Exeter Travel Guide

Visit Exeter and discover its natural and cultural treasures. Our travel guide provides you with a comprehensive list of places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, and more.


Introduction to Exeter

Nestled in Southern Highlands, New South Wales, Australia, Exeter is a picturesque village known for its fresh air, rolling hills, and stunning flora and fauna. If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Exeter is an idyllic choice. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will provide you with the best places to visit in Exeter, its hiking and biking routes, things to do, food and drink scene, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Exeter

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Exeter General Store: This charming colonial-era general store and post office is an iconic landmark in Exeter. The store has been restored to its original condition and offers visitors a glimpse into Exeter’s past.
  • St Aidan’s Anglican Church: Built in the 1870s, this beautiful sandstone church offers a peaceful place for visitors to reflect and unwind.
  • Wingecarribee Shire Council Chambers: The Wingecarribee Shire Council Chambers is an impressive sandstone building and home to the council offices.

Natural Attractions of Exeter: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Gibraltar: For the best views of Exeter and the surrounding regions, a hike up Mount Gibraltar is a must-do activity. On clear days, you can even see the Sydney skyline.
  • Bundanoon Creek Reserve: This beautiful reserve follows the route of Bundanoon Creek and offers a picturesque picnic spot.
  • Lake Alexandra Reserve: This serene lake is a favourite spot for water sports such as canoeing, kayaking and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Exeter

  • Mount Murray Walking Track: This is a 6 km walking trail that offers scenic views of Exeter and the surrounding regions.
  • Gibbergunyah Reserve Walking Track: This walking trail is a 5 km return trek, and it takes you through the beautiful Gibbergunyah Reserve.

Best Things to Do in Exeter: Activities and Tours

  • Exeter Farmers Market: Every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month, Exeter hosts its local farmer’s market. Here you can sample the fresh, local produce and shop for unique souvenirs.
  • Bundanoon Highland Gathering: This is a famous annual event that takes place in April and features traditional Scottish music and dances, heavy events, and pipe bands.
  • Tasting Trail: Check out local products such as locally produced cheese and wine on the Southern Highlands Tasting Trail.

Week-Long Itinerary for Exeter

| Day | Activity | |———–|————————————————————————————————| | 1 | Explore Exeter General Store and Post Office, visit St. Aidan’s Anglican Church | | 2 | Hike up Mount Gibraltar and enjoy panoramic views of Exeter and Wingecarribee Shire | | 3 | Visit Wingecarribee Shire Council Chambers | | 4 | Take a picnic and explore Bundanoon Creek Reserve and Lake Alexandra Reserve | | 5 | Do the Gibbergunyah Reserve Walking Track | | 6-7 | Attend the Bundanoon Highland Gathering and visit local wineries and cheese producers. |

Food and Drink Scene of Exeter

Must-Try Dishes

  • High Tea at Ruby’s: Indulge in a traditional English afternoon tea at Ruby’s, served with scones, Devonshire cream, and homemade jams.
  • Exeter Hotel: Enjoy classic pub fare such as fish and chips, burgers, or a hearty steak at the Exeter Hotel.

Local Beverages

  • Southern Highlands Brewing: Southern Highlands Brewing is a local craft brewery that offers an excellent range of beers and ciders made from local ingredients.

Where to Stay in Exeter: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Bundanoon Hotel: This traditional Australian pub offers comfortable rooms with ensuite facilities and is an excellent base to explore the Southern Highlands.
  • The Friendly Inn: This charming guesthouse features beautifully appointed rooms, each with its unique style and charm

What to Buy in Exeter: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Southern Highlands Cheese Company: For cheese lovers, the Southern Highlands Cheese Company offers a variety of local and imported cheeses and other delicious dairy products.
  • Robertson Pie Shop: The Robertson Pie Shop is famous for its delicious pies, croissants, and pastries and is a must-visit for foodies.

Local Culture and Customs of Exeter

Exeter is a peaceful village steeped in history and tradition. Visitors should be respectful of the local culture and customs, which emphasise the importance of community and family.

Best Time to Visit Exeter

The best time to visit Exeter is during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant and the region’s flora and fauna are at their best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Exeter

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Bring warm clothing for cooler evenings

Don’t:

  • Litter
  • Smoke in public spaces

Safety and Health

Safety in Exeter

Exeter is generally a safe destination, but visitors should take basic precautions such as keeping an eye on valuables and not leaving things unattended.

Health in Exeter

The Southern Highlands region has high-quality medical facilities, and visitors should take adequate health insurance before travelling.

Getting to Exeter: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Exeter

The nearest airport to Exeter is Sydney Airport, which is about 150 km away. From here, visitors can hire a car or take a bus to Exeter.

Bus Stations Near Exeter

The Wingecarribee Bus Lines offer services to Exeter from Sydney and other towns and cities in the Southern Highlands.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a car and drive to Exeter, a journey that takes about two hours from Sydney.

How to Get Around in Exeter

The best way to get around Exeter is by car or bike as public transport services are limited. The village is small enough to explore on foot.

Where to Go Next from Exeter: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bowral: Known for its beautiful gardens and heritage sites, Bowral is just a 25-minute drive from Exeter.
  • Mittagong: A historic town with antiques shops and beautiful parks, Mittagong is a 20-minute drive from Exeter.

Conclusion

Exeter is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to unwind and experience the beauty of the Southern Highlands. From its natural attractions to its rich history and culture, Exeter has something for everyone, and it’s well worth a visit.