City Gate Exeter Room photoCity Gate Exeter Exterior photoCity Gate Exeter Exterior photo
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From108US$ /night
Check-in
07May2026Select date
Check-out
08May2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Iron Bridge, North Street, Exeter, United Kingdom, EX4 3RB
-
Close to the city center
Great
8.7
8.8
/10
4.1
4.4
/5

Boutique Bedrooms Above Pub

City Gate offers 20 individually designed bedrooms featuring Hypnos beds, ensuite showers with rainfall fixtures, Nespresso machines, and flat-screen TVs with Sky. Room types include Cosy, Boutique, Boutique Twin, and Bigger Boutique options, some accommodating fold-out beds for children or dog beds. All rooms include ironing facilities, heating, mini-bars, and free Wi-Fi.

British Seasonal Dining

The pub serves breakfast from 7am on weekdays and 8am on weekends, offering full English breakfast, eggs Benedict, dippy eggs, and avocado toast. The all-day menu includes cider-battered haddock, West Country rump steak, and plant-based burgers. A summer set menu offers 2 courses for £18 or 3 courses for £22. The bar serves real ales, craft beers, and spritz cocktails like Rhubarb Rosé and Hugo Spritz.

Garden & Event Spaces

The property features a walled courtyard garden with a heated stretch tent and outdoor seating. Private spaces include the Cellar Bar with brick walls and wooden beams, and The Gallery dining room with access to the secret garden. These spaces host comedy nights, live music, and private events. The hotel shows sports events on big screens in the covered outdoor area.

Central Exeter Location

Located at 1 Iron Bridge, the hotel is a 1-minute walk from Fore Street and Gandy Street's independent shops. It is a 6-minute walk from Exeter Central Station and 13 minutes from Exeter St David's Station. Nearby landmarks include Exeter Cathedral (5-minute walk), Royal Albert Memorial Museum (5-minute walk), and Exeter Quay. The Jurassic Coast is 15 km away. Harlequins Car Park across the road charges £13 daily.

Family & Dog Services

The hotel offers family rooms with Z-beds or cots (£15 per night for children 2-14, free under 2). Borrow Boxes with games are available in rooms. Dog-friendly rooms accommodate up to 2 dogs for £20 per night, providing dog beds, bowls, and treats. The events team assists with weddings and corporate functions. Package deals include Sip, Supper & Snooze with dinner, breakfast, and cocktails.

“City Gate strikes me as a smart choice in Exeter; its location places guests within a short walk of the city center's attractions. I think its dog-friendly accommodations and the pub's local craft beers are particularly appealing. The combination of comfort, character, and convenience makes it a standout.”
Hotel logo
Grace WhitmanContent & Editorial Director at Familyhotels
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Choose from a variety of room types

Choose from a wide variety of rooms designed for families, including double rooms, family suites, and rooms with breakfast included
Boutique Double Room
2 persons
230 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Boutique Twin Room
2 persons
230 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Coffee machine
Double Room
2 persons
220 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Superior Double Room
2 persons
260 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
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Availability and pricing for your selected dates

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Facilities

Each family-friendly hotel provides top-notch amenities for an unforgettable stay with your loved ones
Facilities: Great
8.8/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Safe deposit box
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Pets allowed
  • 24-hour security
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access
  • Key access

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Pet amenities available
  • Room service
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Board games
  • Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

  • Live entertainment
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Mini-bar
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

At City Gate, guests are welcomed into a vibrant culinary hub that celebrates traditional British cuisine while emphasizing fresh, local ingredients. From cozy pub classics to innovative vegetarian offerings, each meal is designed to indulge the senses and provide a comforting retreat after a day of exploration.
City Gate Exeter Restaurant photo
City Gate Exeter Restaurant photo
City Gate Exeter Restaurant photo

City Gate

Traditional British
Ambiance
Set in a charming location in the heart of Exeter, the City Gate features a traditional pub atmosphere with a large dining room perfect for family gatherings and a beautiful private terrace for sunny breaks.
Key Offerings
Highlights include seasonal dishes such as pan-roasted Elston Farm lamb rump and Brixham hake, as well as vegetarian options that cater to all palates. Guests can enjoy a refreshing drink from the in-house bar while savoring delightful meals.
Reservation
Recommended for larger groups.
Open for lunch and dinner; hours may vary.

