This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Exeter chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.
I love trying out new independent coffee shops, and Exeter is the perfect place to do just that. The city has a thriving indie coffee shop scene, and I’ve made it my mission to scout out the best spots.
This article is part two of my Exeter Indie Coffee Shop Guide, and if you love coffee as much as I do, or simply need a new café recommendation, make sure to check out my previous article.
Here are some more of my favourites, in no particular order.
Sunday’s Café – Coffee and Surf
Open 9am-4pm Monday to Sunday.
Sunday’s café is a converted boat store, located right on the quay, combining great coffee with surf culture. Alongside great coffee, they sell unique surf-style clothing such as T-shirts, jumpers and tote bags.
The modern wooden décor creates a relaxed and laid bac vibe, but when the weather is nice, sitting outside is the just the best. With stunning views of the quay, it is a prime spot for people watching.
They serve classic barista coffees here, a breakfast menu and a selection of New York-style bagels. Special mention has to go to the banana bread with espresso butter, which is just delicious and is something I am determined to recreate at home.
I have been visiting Sundays since the very start of first year, and it has remained within my coffee shop rotation. Over my time at university, I have made some great memories here.
If you love sipping a great coffee with an amazing view, this is the spot for you.
Arrietty – Coffee Shop
Open 8:30am – 3pm (Tu-Fri), 10am-3pm (Sat).
Located on Longbrook Street, Arrietty is just a stone’s throw from the town centre, making it the perfect place to grab a coffee before heading into town.
They offer a selection of delicious coffee and home bakes, as well as homeware and seasonal bouquets, perfect for a treat-yourself moment. On my visit, I had a pistachio-filled croissant paired with a smooth oat latte, which made for the perfect coffee-and-sweet-treat combination (I love anything pistachio-flavoured!).
Their focus on “the little things” really stands out to me. It’s a lovely reminder that enjoying small moments, like sharing a coffee with friends or taking time for yourself, can make a big difference to your day.
Crew Coffee – independent coffee trailer
Open 7:30am – 2pm (Mon-Wed), 7:30 – 3pm (Thurs-Fri).
Located next to the Deven and Exeter Squash club, Crew coffee is the ideal spot to grab a coffee before heading onto campus.
They serve delicious, flavour-packed coffee using beans from The Curator, alongside a range of baked goods and loaded bagels.
I used to stop by regularly in first year for my morning caffeine fix and a pastry, and it’s a tradition I have carried into my third year.
It remains a firm favourite of mine.
Number One Polsloe
Open 10am – 3pm Wednesday to Saturday.
Slightly out of town but conveniently close to many student roads, Number one Polsloe sits perfectly between both campuses.
It’s the perfect spot to grab a takeaway coffee on the way to campus, catch up with friends or get some studying done. They use Crankhouse beans for their coffee and off all the classics, a matcha tasting menu and exciting drinks.
Although I work here part-time during term time, it’s still one of my go-to spots for coffee dates with friends. They serve a full brunch menu, including delicious pancakes and toasties. With gorgeous interior, the café has ultimate cosy vibes and is definitely a spot to check out when your next out and about.