Living And Working In Exeter

Exeter is a small city in the county of Devon, around 175 miles from London and is situated in the south west of England. It lies by the appropriately named River Exe which originates from Exmoor before reaching its destination, the sea at Exmouth. Exeter is only ten miles inland from the English Channel coast. Exeter has its own airport, regular trains to London and major routes out of the city via the M5.

Evidence indicates that Exeter has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The Romans later established a fort at Isca Dumnoniorum which later became the city of Exeter. The Industrial Revolution in the 18th century transformed Exeter’s economy and the city became a centre for manufacturing, particularly in the textile industry as well as leather and agriculture. The Exeter Ship Canal facilitated trade and transportation and the arrival of the railway in the 19th century further boosted Exeter’s economy and connectivity.

Now Exeter is a flourishing and ambitious city with a fast growing, strong economy which  often outperforms many locations within the UK regarding the ability to create jobs. It is the administrative and cultural centre of Devon.

The University of Exeter is a major driver of the local economy and is a significant employer. It plays a leading role in research and innovation. In addition to the university, Exeter has several colleges offering vocational and further education, contributing to the skills development of the local workforce.

The public sector is a significant employer in Exeter with local government, education, healthcare and other public services providing jobs and services to the community. The Royal Devon and Exeter NHs Foundation is a major healthcare provider, employing thousands of people.

Beyond public healthcare, Exeter is home to various life sciences companies, focusing on medical technology and pharmaceuticals. The city’s healthcare sector benefits from partnerships with the University of Exeter and other research institutions, driving innovation in medical practices and technologies.

Exeter is becoming increasingly known for its technology and digital industries and there is growing focus on software development, web design and IT consulting.

The surrounding Devon countryside supports agriculture, particularly dairy farming and crop production. Local food producers contribute to Exeter’s food and drink supply which includes local producers, restaurants and pubs, many of which emphasise locally sourced ingredients. The hospitality sector thrives on both tourism and local demand.

A town with a long and fascinating history, Exeter boasts a wealth of attractions such as  Exeter Cathedral which is one of Europe's most splendid Gothic cathedrals and is over a thousand years old. The city’s walls are a significant historical feature, tracing back to the Roman era and around 70% of the original wall exists today with sections around Rougemont Castle (once a Norman military stronghold), Northernhay Gardens (one of the oldest public open spaces in England) and the medieval Cathedral Close. The walls serve as a testament to Exeter’s enduring legacy. The fascinating Underground Passages were originally built to contain pipes that supplied medieval Exeter with drinking water and are open to the public. The Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery has a wealth of fascinating displays and of course not forgetting the Historic Quayside which has undergone a fantastic transformation whilst still managing to retain its historical atmosphere.

Exeter has a bustling retail scene with a mix of high street shops, independent boutiques and shopping centres like Princesshay and the Guildhall Shopping Centre. Exeter also hosts various markets, including farmers markets and arts and crafts markets which support local producers and artisans.

Exeter is considered to be one of the healthiest places to live in the UK and due to the many parks and green spaces, Exeter has been listed as one of the greenest locations within the UK.

On the outskirts of Exeter, there are six Valley Parks which are managed by the Wildlife Trust and are often described as ‘countryside within the city’. The River Exe offers some spectacular scenery, much of which is rich in wildlife including otters, kingfishers and is renowned for its well stocked salmon. Exeter is a thriving city which is set within a network of equally thriving rural and coastal towns and villages. Due to the superb quality of life, the balance between urban and rural and the charming green spaces, Exeter is a fantastic choice for both living and working.

The next event being hosted by the UK Careers Fair will be held on October 23rd between 10am - 2pm. The venue is Mercure Exeter Rougemont Hotel, EX4 3SP. This spacious and elegant four star hotel dates back from the Victorian period and maintains many original features while offering all modern amenities.