City Gate Location

Iron Bridge, North Street, Exeter, United Kingdom, EX4 3RB
Map view
Iron Bridge, North Street, Exeter, United Kingdom, EX4 3RB
Nearby
Church
Exeter Cathedral
1600 ft
Museum
Royal Albert Memorial Museum
1000 ft
Castle
Rougemont Castle
2000 ft
Off Fore Street Mint Lane
St Nicholas Priory
1300 ft
Queen Street
1300 ft
17 Catherine St
St Catherine's Chapel and Almshouses
1400 ft
Church
St Pancras Church
700 ft
Cathedral Yard Exeter Cathedral
Statue of Richard Hooker
1100 ft
Queen Street
Miles' Clocktower
1200 ft
Event hall
Exeter Guildhall
1100 ft
Church
St Stephen's Church
1300 ft
Exeter High Street
Exeter Riddle Sculpture
1400 ft
Frog Street In a park off Frog Street
The Medieval Exe Bridge
1800 ft
Exeter - Catacombs and Lower Cemetery
1600 ft
Bridge
The Iron Bridge
300 ft
Art object
Redvers Buller
1600 ft
Phoenix Blitz Memorial
Blitz Fountain and the Phoenix Blitz Memorial
1600 ft
Princesshay
Blue Boy Statue
1700 ft
251 High Street
Year of the Pedestrian Statue
1900 ft
Church
St Martin's Church
1300 ft
Event hall
Tucker's Hall. The Guild of Weavers
1200 ft
Shopping Area
Princesshay
1800 ft
Edmund Street
The House That Moved
1600 ft
Near Killerton House
Budlake Old Post Office
1600 ft
National Trust's Killerton Estate
Clyston Mill
1600 ft
Restaurants
Conservatory Restaurant
500 ft
18 North Street
Steaks N Sushi
400 ft
23-24 North Street
Herbies
500 ft
15 North Street
Red Rose
500 ft
13-14 North Street
The Lin Den
500 ft
13 North Street
Gulliver's Fine Coffee & Cakes
600 ft
13 North Street
Turtle Bay
1100 ft
Queen Street Guildhall
Cote Brasserie
1300 ft
19-21 Cathedral Yard
Explore Exeter
Explore Exeter
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Exeter Cathedral
Exeter Cathedral
6 minutes' walk
Gothic architecture and stunning stained glass. Guided tours reveal its historical significance.
Royal Albert Memorial Museum
Royal Albert Memorial Museum
4 minutes' walk
Free entry museum featuring art, history, and natural history exhibits. Great for families.
Underground Passages
Underground Passages
10 minutes' walk
Medieval underground tunnels. Guided tours available, providing unique historical insights.
Rougemont Castle
Rougemont Castle
8 minutes' walk
Historic castle with scenic views. Explore the grounds and enjoy a picnic with the family.
Exeter Quay
Exeter Quay
20 minutes' walk
Scenic riverside area for walking, cycling, and watersports. Cafés and rental services available.
Riverside Church
Riverside Church
12 minutes' walk
A tranquil space offering yoga classes and meditation sessions suitable for all levels.
Belmont Park
20 minutes' drive
Beautiful park with walking trails and green spaces. Ideal for a family outing or a quiet stroll.
Conservatory Restaurant
Conservatory Restaurant
2 minutes' walk
Elegant setting with a diverse menu. Known for local dishes made from fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Steaks N Sushi
Steaks N Sushi
2 minutes' walk
Unique blend of steak and sushi offerings. Casual dining atmosphere, perfect for a quick bite.
Herbies
Herbies
2 minutes' walk
Vegetarian restaurant featuring hearty dishes. Cozy vibe with an extensive menu for healthy eaters.
Exeter Phoenix
15 minutes' walk
Arts venue hosting live music, theaters, and exhibitions. Family-friendly events are regularly scheduled.
The Cavern Club
15 minutes' walk
Popular music venue with live performances. Known for its vibrant nightlife and welcoming atmosphere.
Tips on navigating the city
City Centre
Exeter4 min  ·  1000 ft
Airports
Exeter International (EXT)16 min  ·  6.4 mi
Bristol (BRS)163 min  ·  67.3 mi
Train
Exeter St Thomas Railway Station10 min  ·  2700 ft
Exeter St Davids Train Station11 min  ·  3000 ft
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Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:00
Check-out
from 07:00-11:00
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
A full breakfast is served at the price of GBP15 per person per day. 
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
22

