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Check out our updated calendar!

Wolf Hall Weekend at Cadhay House, East Devon - 22nd - 23rd June
Jun
22

Wolf Hall Weekend at Cadhay House, East Devon - 22nd - 23rd June

Wolf Hall Weekend: The historical literary event of 2024.

A prestigious event to celebrate and pay tribute to the late multi-award-winning author Dame Hilary Mantel and her Wolf Hall Trilogy - two times winner of the Man Booker Prize and New York Times bestseller.


Entry by a limited number of pre-booked tickets only.
This unique weekend conference, is to be held in the grounds of the beautifully preserved and enchanting Tudor mansion of Cadhay House, near Exeter, East Devon, England. Over two immersive days, this event will feature a star-studded line up of speakers drawn from the stage productions of the trilogy, Tudor history experts, the world of publishing, renown literary critics, writers; and friends of Hilary Mantel.


The attendees will be treated to in-depth and personal reflection on the life and work of Hilary Mantel, and in particular her Wolf Hall Trilogy and its unique impact on the genre of historical fiction. Historians will reveal their impressions of Mantel’s interpretation of the life and times of Thomas Cromwell and his powerful influence on the reign of Henry VIII and his wives, while respected book critics will discuss the late author's gifted and unique approach to her subject.


Cadhay House was one of Hilary's favourite local places to visit when she wrote her Trilogy while living in East Devon,
Additional options for the weekend include limited accommodation at the venue and an evening Tudor Costume Banquet.


Accessibility statement: The event will be held in a ground-level, wheel-chair accessible location on the grounds of Cadhay House, with disabled parking close by the entrance, and accessible toilet facilities upon request within the property. For further information please contact the organiser at info@wolfhallweekend.com

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Tales at the Cuckoo Taproom with The Old Wyvern
Dec
21

Tales at the Cuckoo Taproom with The Old Wyvern

Come one, Come all!

To sup deep of Dionysus blessing!

Good Company! Fine drinks! And of course: Tales and myths, legends and folklore both local and far-flung, both mystical and urbane.

Two hours of one man show, that swings from serious to hilarious, romantic to damned.

There is a suggested payment of £2 for attendance, but any penny in a tankard is gratefully received


Accessibility Statement: The venue itself is accessible, however, the toilets are up two flights of stairs.

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Bookbinding Workshop: Japanese Books and the Chinese Accordion
Nov
18

Bookbinding Workshop: Japanese Books and the Chinese Accordion

Learn to make these lovely oriental book forms.

Including side-sewn, non-adhesive bindings using beautiful, traditional Japanese stitching patterns, and a hardback concertina book made with a clever technique of interlocking folded pages.

Perfect for a photo album, sketchbook or artist's book. Places are limited to 10, and all the materials and tools will be supplied.


Cost: £50


Accessibility Statement: The venue is an historic chapel with steep and narrow stairs throughout. There is no BSL available.

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Tales at the Cuckoo Taproom with The Old Wyvern
Nov
16

Tales at the Cuckoo Taproom with The Old Wyvern

Come one, Come all!

To sup deep of Dionysus blessing!

Good Company! Fine drinks! And of course: Tales and myths, legends and folklore both local and far-flung, both mystical and urbane.

Two hours of one man show, that swings from serious to hilarious, romantic to damned.

There is a suggested payment of £2 for attendance, but any penny in a tankard is gratefully received


Accessibility Statement: The venue itself is accessible, however, the toilets are up two flights of stairs.

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Bookbinding Workshop: Flag Books and Fold-out Books
Oct
21

Bookbinding Workshop: Flag Books and Fold-out Books

Make two contemporary book structures with beautiful sculptural forms, perfect to use as sketchbooks, for displaying art work or photographs, or as the basis for artists’ books.

Learn bookbinding techniques using specialist tools and materials, and take away your own handmade books plus the skills to make more at home. Places are limited to 10, and all the materials and tools will be supplied.


Cost: £85


Accessibility Statement: The workshop is on the first floor of the building and there is a lift. There is no BSL available.

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Writers & Artists & Literature Works: How to Get Published Day Conference 2023
Oct
21

Writers & Artists & Literature Works: How to Get Published Day Conference 2023

Are you a writer looking to develop your craft?

Do you want to understand more about the publishing process from the people who know it best, such as editors and literary agents?

Literature Works is delighted to be partnering with Writers & Artists to offer this full day conference packed with practical presentations and panel discussions from authors and publishing industry professionals. Our programme has been purpose-built to provide a range of guidance on the writing craft as well as insight into the world of publishing, while our networking lunch gives you a unique opportunity to connect with writing peers and build your own community.

In our first two sessions we will hear from established writers as they share essential advice on developing your craft as a writer and working towards publication. In the afternoon we will hear from a selection of agents who will demystify the submission process, and also a selection of publishers and editors who will talk you through a range of possible routes to publication as well as answering your questions.

Agenda:

10.00-10.30: Registration

10.30-11.40: Session 1 - Fiction with Amanda Prowse

11.40-11.50: Short comfort break 

11.50-13.00: Session 2 - Fiction & Non-Fiction with Nathan Filer

13.00-14.00: Networking lunch

14.00-15.00: Agent Panel

15.00-15.30: Break 

15.30-16.30: Publishing Panel 

All attendees will be able to purchase books by our session leaders, as well as writing guide from Writers & Artists, at a discounted rate. 

Further speakers to be announced soon!

Cost: £95


About the speakers:

Nathan Filer: I’m a writer, university lecturer and broadcaster with a special interest in mental health, having previously worked as a mental health nurse. I will now list my professional achievements (because there isn’t enough room for my personal failings).

My debut novel, The Shock of the Fall (2013), tells the story of a young man trying to navigate psychiatric services following the death of his brother. It was a Sunday Times bestseller and translated into thirty languages. It won the Costa Book of the Year, the Betty Trask Prize, the National Book Award for Popular Fiction and the Writers’ Guild Award for Best First Novel.  

I’ve written essays and articles for the Guardian, New York Times, HuffPost and Asylum Magazine. My BBC Radio documentary The Mind in the Media (2017), which explored portrayals of mental illness in fiction and journalism, was shortlisted for a Mind Media Award. My poetry has been broadcast on radio and TV, and I’m a previous winner of the BBC Best New Filmmaker Award.

My book of non-fiction, The Heartland: Finding and Losing Schizophrenia, also published as This Book Will Change Your Mind About Mental Health (2019), was a Sunday Times Book of the Year and was longlisted for the Rathbones Folio Prize, awarded for the finest work of literature, regardless of form, to be published in the English language. The charity Rethink Mental Illness named it as one of their best books of the decade.

Why Do I Feel? (2021) is my podcast series exploring human emotions through stories and expert testimony. It was a Financial Times Top 10 Podcast of 2021 and won a Silver Medal at the 2022 Radio Academy ARIAS awards in the ‘Best Independent Podcast’ category.

I have talked about books, mental health, or some combination of both on the BBC Radio 2 Book Club, BBC Radio 3’s Free Thinking and BBC Radio 4’s Open Book, Front Row, All in the Mind, Word of Mouth, A Good Read and the Today Programme.

I’m a recipient of The Big Anxiety Prize, awarded in association with the University of New South Wales for ‘a creative thinker advancing the discussion of mental health’. I also hold an Honorary Doctorate in Liberal Arts from Abertay University, conferred in recognition of my role in raising awareness of mental health issues through literature.

Since 2014 I’ve taught Creative Writing at Bath Spa University, where I’m a Reader and Senior Lecturer. 

My hobbies include pacing around feeling nervous about stuff, and having arguments with people in my head. Before I know it, it’s time to pick the kids up from school.

