How it rates
Exeter may be a city but it is small enough to offer great views of green hills from its centre. This university city in Devon is a magnet for stressed out downshifters from the South East as well as shoppers and day trippers. Many are expected to stream into the area for its summer arts festival, which starts today. Information at exeter.gov.uk/summerfestival.
Travel
Trains to London Paddington take about 2½ hours. Motorists have easy access to the M5, M3 and A38, and Exeter International Airport.
Quality of life
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Exeter is very laid-back, with Dartmoor National Park and great beaches near by. Those who can’t make it to the coast can picnic at Belle Isle Park, Ludwell Valley Park and Heavitree Park, or hang out at the University of Exeter’s outdoor pool.
Architectural gems
The city suffered badly in a German bombing raid in 1942, but some excellent buildings remain, such as the Gothic cathedral (completed in the 14th century) and the recently restored 13th-century Guildhall.
Smartest streets
St Leonards is popular for its tall Georgian houses and contemporary homes built in the past few years on the site of demolished postwar houses. Expect to pay at least £600,000 for three or more bedrooms. For solid red-brick Victorian stock, head to the Pennsylvania area. Three-bedroom houses here cost between £175,000 and £350,000.
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Restaurants
The Michael Caines restaurant at the Abode hotel is a fancy option, along with the Cat in the Hat, St Leonards. Also popular are Angela’s and The Conservatory.
Night life
There’s lots of live music in town. The Cavern Club is a favourite for indie bands; the Phoenix arts centre and Mama Stone’s are popular venues.
Education
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Exeter is home to the University of Exeter. Exeter College offers further education and sixth form, while St James School, which specialises in maths and computing, was described by Ofsted as “good with outstanding features”. The independent Exeter School educates boys and girls aged from 7 to 18; the Cathedral School takes children from 3 to 13.
Working life
University of Exeter, Devon County Council and the Met Office are the biggest employers, but the Bank of England and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) have regional offices here.
Political life
Ben Bradshaw, the former journalist and broadcaster, has been Exeter’s Labour MP since 1997.
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Upside
Exeter is small but perfectly formed. You have everything you need without the big-city hassle.
Downside
The influx of pensioners to the region risks straining local health services.