Events

Events

Welcome to Exeter’s Heritage Harbour.


Free Red Coat Guided Tour: Exeter’s Historic Quayside

Free Red Coat Guided Tour: Exeter’s Historic Quayside

Sundays at 11am

Discover the port of Exeter, which was once one of Britain's busiest and hear about its fascinating history. Stroll out and back along the river and canal. Starts and finishes at the Exeter Custom House.

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‘Bowlines’

‘Bowlines’

June 6, 2025 - June 7, 2024

For the first time ever, we’re hosting a maritime literature festival. It will bring together maritime historians and maritime fiction writers to discuss their work. The event will be based in The Custom House, Topsham Brewery and the Haven Banks Centre. This is a national event planned with The Society for Nautical Research, the Lloyds Registry Foundation and Exeter University.

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Afloat and Ashore

Afloat and Ashore

April 14, 2025 - May 11, 2024

Take a look at these beautiful and evocative paintings from the finalists of a competition organised by the Society and National Historic Ships UK. This national event is being presented in conjunction with The Royal Society of Marine Artists.


East Quay Maritime Heritage Crafts day

East Quay Maritime Heritage Crafts day

May 11, 2025

Head to East Quay (past Haven Banks Outdoor Centre) to meet local ship crews, celebrate traditional boatbuilding skills and learn about old boats! A celebration of traditional crafts and local vessels moored in Exeter.


Heritage Harbour Festival

Heritage Harbour Festival

June 8, 2025

Join us to celebrate Exeter’s Heritage Harbour! There will be steam boats, railways, traction engines, classic cars together with musicians and other performers. This free event will take place at the Custom House and on the Piazza.


Quayside Shanty Festival

Quayside Shanty Festival

July 5, 2025

Following the success of Exeter’s first Shanty Festival last year, we’re welcoming back the shanty bands. Held at multiple venues around the Quay. Be prepared to join in and have a stomp!

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For more events around Exeter's Heritage Harbour:

Exeter Quayside is a thriving place where there is always something taking place.

For a full list of events and activities, head to the Visit Exeter website.

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Exeter City Council
Exeter Quay and Canal Trust
Exeter Custom House
Friends of Exeter Ship Canal
Heritage Harbours
Maritime Heritage Trust
National Historic Ships UK
Historic England