Amanda Prowse is an International Bestselling author whose twenty-seven novels, two non-fiction books and nine short stories, have been published worldwide in dozens of languages. Her chart topping No.1 titles ‘What Have I Done?’, ‘Perfect Daughter’, ‘My Husband’s Wife’, 'The Girl in the Corner' and 'The Things I Know' have sold millions of copies around the world.

In total, as of December 2022, Amanda has had thirty books published including the collection of seven novellas entitled 'Something Quite Beautiful'.  She has written several more manuscripts that have not yet been released across a different range of genres including Historical Fiction, Comedies, Thrillers and more Contemporary Dramas.

Juliet Pickering: I am proud to represent a list of intriguing, conversation-starting writers, across both fiction and non-fiction. Most of my authors write contemporary stories, often led by themes of love, identity, and coming-of-age; for me, vital qualities to a great story include emotional depth, authenticity, a warm, engaging voice and irrepressible energy. I want to be surprised, and to read everyday experiences and relationships told with nuance and colour. Our lives are rich, complicated and varied, and I like my books to reflect that too.

Favourite authors include Kate Atkinson, Claire Keegan, Curtis Sittenfeld, Elizabeth Strout, Shirley Jackson, Zora Neale Hurston, and Nora Ephron. I’m drawn to rich and multi-layered stories of women, families, friendships and relationships, and love small communities with a strong setting and lots going on beneath the surface; I prefer the small and intimate to the epic and world-affecting.

I want to bring under-represented experiences to both editors and readers, and to broaden the books we’re publishing to include everyone. I’m a proud feminist and celebrate books that empower us, or that make us feel recognised and heard.

Alongside literary, book club and commercial fiction, I represent non-fiction writers including memoir, pop culture, social history, cookery and food.

In case it’s helpful to know what I don’t represent, I do not work with the following genres: poetry, Young Adult or children’s, fantasy, supernatural, dystopian, sci-fi, thriller, horror or crime fiction, business, diet or health books. I tend to enjoy historical fiction only if it’s set after 1900!

I worked for Waterstones before joining the agency A P Watt in 2003. I moved to Blake Friedmann in 2013, becoming Vice Head of the Book Department and a Bookseller ‘Rising Star’ in 2017, and a Director in 2020. In 2021, I was delighted to win the Romantic Novelists’ Association Agent of the Year Award. I regularly visit literary festivals, courses and events, and enjoy giving talks and holding workshops for writers. I have been a judge for the Bristol Short Story Prize and Manchester Fiction Prize, and I’m on the board of the Working Class Writers’ Festival

Imogen Morrell: I joined Greene & Heaton in 2018. As well as handling the agency’s contracts, I’m actively building a list of fiction and non-fiction authors.

In non-fiction, I’m looking for proposals about food, nature, the environment, politics, history, identity, and the climate emergency, usually with a strong narrative or personal element, from academics and journalists who are writing their specialist subject for trade publication. I also represent cookery writers.

In fiction, I’m looking for book club, accessible literary fiction, historical fiction, and crime and thriller. Most of all, I’m interested in a strong voice or a vivid main character that catches your attention from the very first page. I love books that spark conversations, are totally immersive, socially or politically engaged, or offer a fresh take on a genre.

Some of my favourite novels are SUCH A FUN AGE by Kiley Reid, FINGERSMITH by Sarah Waters, THE CONFESSIONS OF FRANNIE LANGTON by Sara Collins, HOW TO KILL YOUR FAMILY by Bella Mackie, DETRANSITION, BABY by Torrey Peters, THE OTHER BLACK GIRL by Zakiya Dalila Harris, DOUBLE BOOKED by Lily Lindon, IN AT THE DEEP END by Kate Davies, PORTRAIT OF A THIEF by Grace D. Li, MY SISTER, THE SERIAL KILLER by Oyinkan Braithwaite and THE FLATSHARE by Beth O’Leary.

Olli Tooley: Olli began Blue Poppy Publishing to give an air of respectability to his own first novel. After jumping through several hoops in the process, he realised that other self-publishing authors might appreciate being under the Blue Poppy umbrella. It turns out many did. Over twenty authors have self-published under the Blue Poppy logo with many more being assisted to self-publish independently. The first batch of 100 ISBNs ran out last year and Blue Poppy purchased a further 1,000. This year Blue Poppy published the first of a growing number of traditionally published books i.e. where Olli paid the author, and for all production costs in exchange for exclusive publishing rights over three years.

While there is some stigma attached to assisted self-publishing and to hybrid publishers, Blue Poppy has always worked towards making money from selling books rather than from producing them. There isn't much money at this end of the publishing business, which makes it all the more important to keep costs down while maintaining quality. It's no easy balancing act but the growing back catalogue as Blue Poppy enters its seventh year shows that Olli is doing something right.


Accessibility Statement: The Library can be accessed via Castle Street which runs parallel to Exeter Library High Street. The Library connects directly to the Rougemont Gardens.

The Library is in close proximity to Exeter Central Station (roughly 5 minutes’ walk), Exeter Bus Station (roughly 10 minutes’ walk), and many connection bus stops on the high street.

There are five Blue Badge spaces outside the main entrance and four / five at the bottom of the slope (on Musgrave Row). These are all public Blue Badge parking spaces however and not dedicated to the library.

The are numerous car parks situated within walking distance of the building, including Guildhall Centre Parking (EX4 3HJ), John Lewis Car Park (EX4 6AH) and Princesshay Parking (EX1 1EU).

The entrance to the building is wheelchair accessible. There is a circular ramp, as well as a small set of stairs. As you enter, you walk into our foyer and café area and can continue through the building to the main library floor, children’s library, and accessible toilet. The second floor houses our quiet area. The third has our Rougemont Lounge and Balcony, and Rougemont Meeting Room. The fourth floor has the public toilets.

All floor are accessible using a set of customer stairs or a public lift. The public toilets on the top floor have four cubicles, one of which is accessible (and baby changing). The Rougemont Balcony is accessible via a small step, however we have portable wheelchair ramps that can be used to allow access.

The toilet in the children’s library is accessible and has baby changing facilities.

The library furniture and bookshelves are laid out in such a way to ensure wheelchair access throughout.

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Tales at the Cuckoo Taproom with The Old Wyvern
Oct
19

Tales at the Cuckoo Taproom with The Old Wyvern

Come one, Come all!

To sup deep of Dionysus blessing!

Good Company! Fine drinks! And of course: Tales and myths, legends and folklore both local and far-flung, both mystical and urbane.

Two hours of one man show, that swings from serious to hilarious, romantic to damned.

There is a suggested payment of £2 for attendance, but any penny in a tankard is gratefully received


Accessibility Statement: The venue itself is accessible, however, the toilets are up two flights of stairs.

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Bookbinding Workshop: Longstitch Variations
Oct
6

Bookbinding Workshop: Longstitch Variations

Join bookbinder Megan Stallworthy at this beautiful and historic library overlooking the Cathedral in the centre of Exeter, and learn to make these books with exposed stitching on the spines, using tactile handmade papers and linen threads.

These lovely non-adhesive bindings are inspired by medieval binding styles, and make wonderful sketchbooks and notebooks. You will take away your handmade books along with a set of workshop notes and the skills to make more at home.
Places are limited to 9, and all the materials and tools will be supplied.



Cost: £65


Accessibility Statement: The Institution is committed to improving its accessibility, and we welcome all visitors to our public events. However, we are transparent about the access limitations that the size, location, and historic nature of the building can occasion, and readily acknowledge that we are in a period of transition.

The main entrance to the DEI, (facing the Cathedral), has double doors, and is accessible for most wheelchairs. From this entrance there is level access to the foyer, and to the inner and outer libraries. We apologise for the current lack of lift access to the South Range rooms on the second floor.

As we are a small building, parking is limited, but a space can be pre-booked by contacting the office by phone: 01392 274727, or by email: office@devonandexeterinstitution.org. Priority will be given to blue badge holders. The side door into the inner library should be accessible for most wheelchair users reaching the DEI from the driveway, or the front entrance can be reached through the side door at the end of the driveway. Please do contact us if you have any further questions about your route into the DEI.