Family-focused reviews and ratings

Read feedback from other families who have stayed to ensure you make the right choice.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
City Gate is widely appreciated for its blend of hotel and pub atmosphere, situated conveniently close to Exeter's attractions like the Cathedral and city center. Guests often highlight the individually decorated, spacious rooms, some noting air conditioning and the welcome addition of fresh milk and a selection of teas and coffee. Breakfast in the conservatory is a particular favorite, although some guests have found the soundproofing between rooms less than ideal. Its proximity to Exeter St David train station makes it convenient for rail travelers.
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Review score
Based on 552 verified reviews
8.7/10
Great
91%
Recommend
Staff
9.4/10
Location
9.2/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.1/10
Pros
Welcoming staff
Comfortable room
Good breakfast
City center location
Cons
Loud noise
Air con issues
Noisy traffic
Lack of sleep
Guest reviews
based on 552 reviews
8.7/10
based on 421 reviews
4/5
based on 833 reviews
8.7/10
Henry from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 17, 2026
6/10
cheerful smileoverpriced restaurantabsent staff
The staff greeted me with a cheerful smile, and they were very helpful. The room was clean, colorful, and very bright.
The restaurant was very overpriced. I found this unacceptable. My fire alarm in the room went off twice in the middle of the night. There was nobody around, so I could not ask anyone what was happening. I will not be staying here next time I visit.
0 Helpful
Scarlett from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 28, 2025
7/10
convenient locationfriendly stafflovely toiletriesdust problemmold problemdirty stairs
The location was convenient for exploring. The staff were very friendly! The room came with nice toiletries, and shortbread. I found those personal touches lovely.
The cleanliness of the restaurant was not up to par. I saw dust and dirt in the toilets. there was mold in the toilets. The stairs to the room were dirty. It worried me at first. The room itself was clean though
0 Helpful
Sebastian from Germany
Single
Double Room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed:December 22, 2025
9.0/10

satisfying stay

garden terracefriendly staffmould bathroom
The sunday lunch in the pub was fantastic. It features a very nice garden terrace. my room was spacious. A fridge allowed me to store my own items. staff members were very helpful and friendly, assisting with various requests. i found the overall experience to be quite pleasant.
during my stay, i found that the room i was in felt noticeably tired. it looked to need both updating and a comprehensive deep clean. i saw mould in the bathroom on the ceiling, and floor tiles.
Facilities
9/10
the pub has a huge garden plus several areas designated for private functions! these areas were in constant use . there is a wonderful log fire that is kept roaring for warmth.
Rooms
8/10
The room included a well-stocked mini bar and a fridge with ample hanging space. lovely toiletries and plentiful tea and coffee were restocked. the bed was very comfortable. The hotel was quiet at night.
Service
10/10
The staff was helpful. sam, a friendly and cheery presence, served me in the restaurant! sam looked after me very well throughout my visit and kept the log fire roaring.
0 Helpful
|
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Charlotte from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 13, 2025
9/10
fresh milkcomfy bedlovely toiletries
The room had lovely toiletries. fresh milk was in the fridge, this was a nice touch. the bed was very comfy. I slept very well.
The staircase was narrow.
0 Helpful
Jason from United Kingdom
Couple
Superior Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:November 23, 2025
9/10

nice stay indeed

friendly staffcomfortable bedstocked minibargarden view
i appreciate the staff's friendly demeanor. they are helpful when i checking in. the room had a comfortable bed and nice bathroom. i found a well stocked minibar with drinks and snacks. the garden view from the room was beautiful.
this made access difficult with luggage.
Facilities
9/10
the hotel features a pub. it offers a nice autumn vibe and a selection of drinks. i note the pub is accessible directly from the hotel.
0 Helpful
|
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Irene from Greece
Couple
double room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed:November 20, 2025
7/10

adequate amenities

plug socketappropriate decorpolite ladysmall bathroomfaulty televisionbath plug
the bedroom included many plug sockets the decor was appropriate i found nice features the young lady who checked us in was polite and thorough
the bathroom was very small i could barely turn around the tv did not function the bath plug would not release easily i needed a glass to empty the bath
0 Helpful
FAQs
About City Gate
What is the distance from City Gate to Exeter Cathedral?
City Gate is located 0.5 km from Exeter Cathedral.
How far is City Gate from Exeter International Airport?
City Gate is approximately 5 km from Exeter International Airport.
What dining options are available at City Gate?
City Gate features an on-site restaurant that serves seasonal locally-sourced dishes.
What are the check-in and check-out times at City Gate?
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Which popular restaurants are located near City Gate?
Nearby restaurants include Treasury Restaurant (0.5 km), Red Rose (0.5 km), and Steaks N Sushi (0.5 km).
Does City Gate offer pet-friendly accommodations?
Up to two dogs can stay at City Gate for an additional charge of £20 per night.
What amenities can guests find in the rooms at City Gate?
Rooms at City Gate feature air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with Sky channels, and a Nespresso coffee machine.
Is Wi-Fi available at City Gate?
Wi-Fi is available for free throughout City Gate.
Is breakfast available at City Gate and what does it include?
Breakfast is available at City Gate for an additional charge of £15 and includes options like full English and continental.
Are there business services offered at City Gate?
City Gate provides facilities suitable for hosting events and business meetings.
Is there a bar at City Gate for guests to enjoy?
City Gate features a bar and lounge area for guests to relax.
What are the main highlights of City Gate?
City Gate offers boutique rooms, a vibrant pub atmosphere, and a charming garden setting.

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