Hidden Treasures in Exeter to Explore
Exeter Cathedral and the Historic Quayside are among the key attractions in this city, but what hidden treasures are worth discovering here? The following are some of the attractions that not every visitor is aware of, and that some locals might not have stumbled upon yet.
The Historical Digital Slides
The University of Exeter has a digital collection online that includes some incredible images from the past. This includes a series of slides that come from a Magic Lantern collection and that have now been digitised. A pre-cinematic treasure, these slides were designed to be projected onto the wall to create an enchanting presentation. The drawings are based on original images such as those from Lewis Carroll’s famous books, but with some alterations to avoid copyright issues.
Carroll’s legacy lives on in other ways, with his famous characters turning up in TV shows and movies as well as in other parts of popular entertainment. We see its influence in 1999’s The Matrix, where references such as the white rabbit and down the rabbit hole add to the red pill or blue pill decision that draws on his stories. This Adventures Beyond Wonderland casino game by Playtech takes the adventure to a new setting with wheel-based gambling. A human presenter dresses in character while the background adds to the theme. Three bonus games can be triggered, with the same theme continuing through them.
Parliament Street is the Narrowest in the UK
If you ever meet someone walking the opposite way along Exeter’s Parliament Street then you’ll realise what this street’s claim to fame is. It’s so narrow that two people can’t pass each other on it. This 14th-century street is the narrowest in the UK and can be found just off the city’s High Street, although it’s easy to miss it when walking past.
Originally called Small Lane, Parliament Street is around 50 metres long and reaches just 25 inches wide at its narrowest section. The plaque at the entrance to this skinny street states that it’s believed to be the narrowest in the world. However, since it was erected, researchers have discovered that the German city of Reutlingen has a street named Spreuerhofstrasse that reduces to just 12 inches wide in points.
Underground Passages
Another medieval delight from the 14th century, Exeter’s Underground Passages were originally built to allow pipes to bring clean water to the residences. Little did they know that this would eventually evolve into a unique and quirky tourist attraction. The Underground Passages Heritage Centre is the best place to get started with an interactive visit.
It’s the only series of underground passages of this type in the country. You can visit at any time of year, but it gets particularly busy during peak holiday periods or when special events are held. You’ll visit them as part of a guided tour that lets you hear all about their history and how they were used.
By exploring these and other hidden treasures, you get to see a side of Exeter that not everyone is aware of — and these secret delights only scratch the surface.