There are toilets on site, though the nearest fully accessible Changing Places toilet can be found in the Princesshay Shopping Centre, at the back of Nationwide.

The library is usually a quiet space, though can be louder during events. A timetable for events can be found on the website. If you require a quieter space, please ask a member of staff.

If sounded, the fire alarm makes a repeated sound of two tones, and flashing lights will go off in the reading room and the toilets. On an ordinary day, ringing phones and door buzzers might also be heard.

Lighting is soft throughout the building, and may be low in certain areas. Assistance dogs are welcome, and staff will be happy to provide water for your dog.

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Theatre in the Library: The Washing Machine of Destiny 28th - 30th September
Sep
28

Theatre in the Library: The Washing Machine of Destiny 28th - 30th September

We are delighted to invite Living Room Theatre to Exeter Library to perform their celebration and exploration of what it is like to have autism. This show is perfect for those who have experience with autism, those who want to learn more about it, or those that want to witness high quality and hilarious theatre.

Luca Saunders is still a teenager; Philip Robinson is getting on a bit. Both are on the autistic spectrum. The Washing Machine Of Destiny theatre show is a conglomeration of their bonkers ideas, perhaps like nothing you will have seen before. An eclectic mixture of music and characters and story and conversation and yet more music in a show that they have created together.

Luca had the idea he wanted to make a play that could communicate some of the weird and wonderful and occasionally worrying things that zip through his neurodivergent brain at a hundred miles an hour, and Philip was well up for that, adding in his own zippy things too. Pippa Marriott came in to slow things down a little and do some directing. All three live in Devon.

It's true to say young Luca is now an emerging actor and is certainly an experienced ‘autie’. Old Philip is a very experienced actor and, it would also be true to say, is now an emerging ‘autie’. Their ten-year friendship is a match made in heaven, or at least in the hot temperature tumbling crazy spin cycle of their shared experiences.

This show lasts 80 minutes, no interval. Come for a spin.

About Living Room Theatre: Living Room Theatre often tour shows into non-theatre settings: living rooms and kitchens, department stores and shops, gardens and caves. We like performing shows that are funny and powerful, that have something important to say: Every Brilliant Thing centred on suicide and enlisted the audience to help tell the story; All Is Mended told real-life stories from Devon’s Care Homes within a repurposed Midsummer Night’s Dream; the Ukrainian play Bad Roads shocked and moved us all. As well as performing all over Devon, the Southwest and nationwide, we have worked from Ireland to Iraq, from Lisbon to Las Vegas, and now in Exeter Library.

Cost: Pay What You Choose - £6 / £8 / £10


Accessibility Statement: The Library can be accessed via Castle Street which runs parallel to Exeter Library High Street. The Library connects directly to the Rougemont Gardens.

The Library is in close proximity to Exeter Central Station (roughly 5 minutes’ walk), Exeter Bus Station (roughly 10 minutes’ walk), and many connection bus stops on the high street.

There are five Blue Badge spaces outside the main entrance and four / five at the bottom of the slope (on Musgrave Row). These are all public Blue Badge parking spaces however and not dedicated to the library.

The are numerous car parks situated within walking distance of the building, including Guildhall Centre Parking (EX4 3HJ), John Lewis Car Park (EX4 6AH) and Princesshay Parking (EX1 1EU).

The entrance to the building is wheelchair accessible. There is a circular ramp, as well as a small set of stairs. As you enter, you walk into our foyer and café area and can continue through the building to the main library floor, children’s library, and accessible toilet. The second floor houses our quiet area. The third has our Rougemont Lounge and Balcony, and Rougemont Meeting Room. The fourth floor has the public toilets.

All floor are accessible using a set of customer stairs or a public lift. The public toilets on the top floor have four cubicles, one of which is accessible (and baby changing). The Rougemont Balcony is accessible via a small step, however we have portable wheelchair ramps that can be used to allow access.

The toilet in the children’s library is accessible and has baby changing facilities.

The library furniture and bookshelves are laid out in such a way to ensure wheelchair access throughout.

View Event →
Tales at the Cuckoo Taproom with The Old Wyvern
Sep
21

Tales at the Cuckoo Taproom with The Old Wyvern

Come one, Come all!

To sup deep of Dionysus blessing!

Good Company! Fine drinks! And of course: Tales and myths, legends and folklore both local and far-flung, both mystical and urbane.

Two hours of one man show, that swings from serious to hilarious, romantic to damned.

There is a suggested payment of £2 for attendance, but any penny in a tankard is gratefully received


Accessibility Statement: The venue itself is accessible, however, the toilets are up two flights of stairs.

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North Cornwall Book Festival 21st - 24th September
Sep
21

North Cornwall Book Festival 21st - 24th September

This year marks the tenth birthday of the North Cornwall Book Festival.

Curated by internationally renowned author Patrick Gale, this boutique festival includes author events, concerts, workshops, an art exhibition, a local artisan market and the ever-popular pop-up café.

As part of this year’s stellar line-up, the festival will be welcoming the queen of crime fiction Ann Cleeves, historian Tom Holland, and novelists Natalie Haynes and Max Porter. Evening entertainment will be provided by one of the UK’s most respected singer songwriters Charlie Dore, Devon-based jazz duo Helen Porter & James Budden, and acclaimed live poet Luke Wright.

Attendees will be able to take part in workshops over the weekend. These will include Emma Gunn on foraging, Tomiwa Owolade on writing about people of colour, a poetry workshop from Luke Wright, and sessions on how to break into a career in the arts. There will also be one-to-one Meet the Professionals sessions where attendees will receive invaluable feedback from writers, publishers and other creative industry professionals.

Cost: £10 - £12 per event


Accessibility Statement: There is limited accessible parking for disabled people in the lay-by on the opposite side of the road from the church.

There are accessible toilets in the Hall and Stone Barn.

There is level access to both marquees, St Endellion Hall and the Stone Barn.

There is no wheelchair access to the Church through the main door – there is a ramp at the North door.

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Get the Most from the Devon and Exeter Institution Catalogue 
Sep
19

Get the Most from the Devon and Exeter Institution Catalogue 

Join our Librarian for a one-to-one demonstration of our library catalogue.

Learn search techniques to find the books that you need for your research. Booking essential.

Cost: Free


Accessibility Statement: The Institution is committed to improving its accessibility, and we welcome all visitors to our public events. However, we are transparent about the access limitations that the size, location, and historic nature of the building can occasion, and readily acknowledge that we are in a period of transition.

The main entrance to the DEI, (facing the Cathedral), has double doors, and is accessible for most wheelchairs. From this entrance there is level access to the foyer, and to the inner and outer libraries. We apologise for the current lack of lift access to the South Range rooms on the second floor.

As we are a small building, parking is limited, but a space can be pre-booked by contacting the office by phone: 01392 274727, or by email: office@devonandexeterinstitution.org. Priority will be given to blue badge holders. The side door into the inner library should be accessible for most wheelchair users reaching the DEI from the driveway, or the front entrance can be reached through the side door at the end of the driveway. Please do contact us if you have any further questions about your route into the DEI.

There are toilets on site, though the nearest fully accessible Changing Places toilet can be found in the Princesshay Shopping Centre, at the back of Nationwide.

The library is usually a quiet space, though can be louder during events. A timetable for events can be found on the website. If you require a quieter space, please ask a member of staff.

If sounded, the fire alarm makes a repeated sound of two tones, and flashing lights will go off in the reading room and the toilets. On an ordinary day, ringing phones and door buzzers might also be heard.

Lighting is soft throughout the building, and may be low in certain areas. Assistance dogs are welcome, and staff will be happy to provide water for your dog.

