Welcome Trespass: Trusted Outdoor Retailer Opens This Friday

Trespass opens brand-new store in the centre!

We’re delighted to announce that Trespass will officially open its doors on Friday, 26th June! As one of the UK’s best-known outdoor clothing, footwear and equipment retailers, Trespass brings decades of experience helping adventurers, families and outdoor enthusiasts make the most of every journey. Whether you’re planning a weekend walk, a camping trip or your next big adventure, you’ll find quality products, trusted expertise and great value in-store. Join us on opening day to celebrate the arrival of this established and much-loved brand—we can’t wait to welcome Trespass to the centre!

Store opening offer: £10 OFF when spend over £50.

Only valid in Trespass Exeter. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other group discount scheme. Offer only valid from Friday 26th June – Monday 6th July 2026.

Father’s Day Offers

Baba Eats, We Treat: Father’s Day at Comptoir

This Father’s Day, Comptoir is raising a glass and a mezze dish to Baba.

On Sunday 21st June, when a table is pre booked and a large plate is ordered, Baba receives a complimentary mezze and beer. For those who prefer a non alcoholic option, a refreshing homemade lemonade is available instead.

With smoky grills, vibrant mezze, warm hospitality and authentic Lebanese dishes made for sharing, it’s the perfect way to celebrate and say thank you to Baba.

More of a Gift Giver?

For those who prefer to celebrate with a gift, Comptoir has Father’s Day covered.

Throughout June, guests can enjoy £10 off every £50 Father’s Day gift card, paying just £40 for a £50 gift card. It’s the perfect excuse for Baba to enjoy a delicious Lebanese feast at a later date.

 

 

Give the Gift of Great Pizza This Father’s Day

Looking for the perfect Father’s Day gift? Franco Manca has it covered.

For one week only, guests can enjoy an extra 25% on any gift card purchased, making it even easier to treat Dad to the food he loves. Whether he’s a fan of slow risen sourdough pizza, carefully sourced seasonal ingredients or simply enjoys sharing great food with family and friends, a Franco Manca gift card is a thoughtful way to celebrate.

From signature sourdough pizzas and delicious small plates to refreshing drinks and indulgent desserts, there’s something for every appetite.

Purchase a gift card next week and receive 25% extra value at no additional cost, giving him even more to enjoy.

Give Dad something delicious to look forward to this Father’s Day.

Celebrate Father’s Day with a Thai Feast fit for Dad

Gather the family at Rosa’s Thai for a proper meal with the Thai Feast Menu 2 courses for £25 or 3 courses for £28 per person. Great value, generous portions, and packed with Rosa’s favourites.

Think Sharing Platters to start, followed by their fragrant Red Curry, spicy Chilli & Basil Stir-Fry, Drunken Noodles, and other Thai classics.

And because it’s his day, Dads dining at Rosa’s on Father’s Day weekend will receive a complimentary glass of Toasted Rice & Pandan Old Fashioned, or non-alcoholic Nam Dang Manao.

Give him what he really wants: good food with the people he loves. Available 20-21 June. T&C’s Apply.

Celebrate at The Botanist

This Father’s Day, The Botanist is inviting families to celebrate with a hearty Sunday roast, live music from its homegrown bands and a special treat for Dad.

When dining on Father’s Day, Dad can enjoy bottomless pints of Madri with his meal, on the house. Guests can tuck into roasted meats served with all the trimmings, including crisp roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, Yorkshire puddings and unlimited house gravy.

With great food, live music and plenty of Father’s Day cheer, The Botanist is the perfect place to gather and celebrate.

Give the gift of adventure!

Forgotten to get Dad a Father’s Day gift? There’s still time! Escape Hunt has you covered with their instant e-vouchers and print & play games.
Give the ultimate gift of adventure this Father’s Day!

The Beefy Boys are coming to town!

Big Burgers, Big News: Beefy Boys Are Coming to Exeter!

We’re absolutely delighted to announce some fantastic news for Exeter city centre: the hugely popular The Beefy Boys are coming to town!

