jason Virok, after brewing began earlier that year in an industrial unit. Housed in two listed stone warehouses from around 200 years ago, it moved to its current home in 2019 and brews on-site.
Inside you’ll find yourself in a warm space nestled within thick, exposed stone walls. It’s cosy yet bustling: long wooden bench tables, plank‑flooring, and vaulted timber beams give a rustic-industrial charm. Overhead, dried hops and Edison bulbs decorate the ceiling, and behind the polished bar you’ll spot 7 keg taps, 8 serving tanks and 2 cask taps beneath chalkboard menus—all set against a stone backdrop, recreating a reclaimed-warehouse vibe .
Outside a lovely riverside garden and waterside seating which offers a fantastic backdrop to enjoying a beer. Inside you can take a sneak peek at their brewing setup through a window in the seating area. I went with one of their keg options, “Load Bearing Poster”. A super tasty, super juicy and hazy New England IPA, packed full of flavour and very enjoyable.
Cuckoo Taproom & Bottleshop
Second up in Exeter is Cuckoo Taproom & Bottleshop. This opened in May 2021 on Paris Street in a building once used for retail near the city centre. Founded by Joel Barnard, it was part of a wave of independent businesses revitalising post-pandemic Exeter. The taproom quickly became a cultural hub, hosting events like storytelling nights and pub quizzes that drew a loyal following. Its name, “Cuckoo,” symbolised creativity and reimagining old spaces. With its welcoming atmosphere and strong local ties, Cuckoo played a role in reenergising Exeter’s high street, turning a formerly quiet corner into a lively social gathering spot.
Inside has a cosy, creative interior with a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Inside, you’ll find mismatched furniture, quirky art, and warm lighting that gives the space a homely, lived-in feel. Hand-painted signs and chalkboards add a personal touch, while the open layout encourages conversation and community. Local artwork and vintage touches add even more to the space.
Drinks wise a brilliant line up of 10 keg lines, alongside 2 cask ales. Great to see the Coast to Coast 2025 beers on from Verdant and Floc, and on both cask and keg. In here I went with a collaboration between Floc and Verdant Brewing Co, brewed for Coast to Coast 25. “What We Do” is a delicious double dry hopped pale ale, with lots of tropical flavours from the Nectaron, Mosaic and Simcoe hops used.
The Turks Head
The Turks Head in Exeter is a historic pub with origins dating back to the 1500s. Located on Exeter High Street, it became famous in the 19th century when Charles Dickens frequented it while working as a reporter, inspiring a character in The Pickwick Papers and lending its name to their flagship ale “Fat Boy”. Over the centuries, the Turks Head has seen several renovations but retains much of its old charm. It closed for a time but was recently restored and reopened. It now houses an on‑site micro‑brewery producing five regular beers like Dickies Best, Crusader, Hand Off, Witches Brew, and Gods Little Cows alongside seasonal and one off specials.
Walking inside feels like entering a warm, historic embrace. Rustic wooden beams, exposed stone walls and fireplaces create intimate nooks—such as “Dickens Corner” downstairs. Mismatched chairs, leather banquettes and industrial‑style low‑hanging lights lend a cosy yet lively vibe, perfect for a snug pint. The central micro‑brewery gleams behind glass, adding theatrical charm to the spacious ground‑floor bar. Upstairs, big‑screen TVs for live sport share space with a bright roof terrace.
On the bar a choice of 4 cask ales, 3 of which are brewed on site along with a selection of keg beers brewed themselves alongside normal keg options. Lots of choice! I went with “Golden Axe” which has been brewed on site. A clear, crisp and enjoyable blonde ale.
Exeter Brewery
Back into Exeter and a short walk from Exeter St Davids Railway Station brings me to Exeter Brewery. Exeter Brewery has deep roots going back to 1834, when Benjamin Salter and the Owen family started the original brewery. Today’s Exeter Brewery began in 2003 as Topsham & Exminster Brewery before moving to its current spot on Cowley Bridge Road in 2013. They’re well-known for brewing organic beers and being really involved with the local community. A cool bit of history is that a portrait of Benjamin Salter, one of the founders, now hangs in their taproom which was returned by his descendant in 2012. It’s a place that blends tradition with modern craft brewing vibes, right in the heart of Exeter.