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Librarian's Tour
Sep
14

Librarian's Tour

Join our Librarian for a special evening tour of our historic library and heritage collections.

Includes an opportunity to view some collections highlights. Booking essential.

Cost: Free



Accessibility Statement: The Institution is committed to improving its accessibility, and we welcome all visitors to our public events. However, we are transparent about the access limitations that the size, location, and historic nature of the building can occasion, and readily acknowledge that we are in a period of transition.

The main entrance to the DEI, (facing the Cathedral), has double doors, and is accessible for most wheelchairs. From this entrance there is level access to the foyer, and to the inner and outer libraries. We apologise for the current lack of lift access to the South Range rooms on the second floor.

As we are a small building, parking is limited, but a space can be pre-booked by contacting the office by phone: 01392 274727, or by email: office@devonandexeterinstitution.org. Priority will be given to blue badge holders. The side door into the inner library should be accessible for most wheelchair users reaching the DEI from the driveway, or the front entrance can be reached through the side door at the end of the driveway. Please do contact us if you have any further questions about your route into the DEI.

There are toilets on site, though the nearest fully accessible Changing Places toilet can be found in the Princesshay Shopping Centre, at the back of Nationwide.

The library is usually a quiet space, though can be louder during events. A timetable for events can be found on the website. If you require a quieter space, please ask a member of staff.

If sounded, the fire alarm makes a repeated sound of two tones, and flashing lights will go off in the reading room and the toilets. On an ordinary day, ringing phones and door buzzers might also be heard.

Lighting is soft throughout the building, and may be low in certain areas. Assistance dogs are welcome, and staff will be happy to provide water for your dog.

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Poetry Night: Beginnings and Endings 
Sep
12

Poetry Night: Beginnings and Endings 

Join us for a relaxed evening of poetry reading in the Outer Library, where you will be invited to read your favourite verses aloud or share your own work on the theme of "beginnings and endings."

Drop in - seating is on a first come, first served basis.

Cost: Free


Accessibility Statement: The Institution is committed to improving its accessibility, and we welcome all visitors to our public events. However, we are transparent about the access limitations that the size, location, and historic nature of the building can occasion, and readily acknowledge that we are in a period of transition.

The main entrance to the DEI, (facing the Cathedral), has double doors, and is accessible for most wheelchairs. From this entrance there is level access to the foyer, and to the inner and outer libraries. We apologise for the current lack of lift access to the South Range rooms on the second floor.

As we are a small building, parking is limited, but a space can be pre-booked by contacting the office by phone: 01392 274727, or by email: office@devonandexeterinstitution.org. Priority will be given to blue badge holders. The side door into the inner library should be accessible for most wheelchair users reaching the DEI from the driveway, or the front entrance can be reached through the side door at the end of the driveway. Please do contact us if you have any further questions about your route into the DEI.

There are toilets on site, though the nearest fully accessible Changing Places toilet can be found in the Princesshay Shopping Centre, at the back of Nationwide.

The library is usually a quiet space, though can be louder during events. A timetable for events can be found on the website. If you require a quieter space, please ask a member of staff.

If sounded, the fire alarm makes a repeated sound of two tones, and flashing lights will go off in the reading room and the toilets. On an ordinary day, ringing phones and door buzzers might also be heard.

Lighting is soft throughout the building, and may be low in certain areas. Assistance dogs are welcome, and staff will be happy to provide water for your dog.

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Residential Tutored Writing Retreat with Dr Alice Little 12 - 17 September
Sep
12
to 17 Sep

Residential Tutored Writing Retreat with Dr Alice Little 12 - 17 September

  • Dulverton, England, TA22 9RT United Kingdom (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Develop your voice and get inspired to write at this guided writing retreat in the homely, beautiful surroundings of Nutsford House on the edge of Exmoor.

Workshops and support from tutor Alice Little, combined with acres of inspirational private gardens and woodland as well as the rugged beauty of Exmoor itself, will give you both the ideas and the motivation to write. Workshops will be low pressure, accommodating and nurturing so that you feel able to produce your best work. They’ll also cover a variety of techniques so you develop a range of writing skills. You’ll leave this week with the seeds of many pieces and the foundations of a writing practice to enjoy for a long time.

The week is fully catered with all your meals home cooked on the Aga by hosts Amanda and James, using locally and sustainably sourced, predominantly vegetarian produce. Breakfast includes a choice of cooked options, there are homemade soups, quiches or salads for lunch, and a two course meal in the evening. Coffee, tea and cake are available through the day to help you write. 

We welcome bookings from individuals or writing groups, so please get in touch as we would be very happy to discuss your requirements. 

Tutor: Dr Alice Little

Dates: Tuesday 12th September to Sunday 17th September 2023 

Location: Nutsford House, Exmoor

Course at a glance

TUESDAY

Arrive in the afternoon, settle in, enjoy dinner together and the tutor’s introduction to the week.

WEDNESDAY

Morning workshops led by tutor. Afternoons are your time for writing. Late afternoon trip to bookshops in Dulverton. Dinner in the evening.

THURSDAY

Morning workshops led by tutor. Afternoons are your time for writing. Late afternoon one to one tutorials at Nutsford House. Dinner in pub in Dulverton (at own expense). 

FRIDAY

Morning workshops led by tutor. Afternoons are your time for writing. Late afternoon trip up onto the moor. In the evening a guest speaker joins the group.

SATURDAY

Tutor leads the final workshops in the morning. Afternoons are for your own writing. More one-to-one tutorials in the late afternoon. Everyone gathers in the evening for a final dinner and to share pieces of work. 

SUNDAY

The week comes to a close after breakfast - departures by 11am.

Please note that residential spaces have now been filled, however there are 2 day-only spaces available.

Cost: £695 for a single room with double bed (bathroom shared between two rooms) £595 for a shared twin room (bathroom shared between two rooms)


Alice is an experienced tutor and author of short fiction. She has had five collections of short stories published and has a sixth collection due out in 2023 from Holywell Press. She teaches creative writing for Exeter College and Lady Margaret Hall at the University of Oxford, is a mentor at Oxford Writing Mentors, and runs workshops for Didcot Writers, Blewbury Writers, and Meeting Minds at Oxford University.

Nutsford House is a peaceful haven for writing. It is also Amanda and James’ home which they share on a permanent basis with their dog, two cats and a library of books, and on a temporary basis with Bed and Breakfast guests. Nestled in the Brockey Valley on the edge of Exmoor, this 1920s house has been recently restored to combine its original grandeur with 21st century convenience. It stands in 10 acres of landscaped gardens and private woodland, tucked in amongst trees and babbling streams, with the wilds of Exmoor rising above it.


Accessibility Statement: Nutsford House is on a hill. You can park next to the terrace, which is flat and has tables and chairs to sit out on and enjoy the view. The rest of the garden is sloping although the path into the woods is fairly flat. There are four shallow steps up to the front door, with a handrail. We do not have a ramp yet.

Inside the house, the ground floor is all on one level (no steps) with wide corridors. However, there are no bedrooms or bathrooms on this floor. The downstairs loo would be small for a wheelchair user. The stairs to the first floor are wide and straight with a bannister. There is space in the house and in the garden to be by yourself. There are lots of trees, birds and places to relax. The house is decorated in a calm way, with lots of natural light and it is very quiet. Amanda has worked in autism and disability for over 20 years, so it is important to us that Nutsford House is as inclusive as it can be. Please get in touch if you require any reasonable adjustments and we will do what we can to assist. Assistance dogs are welcome.

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Bookbinding Workshop: Crossed Structure Binding and the Everlasting Fold
Sep
12

Bookbinding Workshop: Crossed Structure Binding and the Everlasting Fold

This workshop is part of the vibrant, biannual 10 Parishes Festival, a celebration of the arts in this corner of West Somerset.