The award-winning burger brand will be opening a brand-new restaurant in the heart of Guildhall Shopping Exeter, taking over the former BrewDog unit. This exciting arrival represents a real boost for the centre’s food and beverage offer, helping to ensure Guildhall Shopping Exeter continues to thrive as a vibrant destination for great food, drink, and social experiences.

Beefy Boys are renowned for their bold, indulgent burgers, high-quality ingredients, and fun, laid-back dining style. They have already built a strong following across the UK, with successful restaurants in Hereford, Shrewsbury, Cheltenham, Bath, Oxford, and Nottingham. Each location has become a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike, and Exeter is set to be no exception.

“Exeter has been on our radar for a while. It’s an exciting city with a buzzing food scene, and I’m lucky enough to have spent lots of time here, due to some family connections, so it’s always felt like somewhere we’d love to be. When the former BrewDog site came up, it just felt like the perfect fit for us”.

The Beefy Boys arrival brings fresh energy and excitement to the city centre, further strengthening our hospitality mix. It’s a perfect fit for the centre’s ongoing commitment to delivering standout food and beverage experiences in the heart of Exeter.

Further details on the opening date, and the way in which local diners can be among the first to try out the new restaurant will be announced soon.

Comptoir Libanais

Summer Specials

It’s Sunshine, Mezze & Terrace Season

Sunshine, mezze spreads, cocktails that turn into “just one more”, and long lunches that somehow become dinner plans… summer has officially landed at Comptoir Libanais.

This season, Comptoir Libanais introduces its summer specials, from the sweet and spicy Honey & Harissa Chicken served with crispy batata harra and pomegranate, to the rich and comforting Fettat Lamb Kibbeh layered with creamy tahina, crunchy pita crisps and fresh tabbouleh.

Two cocktails and a mezze

And because no summer catch-up is complete without cocktails, guests can enjoy any two cocktails and one mezze for £20* from 3–6pm.

Think golden hour on the terrace, tables full of food, and main-character summer energy.

*Any 2 Cocktails & 1 Mezze available Sunday–Friday, 3–6pm. Offer not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Available from 26th May – 31st August 2026.

Custard Town Opening in June!

A vibrant new family play space is set to open this June at Guildhall Shopping Exeter, offering a safe, inclusive and imaginative environment for children aged six and under.

Located on Level One in the heart of Exeter city centre, Custard Town has been designed to encourage creativity, sensory exploration and interactive play, while also creating a welcoming space for families to connect and spend time together.

The new attraction will feature a series of themed play areas tailored to different ages and stages of development. Young visitors can enjoy a teddy bears’ picnic in the park, explore a mess-free art studio, or dance in Custard Town’s very own disco space. Sensory play experiences using touch, sound and light are woven throughout, combining guided activities with imaginative free play.

Custard Town will be open seven days a week, with morning and afternoon sessions available for children aged 0–6, alongside dedicated SEN sessions. An on-site café will serve hot drinks and cakes, and visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks.

Accessibility, affordability and safety are central to the project, with entry prices and café treats kept as affordable as possible. A monthly pass will also be available, with free entry for babies under nine months old.

Custard Town builds on the legacy of Little Exeter, which operated from 2023 until its closure in March 2026. The venue played a vital role in the city, providing an affordable, welcoming space where children could play and adults could connect.

Following the announcement of its closure, Exeter Community Initiatives (ECI) sought a way to sustain a service so valued by families and children’s services across the city. As a charity with a strong track record of delivering family-focused projects, including Family Resource, the Jelly Children’s Charity Shop and Exeter Children’s Centres, ECI recognises the essential role that community play spaces have in supporting early development, wellbeing and social connection.

The charity has thanked both Exeter City Council and Guildhall Shopping Exeter for their support in bringing Custard Town to the city centre.

This striking new mural, celebrating Devon’s wildlife will greet visitors to Custard Town! Created by Exeter artist Chloe Farrant.

