3 Best Landmarks in Exeter, UK

Rougemont Castle, also known as Exeter Castle, is the historic castle of the city of Exeter, Devon, England. It was built into the northern corner of the Roman city walls starting in or shortly after the year 1068, following Exeter's rebellion against William the Conqueror. In 1136 it was besieged for three months by King Stephen. An outer bailey, of which little now remains, was added later in the 12th century. The castle is mentioned in Shakespeare's play Richard III in a reference to that king's visit to Exeter in 1483. Devon's county court was located here from at least 1607, and the three Devon Witches—the last people in England to be executed for witchcraft—were tried and convicted at the Exeter Assizes in 1682. All the buildings inside the walls were swept away in the 1770s to make way for a new courthouse, which was extended by the addition of wings in 1895 and 1905. Because of its function as a court, the interior of the castle was not open to the public until the court moved to a new site in 2004. The entire site was later sold to a developer whose stated aim was to transform it into "the Covent Garden of the South West". The castle is named after the red stone found in the hill, and used in the construction of the original buildings, of which the large early Norman gatehouse is the main remaining feature. It is surrounded on three sides by the Rougemont Gardens and Northernhay Gardens, public parks now maintained by Exeter City Council.

Have been to a couple of events here. Its a fascinating venue right in the heart of Exeter which is very handy. Both the events were quite different but the venue handled the diverse requirements for the different set ups very well. I even got the chance to visit the old cells down stairs! Interesting graffiti on the cell walls.

Good place, bar & food good. Views are great so can walk around for a bit for so fresh air. It has Exeter city all around it so things can break up & people can find there way.

One of the oldest halls of England, dated back to 1160, normand foundation. Perhaps even Saxon. although the structure conserved is medieval between 15th and 16 th century. The oak door is lovely. It still continues to be the city’s council chamber, but not so long ago was the law court. The place is pretty nice. The seats have on top some names: some are majors, other benefactors, and merchants and industries. This hall was very important for the wool industry, because Exeter was one of the dominant cities and has seen lots of history... The place is usually opened from 10 am to 13 except some days which they have private events. It’s worth a visit.

I had been wanting to come to the guildhall for ages and was walking past and it was open for free tea and coffee so I took advantage and went in. I found the place friendly and welcoming ascot was their Saturday monthly coffee morning and I didn't know anyone there and just went in to look at the guildhall which is a lovely old building but got free tea and coffee out if going there.

One of the oldest buildings in Exeter and the oldest guildhall building in use in England. Extensively changed over the years inside, around the back you can still see the old prison cells.