Learn to make these two contemporary book forms using handmade and pattern papers. You will learn how to fold and manipulate paper, stitch and glue using specialist bookbinding tools and materials, and take away your own handmade books plus the skills to make more at home. Places are limited to 10, and all the materials and tools will be supplied.


Cost: £50


Accessibility Statement: The workshop is on the first floor of the building, and there is a lift. There is no BSL available.

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Gatekeepers to Heaven - 3 June – 3 September 2023
Sep
3

Gatekeepers to Heaven - 3 June – 3 September 2023

This landmark exhibition brings back six exceptional medieval manuscripts to Exeter for the first time in over 400 years.

The ancient city of Exeter has one of the most impressive cathedrals in medieval England. Its bishops were at the heart of the religious, cultural and political life of the city and country. For most ordinary people, the guardians of the church and its sacred texts were truly the gatekeepers to heaven. Among Exeter’s most powerful bishops were Leofric (1050-1072) and John Grandisson (1327-1369). Both amassed magnificent collections of manuscripts, making the cathedral library a renowned centre of European learning.

The manuscripts are on loan from the world-famous Bodleian Library in Oxford where they form part of the founding collection of 1602. Originally, the manuscripts were part of Exeter cathedral’s impressive medieval library. Each one sheds light on the medieval world and Exeter’s place in it. They show the power of words, pictures and books, and how the concerns of the Middle Ages reflect those of our own times.

Cost: Free


Accessibility Statement: Entrance to RAMM is via Queen Street or the Garden Entrance.

You can reach the Garden Entrance via two accessible routes via Castle Street, past Exeter Library, or via Little Queen Street and Musgrave Row, which is level.

Wheelchair users and people with mobility scooters, pushchairs and buggies can access the Garden Entrance using the ramp from the blue-badge parking area, or may use our lift at the Queen Street entrance. Small vehicles, including minibuses, can also use the parking area to drop passengers. To book blue-badge parking, please email museum.reception@exeter.gov.uk  or call 01392 265960 during opening hours – 10am to 5pm Tuesday to Sunday (closed Mondays and bank holidays).

The 16 galleries on 2 floors are fully accessible to wheelchair users. There are two lifts in the museum. There is level access on each floor with ample space to manoeuvre between displays. Some doors open automatically. Large print, hearing loops, wheelchairs, free WiFi and online BSL and subtitled videos are all available.

Our Accessibility Guide provides accurate measurements, descriptions and images of RAMM’s accessible features, helping you plan your visit with ease. This can be viewed online or downloaded as a word document. It is useful for visitors with a variety of access requirements.

The RAMM Visual Story (2MB PDF file), with pictures and words, shows how to find the museum and the facilities available. It will be particularly useful for visitors with autism and their carers. 

Assistance dogs are welcome at the museum. Our staff will be happy to provide drinking water for your dog.

There are accessible toilets on both levels of the museum, and baby changing facilities on both floors. The closest accessible Changing Place toilet is located in Princesshay shopping centre on the ground floor of St Stephen’s House at the back of Nationwide in Catherine Square, adjacent to Lloyd’s Lounge.

If a visitor requires an accompanying carer, the carer will be admitted to paying exhibitions and events free of charge.

Full information at https://rammuseum.org.uk/visit/access/

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Goblin Town Fantasy Festival LARP
Sep
1

Goblin Town Fantasy Festival LARP

Goblin Town!
Dates: 01 - 03/09/2023
Where? Taw Bottom
What are we looking at? A LARP tangent event based on finding the mayor of Goblin Town, a town full of Labyrinth (rather than Warhammer or Tolkien) style Goblins!
How does it work? Well, in one of two ways, if you want to take part as a Goblin for the weekend then you join one of the camps and work to gather coins to bribe the council and become mayor.
In addition though you can decide to come as a "mortal meanderer" you play no part but have coins to spend and can involve yourself in all sorts of Goblin activities, heading home safely at the end.
The Camps and Activities
The Entertainers
A raggle taggle bunch, earning coin with their "amazing" shows.
They have at their heart the town band and mortals will be able to join it and make their own instruments from pipes, bottles, cans etc.
Playing throughout the weekend: GirdyBird
And performing on the Saturday and Sunday: Purbeck Storm
Drinks provided by The Cuckoo Tap Room!
Guards and Justices
The serious and po-faced defenders of Goblin Town.
You can get a chance to join the militia training:
Sword/Period Combat Fighting
Archery
Combat Games
Also: You can report Goblins and have them chased around by the Guard!
Goblin Jousting!
The Nefarious Camp
Where villains and ne’r-do-wells reside from highway goblins to politicians.
Face Paint
How to be a Goblin Workshop
Traders
Where anything from bobbins to beating sticks may be purchased.
These fine folks will do an amazing hat making workshop to take away and complete your outfit.
System?
A system in LARP is the format used to make decisions around Drama and Combat, everyone participating as a LARPer rather than a Mortal has a character, and some of the fun of the event is the chance to battle with your fellows.
Because of the nature of this event, we don't have a system per se. The idea of the game is to have fun and be as fun as possible, get hit with a weapon? It will probably hurt! Give the people playing healers a chance to do their thing!
Want to play a Healer? Fantastic! You can go over and roleplay patching up poor wounded goblins! Goblin medicine is somewhat... haphazard! Feel free to bandage, splint, pull out pretend saws etc!
Magic? Of course goblins can do magic! Sort of.... Goblin magic depends hugely on people believing they do magic. You have to sell it and the person on the receiving end has to be a good sport!
Combat?
Sometimes drama in the world of LARP is created by Combat, Combat is represented using specially created prop weapons, they are designed with the combat in mind and MUST come up to the necessary safety standards. The reasons for this is the same as why you can't bring a nerf gun or an airsoft gun to a paintball game, the assumed safety is created by making sure everyone is using the same level of equipment.
If you wish to get involved in Combat you must get your equipment checked by one of our wandering town council. or at the Guard Camp and do a quick Combat tutorial, if it turns out that you have brought something unsuitable, we will do our best to lend you something more appropriate.
The camps may be invaded by smelly orcs and other nerdowells, particularly after the mortals have gone home.
HELP! I Don’t want to do combat!
All interactions with the Goblins should be fun, if you don't want to be on the receiving end of Goblin meanness then just yell BOO at them and they should get the hint and leg it. If your a mortal you might also give them a coin for their troubles and report them to the Guard for good measure!
Helping or Trading
If you’re interested in helping out, or have questions, feel free to get in touch. We can always use volunteers, traders and performers! Gideon@theoldwyvern.com


Accessibility Statement: This is a guide site, though there are good paths and concreted areas, a lot of the site is grass and on a slope and the paths can be difficult for wheeled conveyance.

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Moneybags: make a medieval coin pouch
Aug
29

Moneybags: make a medieval coin pouch

People in medieval times carried their coins in leather or cloth pouches, which they could attach to their belt. Come along to RAMM and learn how to make your own pouch, to carry your coins or other secret treasures in.

Cost: £3.50, Drop-in


Accessibility Statement: Entrance to RAMM is via Queen Street or the Garden Entrance.

You can reach the Garden Entrance via two accessible routes via Castle Street, past Exeter Library, or via Little Queen Street and Musgrave Row, which is level.

Wheelchair users and people with mobility scooters, pushchairs and buggies can access the Garden Entrance using the ramp from the blue-badge parking area, or may use our lift at the Queen Street entrance. Small vehicles, including minibuses, can also use the parking area to drop passengers. To book blue-badge parking, please email museum.reception@exeter.gov.uk  or call 01392 265960 during opening hours – 10am to 5pm Tuesday to Sunday (closed Mondays and bank holidays).

The 16 galleries on 2 floors are fully accessible to wheelchair users. There are two lifts in the museum. There is level access on each floor with ample space to manoeuvre between displays. Some doors open automatically. Large print, hearing loops, wheelchairs, free WiFi and online BSL and subtitled videos are all available.