Big Flavour News from Franco Manca

The Summer of Twenty Twenty Spritz is at Franco Manca.

This May, Franco Manca is offering two spritz for £13.50, featuring a choice of Aperol Spritz, Hugo Spritz, or Sarti Spritz. The selection caters to both classic Italian aperitivo fans and those looking to try something new. Perfect for after-work drinks, weekend catch-ups, or relaxed summer evenings, and can be paired with sharing platters or signature sourdough pizzas for a complete dining experience.

So  if you’re searching for affordable cocktails, spritz deals, or the best places for summer drinks, Franco Manca has you covered!

Exciting new menu!

Franco Manca’s new menu is full of exciting additions that celebrate authentic Italian flavours and fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Enjoy creative new bites, including bruschetta options with a twist, generous sharing platters and a classic caprese salad that highlights simple, high-quality produce. The pizza selection brings something for everyone, from a half calzone to a bold spiced lamb pizza, all served on our signature sourdough base.

Looking for something lighter? Our new range of fresh salads is perfect for spring, while the new cannoli (see below!) offers a traditional Italian sweet treat to finish.

Cannoli’s have arrived at Franco Manca!

Your newest obsession is here… Franco Manca have created their own Sicilian Cannoli, a popular Italian sweet treat. Crisp, golden pastry shells filled with a smooth, creamy ricotta and chocolate chip filling, topped with chopped pistachios for the perfect crunch. This classic Italian dessert brings a little taste of Sicily to Franco Manca’s new Spring menu and is perfect enjoyed with a coffee.

20% discount for students and Blue Light workers.

Available Sunday – Thursday, enjoy 20% off your bill by showing your student ID or Blue Light Card. This offer is also available to anyone working in the education and health care sector – please have proof of employment.

Digging Exeter Family Fun!

A Dig Through Time: Part of Our 50th Year Celebrations at Guildhall Shopping Exeter

What an incredible day it was as we continued our 50th anniversary celebrations here at Guildhall Shopping Exeter with a truly unique, hands on archaeological experience in Market Square, delivered in collaboration with RAMM, whose expertise brought the event to life.

Families joined us from across the city on Saturday 18th April, and it’s safe to say the event was a huge success. Led by the fantastic team at RAMM, our giant excavation pits were a big hit, with children eagerly rolling up their sleeves, grabbing trowels, and uncovering a fascinating mix of buried artefacts. From pot sherds and statues to dinner plates, turkey bones and even leather boots, every discovery sparked curiosity and excitement.

It was especially rewarding to see just how engaged and intrigued the children were, not only by what they found, but by the stories behind each object and why these pieces of history had been discovered right here in Exeter. Thanks to RAMM’s knowledgeable archaeologists, the experience brought the city’s rich past to life in a way that was both educational and genuinely fun.

Alongside the dig pits, visitors explored handling tables, puzzles, and interactive displays, all thoughtfully curated with support from RAMM’s collection. Their team was on hand throughout the day to share insights, answer questions, and inspire young budding historians, highlighting what a brilliant city wide collaboration this event truly was.

As part of the celebrations, we were also delighted to give away over 100 goodie bags to children attending the event, each filled with special gifts branded for our 50th birthday, a small thank you for helping us mark this milestone year.

From Roman roots and medieval trade to more modern stories, the event perfectly captured the spirit of discovery that lies beneath Exeter’s streets. Working in partnership with RAMM made this celebration even more special, showcasing the power of collaboration in bringing Exeter’s heritage to life for our community.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, and to RAMM for helping us deliver such a memorable day. We loved seeing so many curious minds digging into Exeter’s story… quite literally!

At the heart of the community for 50 years!

1976 -2026

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.

From Fly-Half to Future Plans: A Conversation with Will Haydon-Wood

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 Wins Prestigious Award

🎉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.

The Cushman & Wakefield team — managing agents for the Guildhall Exeter on behalf of Exeter City Council.

We’re proud to support Young Lives vs. Cancer as our chosen Charity of the Year

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