It’s our 50th birthday!

Guildhall Exeter, Exeter’s shopping, leisure and dining destination, turns 50 this year, marking half a century since our official opening in November 1976 — and continuing a much longer story of people coming together in the city centre.

For generations of locals, Guildhall Exeter has been a familiar meeting place: somewhere to shop, eat, meet friends or simply pass through on a busy day. Few places in Exeter sit on such historically rich ground, with evidence of settlement here stretching back to prehistoric times and later evolving into the Higher and Lower Markets that served the city for centuries.

From historic markets to modern destination

Recognising the need for renewal, the city approved redevelopment plans in the 1970s, and Guildhall Exeter officially opened on 11 November 1976, with Princess Alexandra performing the opening ceremony. The centre quickly became part of everyday life in Exeter, reflecting the city’s role as a regional hub for shopping, culture and connection.

Over the past five decades, Guildhall Exeter has continued to adapt, balancing historic surroundings with modern retail and dining. Set around the distinctive presence of the 13th-century Church of St Pancras, the centre remains a place where Exeter’s past and present come together every day.

Today, Guildhall Exeter is proud to be one of the largest shopping centres in Devon and Cornwall, playing a vital role in Exeter’s position as the regional capital of the South West.

A year-long 50th birthday celebration!

To mark this golden milestone, we’re rolling out a year-long celebration packed with live music, retro gaming, a nostalgic exhibition tracing our rich history — and yes, a giant birthday cake to kick things off in style. Events and activities throughout the year will celebrate the people, moments and memories that have made Guildhall Exeter what it is today.

Valentine’s Weekend at BOOM BATTLE BAR Exeter

This Valentine’s, BOOM BATTLE BAR Exeter is bringing the vibes with R&B-fuelled brunches and late-night energy. Kick things off with Valentine’s Special Boozy Bingo R&B Brunch, where Love Songs go head-to-head with Break Up Anthems for a night of big tunes, bold prizes and unbeatable atmosphere. Or round up your crew for The Big BOOM Brunch, serving cocktails, street food and a soundtrack that covers slow jams, belters and shout-along choruses. Loved-up, single or somewhere in between — Exeter, this one’s for you.

Date Nights, Games & More in Exeter

Turn up the competition with Date Night Packages from £15pp, including Crazier Golf or classic BOOM games paired with cocktails — perfect for dates or mates, Monday to Thursday. Go bigger with BOOM Bundles for all-in-one game, food and drink experiences, or keep it casual with Fully Loaded Lunchtimes for just £15pp. Add in our brand-new street food menu, packed with bold flavours made for refuelling between games, and you’ve got everything you need for a Valentine’s plan that actually hits. Not sure what to book? BOOM gift cards let them choose the fun, Exeter-style.

It was a real pleasure taking our Exeter Chiefs sponsored Player of the Year, Will Haydon-Wood, out for lunch and getting to know him. A big thank you to the brilliant team at Ludo Sports & Live Lounge for hosting us — and the Chicken Schnitzel certainly lived up to the hype!

What inspired you to get into rugby?
I can’t say there was one big inspirational moment — it just sort of happened naturally. My dad used to take me to watch games from when I was about four, and he was a coach too, so rugby was just always around. Then I went off to boarding school in Cumbria at 11, where rugby is a pretty big deal, and it all grew from there.

Who is your sporting hero?
 Johnny Wilkinson, without a doubt.

Would you go down the coaching route?
I don’t think coaching is really for me — I much prefer playing — but I’d definitely like to stay involved in rugby in some way.

What position do you play?
I’m mainly a fly-half, but I can slot in at full-back if needed. I’d say I’m an attacking player — I like to get on the front foot and use my footwork.

How would you describe the team spirit in the Chiefs?
Last season was a bit of a rollercoaster, to be honest, but I think that’s made us sharper, more focused, and really determined this season.

Who is the biggest joker in the squad?
Dan John.

Do you have any pre-match superstitions?
I used to have a few little habits, but I’ve dropped them now.

Which teammate keeps morale the highest in training?
Probably Jack Yeandle. He is one of the more experienced guys — he knows how to keep things light and funny but also make sure we’re switched on when we need to be.

What other sports do you enjoy watching?
Football and cricket.

How do the older players support the younger ones in the squad?
To be honest, most of us are around the same age — mid to late 20s — so there aren’t loads of “older” players. That kind of support usually comes more from the coaching staff and, of course, from Rob Baxter.

What do you like to do to unwind when you’re not playing or training?
I’m really into reading — especially historical novels and political thrillers from authors like Robert Harris and John le Carré.

Do you have any plans for after your rugby career?
Yeah, I’ve got an undergraduate business degree and I’m thinking about possibly doing a master’s next. You’ve got to plan ahead because a rugby career doesn’t last forever.

It was a great to spend time with Will and to get a glimpse into his journey both on and off the pitch. We’d like to thank him for his time and wish him and the Exeter Chiefs every success for the rest of the season!

🎉Guildhall Exeter Celebrated for Making a Big Impact in the Community
Exeter, 13 October 2025 – Guildhall Exeter has just won a major national award for its commitment to creating a welcoming, family-friendly space in the heart of the city. The shopping centre was honoured with the Best Multi-Party Collaboration Award at the 2025 IWFM Impact Awards, thanks to its standout community initiatives and strong partnership with Exeter City Council.

🏆 Why It Matters to You
Guildhall Exeter isn’t just a place to shop—it’s a space designed with people in mind. Here are a few of the award-winning features that make visiting more enjoyable for everyone:

👶 Toddler Garden Play Area – A free, soft-play zone where little ones under four can safely explore and have fun.

💧 Free Water Dispenser – Stay hydrated while you shop with easy access to clean, refillable water.

🤱 Breastfeeding & Nursing Space – A calm, private area for parents to care for their babies in comfort.

These thoughtful touches were made possible through close collaboration between Guildhall Exeter’s management team (Cushman & Wakefield) and Exeter City Council—showing how teamwork can transform public spaces into something truly special.

🗣️ What Local Leaders Are Saying
Cllr Phil Bialyk, Leader of Exeter City Council, shared:
“Guildhall is a valued part of the Exeter community. This award reflects the hard work and dedication of our teams to make it a space that connects with people.”

Ginny Fellows, Centre Manager at Guildhall Exeter, added:
“We’re thrilled to be recognised. These initiatives have made a real difference to families and visitors, and we’re proud to help make Guildhall a place where everyone feels welcome.

”Whether you’re popping in for a quick shop or spending the afternoon with your family, Guildhall Exeter is proving that a little care and collaboration can go a long way.