Despite some pretty heavy bombing in World War Two, Exeter still retains its impressive Cathedral – notable for its two Norman towers. This is the centrepiece of a gentle, relaxed city, that until only recently had one of the lowest unemployment rates in the UK.

The recession has taken its toll even on Exeter, but it is still a fairly rich place; very middle class and very safe; that is, until the Royal Marines come to town and lay waste to the place. Fore Street is particularly noted for its Marine friendly pubs and clubs. Besides, during a recession, no pub or club can be fussy about letting Her Majesty’s Royal Marines in for a few bevies.

Exeter has quite a few old buildings to discover, but it also has some pretty impressive new architecture too. The new Princesshay shopping development is an ultra-modern complex of shops; mostly boutique or middle/high level clothes shops – another demonstration of just how much money is in the town currently.

For drinks and fairly good music the Timepiece Bar is good, with an extensive beer garden and tasty burgers for sale. If you’re looking for good time girls and local radio station set lists, try The Arena. If you want a fight with a Royal Marine, have a wander down Fore Street.

If you’re visiting Exeter from a city such as London, then you’re likely to notice the slower pace of life, which isn’t everyone’s cup of tea – but certainly lets people relax if they’ve been in the big smoke for too long. If you really want to get away from it, then Dartmoor isn’t far away – offering stunning landscapes and lots of fresh air!