Our Accessibility Guide provides accurate measurements, descriptions and images of RAMM’s accessible features, helping you plan your visit with ease. This can be viewed online or downloaded as a word document. It is useful for visitors with a variety of access requirements.

The RAMM Visual Story (2MB PDF file), with pictures and words, shows how to find the museum and the facilities available. It will be particularly useful for visitors with autism and their carers. 

Assistance dogs are welcome at the museum. Our staff will be happy to provide drinking water for your dog.

There are accessible toilets on both levels of the museum, and baby changing facilities on both floors. The closest accessible Changing Place toilet is located in Princesshay shopping centre on the ground floor of St Stephen’s House at the back of Nationwide in Catherine Square, adjacent to Lloyd’s Lounge.

If a visitor requires an accompanying carer, the carer will be admitted to paying exhibitions and events free of charge.

Full information at https://rammuseum.org.uk/visit/access/

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Second-hand book and historical map sale
Aug
26

Second-hand book and historical map sale

Pick up your next read, or a piece of local cartographical history with our second-hand sale.

Following a project to identify the historical Ordnance Survey maps held by the DEI, we have found a number of duplicates which we now offer up for sale. These are accompanied by books donated by our members. All proceeds support the library. Drop in.

Cost: Free and open to all, no need to book in advance.


Accessibility Statement: The Institution is committed to improving its accessibility, and we welcome all visitors to our public events. However, we are transparent about the access limitations that the size, location, and historic nature of the building can occasion, and readily acknowledge that we are in a period of transition.

The main entrance to the DEI, (facing the Cathedral), has double doors, and is accessible for most wheelchairs. From this entrance there is level access to the foyer, and to the inner and outer libraries. We apologise for the current lack of lift access to the South Range rooms on the second floor.

As we are a small building, parking is limited, but a space can be pre-booked by contacting the office by phone: 01392 274727, or by email: office@devonandexeterinstitution.org. Priority will be given to blue badge holders. The side door into the inner library should be accessible for most wheelchair users reaching the DEI from the driveway, or the front entrance can be reached through the side door at the end of the driveway. Please do contact us if you have any further questions about your route into the DEI.

There are toilets on site, though the nearest fully accessible Changing Places toilet can be found in the Princesshay Shopping Centre, at the back of Nationwide.

The library is usually a quiet space, though can be louder during events. A timetable for events can be found on the website. If you require a quieter space, please ask a member of staff.

If sounded, the fire alarm makes a repeated sound of two tones, and flashing lights will go off in the reading room and the toilets. On an ordinary day, ringing phones and door buzzers might also be heard.

Lighting is soft throughout the building, and may be low in certain areas. Assistance dogs are welcome, and staff will be happy to provide water for your dog.

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Big Kids Takeover Day at the Library
Aug
26

Big Kids Takeover Day at the Library

The Big Kids Takeover returns!

This event promises to be an unforgettable experience for kids of all ages, with a range of exciting activities that will keep them entertained for hours, in a space they know, in a way they don’t! Join us for a day filled with games, a DJ, hilarious sumo wrestling suits, a bouncy castle, and creative face painting. All free!

Part of the Summer Reading Challenge events programme at Exeter Library.

Cost: Free, drop in!


Accessibility Statement: The Library can be accessed via Castle Street which runs parallel to Exeter Library High Street. The Library connects directly to the Rougemont Gardens.

The Library is in close proximity to Exeter Central Station (roughly 5 minutes’ walk), Exeter Bus Station (roughly 10 minutes’ walk), and many connection bus stops on the high street.

There are five Blue Badge spaces outside the main entrance and four / five at the bottom of the slope (on Musgrave Row). These are all public Blue Badge parking spaces however and not dedicated to the library.

The are numerous car parks situated within walking distance of the building, including Guildhall Centre Parking (EX4 3HJ), John Lewis Car Park (EX4 6AH) and Princesshay Parking (EX1 1EU).

The entrance to the building is wheelchair accessible. There is a circular ramp, as well as a small set of stairs. As you enter, you walk into our foyer and café area and can continue through the building to the main library floor, children’s library, and accessible toilet. The second floor houses our quiet area. The third has our Rougemont Lounge and Balcony, and Rougemont Meeting Room. The fourth floor has the public toilets.

All floor are accessible using a set of customer stairs or a public lift. The public toilets on the top floor have four cubicles, one of which is accessible (and baby changing). The Rougemont Balcony is accessible via a small step, however we have portable wheelchair ramps that can be used to allow access.

The toilet in the children’s library is accessible and has baby changing facilities.

The library furniture and bookshelves are laid out in such a way to ensure wheelchair access throughout.

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Wheelchair basketball extravaganza at the Library!
Aug
25

Wheelchair basketball extravaganza at the Library!

An open event for people to try the fast growing wheelchair sport! Everyone can give it a go! Jump in a wheelchair and have some fun! 

Part of the Summer Reading Challenge events programme at Exeter Library.

11am-12pm (ages 4-7)

1-2pm (ages 7-11)

Cost: From £3 per child


Accessibility Statement: The Library can be accessed via Castle Street which runs parallel to Exeter Library High Street. The Library connects directly to the Rougemont Gardens.

The Library is in close proximity to Exeter Central Station (roughly 5 minutes’ walk), Exeter Bus Station (roughly 10 minutes’ walk), and many connection bus stops on the high street.

There are five Blue Badge spaces outside the main entrance and four / five at the bottom of the slope (on Musgrave Row). These are all public Blue Badge parking spaces however and not dedicated to the library.

The are numerous car parks situated within walking distance of the building, including Guildhall Centre Parking (EX4 3HJ), John Lewis Car Park (EX4 6AH) and Princesshay Parking (EX1 1EU).

The entrance to the building is wheelchair accessible. There is a circular ramp, as well as a small set of stairs. As you enter, you walk into our foyer and café area and can continue through the building to the main library floor, children’s library, and accessible toilet. The second floor houses our quiet area. The third has our Rougemont Lounge and Balcony, and Rougemont Meeting Room. The fourth floor has the public toilets.

All floor are accessible using a set of customer stairs or a public lift. The public toilets on the top floor have four cubicles, one of which is accessible (and baby changing). The Rougemont Balcony is accessible via a small step, however we have portable wheelchair ramps that can be used to allow access.

The toilet in the children’s library is accessible and has baby changing facilities.

The library furniture and bookshelves are laid out in such a way to ensure wheelchair access throughout.

View Event →
LEGO Engineering at the Library
Aug
23

LEGO Engineering at the Library

Join Nick from STEMgineering for two exciting LEGO workshops.

Our popular LEGO Zip Line activity teaches maths, science, and design skills while promoting creative thinking through play-based learning.

In the bridge building challenge, children use LEGO bricks to build the longest, tallest, strongest, and most creative bridges, developing engineering skills and teamwork. Don't miss out on the hands-on fun and learning!

10-11am (Zip Lining)
11.30am-12.30pm (Bridge Building)

Part of the Summer Reading Challenge events programme at Exeter Library.

Cost: £4 per child


Accessibility Statement: The Library can be accessed via Castle Street which runs parallel to Exeter Library High Street. The Library connects directly to the Rougemont Gardens.

The Library is in close proximity to Exeter Central Station (roughly 5 minutes’ walk), Exeter Bus Station (roughly 10 minutes’ walk), and many connection bus stops on the high street.

There are five Blue Badge spaces outside the main entrance and four / five at the bottom of the slope (on Musgrave Row). These are all public Blue Badge parking spaces however and not dedicated to the library.

The are numerous car parks situated within walking distance of the building, including Guildhall Centre Parking (EX4 3HJ), John Lewis Car Park (EX4 6AH) and Princesshay Parking (EX1 1EU).