As you enter you walk past the brewery setup which can be seen through large windows. The door to the taproom features a tap from a barrel which is unique and something I have not seen before. Inside the taproom has a cosy, rustic vibe with big wooden tables and benches perfect for chilling out. There’s a small balcony that looks out over the railway tracks, adding a unique touch to the space.
On the bar a selection of 4 cask ales and a few keg options to choose from. I opted to go with “Ferryman” from Exeter Brewery. This was their first beer back in 2003 when they were called Topsham & Exminster Brewery. A great, full bodied and tasty English Bitter.
Pig & Pickle
A bus to the other side of Exeter for my next visit. Pig & Pickle is a charming little micropub located in Heavitree. It opened its doors fairly recently as part of a wave of independent pubs popping up around the city. The spot quickly became a local favourite thanks to its friendly vibe and community feel. The name “Pig & Pickle” hints at a playful, down-to-earth spirit, reflecting the owners’ passion for keeping things simple and welcoming. While the building itself isn’t centuries old, the pub embraces Exeter’s strong tradition of cosy, small-scale gathering spots. It’s a fresh take on a classic pub experience.
Inside you’re met with a cosy, inviting feel. The space is small but thoughtfully designed, with white wood panelling and warm red accents that give it a friendly, relaxed feel. There’s a mix of comfy seating—think wooden stools and snug benches—perfect for chatting or chilling with mates. The lighting is soft and welcoming, making it easy to settle in for a good time. It’s the kind of place that feels like your local living room, where everyone’s welcome.
Was great sat chatting to Andrew, one of their regulars outside this evening. On the bar a choice of 2 cask ales, a handpull cider and 6 keg lines. “Winnie & George” from Stannary Brewing Company was my beer selection here. A delicious dry hopped English Bitter.
The Hourglass
Next up is a 20 minute walk away to The Hourglass. This is a real local gem with a rich history dating back to 1846. Its unique wedge-shaped building sits just above the Quay on Melbourne Street, making it one of the city’s most distinctive pubs. Over the years, it’s seen Exeter grow and change around it, serving as a social hub for sailors, dockworkers, and locals alike. The building’s quirky shape comes from the triangular plot of land it was built on, giving it a character all its own. Exeter Brewery took over the Hour Glass pub in late 2021, reopening it on December 8 after a period of closure. The pub had shut its doors in May 2021.
Inside, you’ll find a warm, rustic atmosphere with well-worn wooden floors and eclectic décor. The space is divided into several intimate rooms, each with its own charm. Vintage touches like old motor horns, framed World Cup posters, and wooden barrels above the bar add to the pub’s unique character. The front bar features Fifties-style windows etched with “City Ales Brewery,” a nod to Exeter’s brewing history.
On the bar a great line up of 6 cask ales alongside a range of keg beers. A nice mix of styles. “‘fraidNot” was my beer selection, by Exeter Brewery. A very light, refreshing and easy drinking pale ale.
The Fat Pig
Next up is The Fat Pig in Exeter. This pub was originally called the Coachmakers Arms and has been part of the local scene for many years. It closed down in 2007 but was revived in 2008 by two brothers who restored its old Victorian charm. Over the years, it has become a popular spot in Exeter’s West Quarter, loved for its friendly atmosphere and connection to the area’s history.
Inside has a distinctive interior that blends rustic charm with quirky touches. Upon entering, you are greeted by a warm, inviting space featuring exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and a mix of vintage and contemporary décor. The main bar area is adorned with eclectic artwork, potted plants, and a cosy fireplace, creating a homely atmosphere. A few steps lead down to a lower seating area with tiled floors and additional seating options. The pub’s layout includes both intimate corners and larger communal tables.
2 cask ales on the bar alongside a great selection of keg beers to choose from. Lots of choice in here. “Yellow Hammer” from local Hanlons Brewery was my beer choice. A refreshing, light, tasty and full of flavour pale ale, which was very easy drinking.
