Entertainment and gaming hotspots to check out on your visit to Exeter

From amazing food to historical buildings and great weather, there are plenty of reasons to visit Exeter. But what if you’re looking for entertainment and gaming possibilities in Devon? There are a number of reasons to visit Exeter if you’re looking for these activities – we’ll discuss these below.

A variety of outdoor activities and games

One of the things that visitors to Exeter love the most is the variety of outdoor activities and games on offer. From horse riding to cycling and canoeing, there are many ways to enjoy the great outdoors and get some exercise here. 

If you prefer to watch others taking part, then you could head to St James Park to see Exeter City Football Club playing its home games. Exeter City Women’s Football Club also plays some games in the stadium, with others played in Newton Abbot. The women’s team had a hugely successful season in 2023-24, earning promotion and going the full season unbeaten.

The Exeter Chiefs is the biggest of the rugby clubs here, with Argentine player Franco Molina recently signing for the team. Cricket and rowing are among the other popular sports in the city. The City of Exeter Rowing Regatta takes place each July and is regarded as the biggest regatta in the South West of England, with its history going back to the 1860s. 

Watch races at Exeter Racecourse

Exeter Racecourse has a picturesque setting at the top of the Haldon Hills and features 17 days of jump racing during the year. The facilities here include a restaurant and hospitality packages. This is one of the country’s oldest horse racing venues – there are records of races being held in Exeter from the start of the 19th century onwards.

The facilities vary depending on the stand you watch the races from. The newest area, the Haldon Stand, was opened in 2004. Premier ticket holders can enjoy a bar and the Desert Orchid Restaurant in this part of the venue. The Haldon Gold Cup in November is currently the biggest race held here and is well worth attending.

Play bingo and casino games in Exeter

Bingo is a popular game in Exeter, with several hugely popular bingo halls operating here over the years. Many were former cinemas that were converted into bingo halls in the 1960s and 1970s, when it became a much-loved social event and everyone wanted to head out for a few games.

Bingo has now largely gone online, which is similar to the way that slots and other casino games have developed since the turn of the century. It’s still possible to find somewhere to play these games, but online casinos make it more convenient for players looking to find both the latest titles and classic games. 

Promotions such as no-deposit casino bonuses allow newcomers to start playing without making a cash deposit. This type of offer is available once a new player registers at a casino, and any winnings can be withdrawn once the terms and conditions have been met. Free spins and cashback deals are among the other types of promotions that are typically offered in online casinos.  

Watch shows at Westpoint Arena 

The Westpoint Arena is the biggest entertainment venue in the South West and has a handy location close to Exeter Airport. It has capacity of 7,500 and was originally built for the Devon County Show, which is held here each May. This show features aspects of country life such as tractors and horses, as well as dog shows, crafts and a lot more.

We’ve also seen major artists such as David Bowie, Oasis and Elton John hold large-scale concerts in this venue. If you’re looking for top shows such as Disney On Ice, then this venue is where you’re most likely to see something lined up. The Comic Con & Gaming Festival and the Motorhome & Campervan Show are among the upcoming events listed on the official website. 

The variety of entertainment and gaming opportunities across Exeter means that it’s possible to find different ways of being entertained and taking part regardless of what your interests are.