The entrance to the building is wheelchair accessible. There is a circular ramp, as well as a small set of stairs. As you enter, you walk into our foyer and café area and can continue through the building to the main library floor, children’s library, and accessible toilet. The second floor houses our quiet area. The third has our Rougemont Lounge and Balcony, and Rougemont Meeting Room. The fourth floor has the public toilets.

All floor are accessible using a set of customer stairs or a public lift. The public toilets on the top floor have four cubicles, one of which is accessible (and baby changing). The Rougemont Balcony is accessible via a small step, however we have portable wheelchair ramps that can be used to allow access.

The toilet in the children’s library is accessible and has baby changing facilities.

The library furniture and bookshelves are laid out in such a way to ensure wheelchair access throughout.

View Event →
Castle siege: make a medieval trebuchet
Aug
22

Castle siege: make a medieval trebuchet

Build your own fully working model trebuchet and see how far you can get your projectile to travel. We’ll provide all the parts for you to assemble.

Then visit the RAMM Garden to use our larger model catapults to attack the castle. How much damage can you inflict on the sturdy walls and battlements?

Catapults have been used by armies since ancient times. The Greeks invented the ‘ballista’ which, like a crossbow, generated force from the tension of the bow arms. The Romans used an ‘onager’ which got its power from torsion created by twisted animal hair or sinew.

By the medieval period, they were using ’trebuchets’ to launch large projectiles, mostly rocks or lead balls, at castle fortifications and were very successful at breaking down the walls. They used a counterweight to swing the long arm up, releasing the projectile and trebuchets were, perhaps, the most terrifying weapon defenders faced.

Cost: £3.50, Drop-in


Accessibility Statement: Entrance to RAMM is via Queen Street or the Garden Entrance.

You can reach the Garden Entrance via two accessible routes via Castle Street, past Exeter Library, or via Little Queen Street and Musgrave Row, which is level.

Wheelchair users and people with mobility scooters, pushchairs and buggies can access the Garden Entrance using the ramp from the blue-badge parking area, or may use our lift at the Queen Street entrance. Small vehicles, including minibuses, can also use the parking area to drop passengers. To book blue-badge parking, please email museum.reception@exeter.gov.uk  or call 01392 265960 during opening hours – 10am to 5pm Tuesday to Sunday (closed Mondays and bank holidays).

The 16 galleries on 2 floors are fully accessible to wheelchair users. There are two lifts in the museum. There is level access on each floor with ample space to manoeuvre between displays. Some doors open automatically. Large print, hearing loops, wheelchairs, free WiFi and online BSL and subtitled videos are all available.

Our Accessibility Guide provides accurate measurements, descriptions and images of RAMM’s accessible features, helping you plan your visit with ease. This can be viewed online or downloaded as a word document. It is useful for visitors with a variety of access requirements.

The RAMM Visual Story (2MB PDF file), with pictures and words, shows how to find the museum and the facilities available. It will be particularly useful for visitors with autism and their carers. 

Assistance dogs are welcome at the museum. Our staff will be happy to provide drinking water for your dog.

There are accessible toilets on both levels of the museum, and baby changing facilities on both floors. The closest accessible Changing Place toilet is located in Princesshay shopping centre on the ground floor of St Stephen’s House at the back of Nationwide in Catherine Square, adjacent to Lloyd’s Lounge.

If a visitor requires an accompanying carer, the carer will be admitted to paying exhibitions and events free of charge.

Full information at https://rammuseum.org.uk/visit/access/

View Event →
Tug-of-Oars! Coding Workshop at the Library
Aug
21

Tug-of-Oars! Coding Workshop at the Library

Challenge others in a game of Tug-of-oars!

Based on the Polish Dragon Boat Racing from 2015. Tap the keys and move the boat to your winning side. Use the web program Scratch and its drag-and-drop blocks to create code! The only skill we ask is that they know how to use a mouse. For beginners / anyone with an interest in coding. We recommend for ages 7+, but speak to a member of staff if you have questions.

10 - 11am / 12 - 1pm

Part of the Summer Reading Challenge events programme at Exeter Library.

Cost: Free, booking required


Accessibility Statement: The Library can be accessed via Castle Street which runs parallel to Exeter Library High Street. The Library connects directly to the Rougemont Gardens.

The Library is in close proximity to Exeter Central Station (roughly 5 minutes’ walk), Exeter Bus Station (roughly 10 minutes’ walk), and many connection bus stops on the high street.

There are five Blue Badge spaces outside the main entrance and four / five at the bottom of the slope (on Musgrave Row). These are all public Blue Badge parking spaces however and not dedicated to the library.

The are numerous car parks situated within walking distance of the building, including Guildhall Centre Parking (EX4 3HJ), John Lewis Car Park (EX4 6AH) and Princesshay Parking (EX1 1EU).

The entrance to the building is wheelchair accessible. There is a circular ramp, as well as a small set of stairs. As you enter, you walk into our foyer and café area and can continue through the building to the main library floor, children’s library, and accessible toilet. The second floor houses our quiet area. The third has our Rougemont Lounge and Balcony, and Rougemont Meeting Room. The fourth floor has the public toilets.

All floor are accessible using a set of customer stairs or a public lift. The public toilets on the top floor have four cubicles, one of which is accessible (and baby changing). The Rougemont Balcony is accessible via a small step, however we have portable wheelchair ramps that can be used to allow access.

The toilet in the children’s library is accessible and has baby changing facilities.

The library furniture and bookshelves are laid out in such a way to ensure wheelchair access throughout.

View Event →
Kickboxing in the Library!
Aug
21

Kickboxing in the Library!

Join us for this kickboxing taster session at the Library, led by the amazing Ash Herron Academy.

Part of the Summer Reading Challenge events programme at Exeter Library.

2pm-3pm (ages 4-7)

3pm-4pm (ages 7-11)

Cost: Free, booking essential


Accessibility Statement: The Library can be accessed via Castle Street which runs parallel to Exeter Library High Street. The Library connects directly to the Rougemont Gardens.

The Library is in close proximity to Exeter Central Station (roughly 5 minutes’ walk), Exeter Bus Station (roughly 10 minutes’ walk), and many connection bus stops on the high street.

There are five Blue Badge spaces outside the main entrance and four / five at the bottom of the slope (on Musgrave Row). These are all public Blue Badge parking spaces however and not dedicated to the library.

The are numerous car parks situated within walking distance of the building, including Guildhall Centre Parking (EX4 3HJ), John Lewis Car Park (EX4 6AH) and Princesshay Parking (EX1 1EU).

The entrance to the building is wheelchair accessible. There is a circular ramp, as well as a small set of stairs. As you enter, you walk into our foyer and café area and can continue through the building to the main library floor, children’s library, and accessible toilet. The second floor houses our quiet area. The third has our Rougemont Lounge and Balcony, and Rougemont Meeting Room. The fourth floor has the public toilets.

All floor are accessible using a set of customer stairs or a public lift. The public toilets on the top floor have four cubicles, one of which is accessible (and baby changing). The Rougemont Balcony is accessible via a small step, however we have portable wheelchair ramps that can be used to allow access.

The toilet in the children’s library is accessible and has baby changing facilities.

The library furniture and bookshelves are laid out in such a way to ensure wheelchair access throughout.

View Event →
Exeter City Community Trust Football Takeover!
Aug
19

Exeter City Community Trust Football Takeover!

The Football Club are taking over!

Join us for this family fun day with indoor inflatable football pitches, a penalty shootout competition in the garden, and a visit from some special football guests.

Part of the Summer Reading Challenge events programme at Exeter Library.

Cost: Free, drop in


Accessibility Statement: The Library can be accessed via Castle Street which runs parallel to Exeter Library High Street. The Library connects directly to the Rougemont Gardens.

The Library is in close proximity to Exeter Central Station (roughly 5 minutes’ walk), Exeter Bus Station (roughly 10 minutes’ walk), and many connection bus stops on the high street.