Arcadia by Utopian
Back on the bus into Exeter for my final 4 visits of the evening. The first being to Arcadia By Utopian . This opened up in early 2025 right in the heart of Exeter, inside a cool old building on Northernhay Place. The whole project got off the ground thanks to a crowdfunding campaign where locals showed loads of love and support. They wanted to create a place that mixes Exeter’s history with a fresh, friendly feel. The building’s original features were kept to give it that classic feel, while making it a relaxed spot for people to enjoy.
Utopian Brewing Limited was founded in 2019 by Richard Archer and his wife Gill in Devon, UK. They relocated from London to convert two former farm barns into a brewery. Head brewer Jeremy Swainson, trained in Germany, joined in late 2018.The brewery produces award-winning lagers using 100% British-grown ingredients and sustainable practices.
Inside the space features exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and large windows that flood the room with natural light. The layout is open and welcoming, with plenty of cosy seating areas for groups or solo visitors. Thoughtful lighting and greenery add warmth and a relaxed feel. The design highlights local craftsmanship, combining rustic elements with contemporary touches.
Was great meeting and chatting to Adam this evening. On the bar a mix of 3 cask ales and 12 keg lines to choose from in a range of styles. I went with “Wondorus Isle” from Utopian Brewing Ltd. A super tasty West Coast Pale Ale. Full of flavour and very easy drinking.
Tabac Taphouse
Next up is Tabac Taphouse. This is a quirky, intimate bar located just outside Exeter Central Station. Opened in the 2010s, it quickly became a local favourite for its relaxed vibe and unique setting. Despite its compact size, Tabac Taphouse offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The bar is known for its eclectic décor, featuring walls adorned with vintage tobacco-related memorabilia, adding to its distinctive character.
The walls are decorated with old tobacco memorabilia, giving the space a unique character that feels both nostalgic and quirky. The lighting is warm and soft, creating a relaxed vibe perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet moment. Despite being small, the layout feels intimate without being cramped, thanks to thoughtful design and comfortable seating. Outdoor seating is available at the front.
A range of different keg options are available on the bar and the best choice of spirits in the city. I went with “Trail Blazer” from Powderkeg,. A malty red IPA which was delicious with some great flavours coming through.
Little Drop of Poison
Onto Little Drop Of Poison, tucked away on Fore Street in Exeter. This pub has a pretty cool history. The building dates back to the 1800s and started life as an old apothecary called The Medicine and Chemical Hall which was basically a 19th-century chemist. Around the 1870s, it became a pub named Star Stores, and later was renamed The Mint, which served drinks right up until 2015. After a bit of a break, it got a new lease on life in 2018 when it reopened as Little Drop of Poison. The name nods to its medicinal past.
Inside is a small space but one full of character. Think mismatched furniture, low lighting, and a bit of a vintage feel. There’s a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, whether you’re popping in for a quiet pint or catching some live music. The walls are covered in local art and gig posters, and the whole place feels like a laid-back living room for the community. It’s the kind of pub where you can strike up a chat with strangers or just enjoy a chilled evening.
Great meeting and chatting to James in here today and he was offering a great line up of keg beers in a fantastic range of styles and strengths. Lots to choose from. “They Live” from Neon Raptor Brewing Co was my selection in here. An alien blue sour bubblegum beer.
The Holt
Last up is The Holt on Cathedral Close. This is a hidden gem tucked just off Exeter’s Cathedral Close, through a medieval archway. Set in a beautiful 12th-century building, it’s full of historic charm—think vaulted ceilings, old fireplaces, and timber frames. The place has seen centuries of Exeter life and now serves as a relaxed spot to take in the city’s atmosphere. It opened as part of Otter Brewery’s expansion in 2025, bringing new life to a building that’s been standing since the Middle Ages. Whether you’re into history or just want a quiet moment near the cathedral, it’s a lovely little find.
Step inside and you’re met with vaulted ceilings, old stone walls, and original fireplaces that give the place a timeless feel. It’s full of little nooks, wooden beams, and soft light—perfect for a peaceful break in the city. The secluded courtyard garden adds to the charm, offering a quiet spot just steps from the buzz of Cathedral Yard.
On the bar a selection of 3 cask ales alongside a number of keg options to select from. My choice was “Otter Bright” from Otter Brewery. A light, sessionable and full of flavour blonde ale.
Micropub Adventures 