The bustling city of Exeter with its elegant cathedral has excellent opportunities for retail therapy of every kind. It boasts one of the country's newest shopping malls and is also home to a variety of small shops, boutiques, galleries and department stores. Exeter's own quayside area is a lively scene for crafts, cafés and pubs, with bicycles and canoes to hire. There are gastro pubs and fine restaurants including Michael Caines at The Royal Clarence Hotel. The city's cultural scene offers concerts, professional theatre, an arts centre and cinemas.

Closer to home, explore Topsham's delightful little streets, the antique centre and other treasure troves of delight.

For the very best in Westcountry food and lifestyle, the celebrated and multi award winning Darts Farm shop is just a couple of miles up the estuary. The emphasis is on fresh and local food alongside an Aga shop, Fired Earth store, Orange Tree Interiors, Cotswold Clothing company and The Treatment Loft beauty boutique.