There are five Blue Badge spaces outside the main entrance and four / five at the bottom of the slope (on Musgrave Row). These are all public Blue Badge parking spaces however and not dedicated to the library.

The are numerous car parks situated within walking distance of the building, including Guildhall Centre Parking (EX4 3HJ), John Lewis Car Park (EX4 6AH) and Princesshay Parking (EX1 1EU).

The entrance to the building is wheelchair accessible. There is a circular ramp, as well as a small set of stairs. As you enter, you walk into our foyer and café area and can continue through the building to the main library floor, children’s library, and accessible toilet. The second floor houses our quiet area. The third has our Rougemont Lounge and Balcony, and Rougemont Meeting Room. The fourth floor has the public toilets.

All floor are accessible using a set of customer stairs or a public lift. The public toilets on the top floor have four cubicles, one of which is accessible (and baby changing). The Rougemont Balcony is accessible via a small step, however we have portable wheelchair ramps that can be used to allow access.

The toilet in the children’s library is accessible and has baby changing facilities.

The library furniture and bookshelves are laid out in such a way to ensure wheelchair access throughout.

View Event →
Exeter Community Chiefs Rugby Skills Challenge
Aug
18

Exeter Community Chiefs Rugby Skills Challenge

Come and meet the Exeter Community Chiefs and take part in these fun Rugby Skills games.

A perfect introduction to rugby. All abilities welcome.

11am-12pm & 1pm-2pm

Part of the Summer Reading Challenge events programme at Exeter Library.

Cost: Free


Accessibility Statement: The Library can be accessed via Castle Street which runs parallel to Exeter Library High Street. The Library connects directly to the Rougemont Gardens.

The Library is in close proximity to Exeter Central Station (roughly 5 minutes’ walk), Exeter Bus Station (roughly 10 minutes’ walk), and many connection bus stops on the high street.

There are five Blue Badge spaces outside the main entrance and four / five at the bottom of the slope (on Musgrave Row). These are all public Blue Badge parking spaces however and not dedicated to the library.

The are numerous car parks situated within walking distance of the building, including Guildhall Centre Parking (EX4 3HJ), John Lewis Car Park (EX4 6AH) and Princesshay Parking (EX1 1EU).

The entrance to the building is wheelchair accessible. There is a circular ramp, as well as a small set of stairs. As you enter, you walk into our foyer and café area and can continue through the building to the main library floor, children’s library, and accessible toilet. The second floor houses our quiet area. The third has our Rougemont Lounge and Balcony, and Rougemont Meeting Room. The fourth floor has the public toilets.

All floor are accessible using a set of customer stairs or a public lift. The public toilets on the top floor have four cubicles, one of which is accessible (and baby changing). The Rougemont Balcony is accessible via a small step, however we have portable wheelchair ramps that can be used to allow access.

The toilet in the children’s library is accessible and has baby changing facilities.

The library furniture and bookshelves are laid out in such a way to ensure wheelchair access throughout.

View Event →
Tales at the Cuckoo Taproom with The Old Wyvern
Aug
17

Tales at the Cuckoo Taproom with The Old Wyvern

Come one, Come all!

To sup deep of Dionysus blessing!

Good Company! Fine drinks! And of course: Tales and myths, legends and folklore both local and far-flung, both mystical and urbane.

Two hours of one man show, that swings from serious to hilarious, romantic to damned.

There is a suggested payment of £2 for attendance, but any penny in a tankard is gratefully received


Accessibility Statement: The venue itself is accessible, however, the toilets are up two flights of stairs.

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LEGO Engineering at the Library
Aug
16

LEGO Engineering at the Library

Join Nick from STEMgineering for two exciting LEGO workshops.

Our popular LEGO Zip Line activity teaches maths, science, and design skills while promoting creative thinking through play-based learning.

In the bridge building challenge, children use LEGO bricks to build the longest, tallest, strongest, and most creative bridges, developing engineering skills and teamwork. Don't miss out on the hands-on fun and learning!

10-11am (Zip Lining)
11.30am-12.30pm (Bridge Building)

Part of the Summer Reading Challenge events programme at Exeter Library.

Cost: £4 per child


Accessibility Statement: The Library can be accessed via Castle Street which runs parallel to Exeter Library High Street. The Library connects directly to the Rougemont Gardens.

The Library is in close proximity to Exeter Central Station (roughly 5 minutes’ walk), Exeter Bus Station (roughly 10 minutes’ walk), and many connection bus stops on the high street.

There are five Blue Badge spaces outside the main entrance and four / five at the bottom of the slope (on Musgrave Row). These are all public Blue Badge parking spaces however and not dedicated to the library.

The are numerous car parks situated within walking distance of the building, including Guildhall Centre Parking (EX4 3HJ), John Lewis Car Park (EX4 6AH) and Princesshay Parking (EX1 1EU).

The entrance to the building is wheelchair accessible. There is a circular ramp, as well as a small set of stairs. As you enter, you walk into our foyer and café area and can continue through the building to the main library floor, children’s library, and accessible toilet. The second floor houses our quiet area. The third has our Rougemont Lounge and Balcony, and Rougemont Meeting Room. The fourth floor has the public toilets.

All floor are accessible using a set of customer stairs or a public lift. The public toilets on the top floor have four cubicles, one of which is accessible (and baby changing). The Rougemont Balcony is accessible via a small step, however we have portable wheelchair ramps that can be used to allow access.

The toilet in the children’s library is accessible and has baby changing facilities.

The library furniture and bookshelves are laid out in such a way to ensure wheelchair access throughout.

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Alphabet art: design and make an illuminated letter
Aug
15

Alphabet art: design and make an illuminated letter

Using inspiration from the manuscripts in our exhibition Gatekeepers to Heaven, make your own illuminated letter. Decide on your letter and design it first on paper, adding emblems from nature. It could be a flowering branch, a trailing vine or maybe a mythical creature.

Then copy your design onto the sheet of metal to engrave and emboss. Add paint, and your medieval illuminated letter will be ready for framing and displaying.

Cost: £3.50, Drop-in


Accessibility Statement: Entrance to RAMM is via Queen Street or the Garden Entrance.

You can reach the Garden Entrance via two accessible routes via Castle Street, past Exeter Library, or via Little Queen Street and Musgrave Row, which is level.

Wheelchair users and people with mobility scooters, pushchairs and buggies can access the Garden Entrance using the ramp from the blue-badge parking area, or may use our lift at the Queen Street entrance. Small vehicles, including minibuses, can also use the parking area to drop passengers. To book blue-badge parking, please email museum.reception@exeter.gov.uk  or call 01392 265960 during opening hours – 10am to 5pm Tuesday to Sunday (closed Mondays and bank holidays).

The 16 galleries on 2 floors are fully accessible to wheelchair users. There are two lifts in the museum. There is level access on each floor with ample space to manoeuvre between displays. Some doors open automatically. Large print, hearing loops, wheelchairs, free WiFi and online BSL and subtitled videos are all available.

Our Accessibility Guide provides accurate measurements, descriptions and images of RAMM’s accessible features, helping you plan your visit with ease. This can be viewed online or downloaded as a word document. It is useful for visitors with a variety of access requirements.

The RAMM Visual Story (2MB PDF file), with pictures and words, shows how to find the museum and the facilities available. It will be particularly useful for visitors with autism and their carers. 

Assistance dogs are welcome at the museum. Our staff will be happy to provide drinking water for your dog.

There are accessible toilets on both levels of the museum, and baby changing facilities on both floors. The closest accessible Changing Place toilet is located in Princesshay shopping centre on the ground floor of St Stephen’s House at the back of Nationwide in Catherine Square, adjacent to Lloyd’s Lounge.

If a visitor requires an accompanying carer, the carer will be admitted to paying exhibitions and events free of charge.

Full information at https://rammuseum.org.uk/visit/access/

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