Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel | Old Town Views & Pool

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Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel Exterior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

Southernhay East, Exeter, United Kingdom, EX1 1QF

Steps from the Exeter Guildhall

Great

8.0

8.1

/10

3.6

3.7

Loved by Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel guests

Really good staff
Quiet and comfortable
Good quality bathroom
Excellent service

"Great stay. Room was quite large, r caption staff were extremely polite and the hotel had great facilities with a pool, gym and sauna."

James from United States

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"A privilege room with lovely view over trees, quiet & well equipped (Nespresso machine, drinks & nibbles in the fridge, lovely bathroom, huge bed, lovely toiletries etc)."

Chl0 from United Kingdom

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"Breakfast was very good and the location was excellent for the Cathedral, Quay area and City Centre."

Patricia from United Kingdom

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4-star city-center hotel in Exeter

Accommodation Options

Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel provides a variety of rooms to meet different needs. The hotel offers 154 comfortable rooms, including Privilege Rooms with additional amenities like Nespresso coffee machines and bathrobes. Each room includes an ensuite bathroom and complimentary toiletries for convenience.

Dining Experience

The hotel features an on-site restaurant, the Brasserie, which serves a diverse menu of local and seasonal dishes. Guests can enjoy a selection of fine wines and craft beers at the bar area. A hearty breakfast buffet is available each morning to fuel a productive day.

Business Facilities

Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel includes six fully equipped meeting rooms for conferences and events. The largest room accommodates up to 180 guests and provides advanced audiovisual technology. A dedicated events team is available to ensure seamless coordination.

Wellness Amenities

The hotel features an indoor heated pool perfect for a refreshing swim. A well-equipped gym is available for guests who wish to maintain their fitness routine. Relaxation can be found in the sauna, providing a quiet escape after a busy day.

Prime Location

Set in the city center, Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel is conveniently close to historical landmarks. The Exeter Cathedral and Rougemont Castle are just a short walk away. Additionally, the hotel provides easy access to Exeter St. Davids Train Station.

Highlights

Accommodation: 154 comfortable rooms

Dining: Brasserie with local dishes

Business: six fully equipped meeting rooms

Wellness: indoor heated pool

“In my opinion, this is a property that nicely balances historical charm with modern needs, appealing to both business and leisure travelers. The location is a real draw, offering immediate access to Exeter's attractions. While some aspects like parking and leisure facilities incur extra costs, the hotel's family-friendly focus and well-appointed rooms stand out.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.3/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

Sports & FitnessInvigorating Escape

The fitness centre has a swimming pool and sauna. Guests can enjoy a swim, with the pool heated to 30 degrees.

Marcus from Sweden

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Guest ParkingHassle-Free Arrival

Parking on arrival was easy and free. Guests can leave their car at the hotel to enjoy the city.

Jean from France

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DiningSatisfying Start

The buffet breakfast provides a full European-style selection. There are many options and hot and cold breakfast choices.

Kenji from Japan

Review on

Room FeaturesBedroom Bliss

My room had a king-size bed and a sofa bed. The biggest TV I've ever seen in a hotel bedroom!

Rajesh from India

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Select your room type

Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Standard Twin Room

2 persons

155 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

room details

Privilege Room

2 persons

155 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Classic Room

2 persons

155 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Bathtub

room details

Accessible Classic Room One Double or Two single Beds

2 persons

195 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Heating

room details

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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.2/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
On-site car park
Handicap parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Express check-in/ -out
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Security
Luggage storage
Locker room
Lift
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Yoga class
Sports trainer

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Pet amenities available
Room service
Housekeeping
Dry cleaning
Welcome drink

Dining

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

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

Indoor swimming pool
Spa lounge
Sauna
Jacuzzi

Room features

Heating
Mini-bar
Sitting area
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries
Sink

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
Direct dial telephone
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel, The Gate House invites diners to experience a delightful blend of British and European cuisine, all within a family-friendly environment. Enjoy meals from breakfast through dinner amidst an atmosphere that reflects Exeter's rich history.

The Gate House

British, European

Ambiance

A welcoming family-friendly setting with interconnected public areas, featuring a contemporary lounge bar and comfortable sofas, designed with visual references to Exeter's history.

Key Offerings

Breakfast and lunch options include freshly prepared cooked-to-order dishes, while dinner features vegetarian and gluten-free choices. Signature offerings may include traditional omelettes and kippers for breakfast.

Reservation

Not needed

Open daily from 06:30 to 21:00 for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel Location

Southernhay East, Exeter, United Kingdom, EX1 1QF

Map view

Southernhay East, Exeter, United Kingdom, EX1 1QF

City landmarks

Museum

Royal Albert Memorial Museum

2400 ft

Landmark

Exeter Quay

1.0 mi

Park

Northernhay Gardens

2300 ft

Castle

Rougemont Castle

2300 ft

Landmark

Underground Passages

2000 ft

Landmark

St Nicholas Priory

2200 ft

Landmark

Queen Street

2900 ft

Landmark

Miles' Clocktower

2900 ft

Art object

Redvers Buller

3400 ft

Bridge

The Iron Bridge

2200 ft

Church

Riverside Church

3000 ft

Nearby

Church

Exeter Cathedral

1600 ft

17 Catherine St

St Catherine's Chapel and Almshouses

1300 ft

Exeter - Catacombs and Lower Cemetery

800 ft

Phoenix Blitz Memorial

Blitz Fountain and the Phoenix Blitz Memorial

800 ft

Cathedral Yard Exeter Cathedral

Statue of Richard Hooker

1100 ft

Frog Street In a park off Frog Street

The Medieval Exe Bridge

1800 ft

Church

St Stephen's Church

1400 ft

Princesshay

Blue Boy Statue

1500 ft

Event hall

Exeter Guildhall

1300 ft

Exeter High Street

Exeter Riddle Sculpture

1500 ft

Church

St Pancras Church

1600 ft

251 High Street

Year of the Pedestrian Statue

1900 ft

National Trust's Killerton Estate

Clyston Mill

800 ft

Near Killerton House

Budlake Old Post Office

800 ft

Church

St Martin's Church

1100 ft

Shopping Area

Princesshay

1600 ft

Edmund Street

The House That Moved

1500 ft

Event hall

Tucker's Hall. The Guild of Weavers

1600 ft

Cathedral Yard

Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market

1400 ft

Restaurants

Opa Taverna

700 ft

36-37 South Street

Cosy Club Exeter

600 ft

1 Southernhay East

White Hart

700 ft

66 South Street White Hart Hotel

Sparkles

800 ft

10-12 Palace Gate

The Fusion Buffet

900 ft

10 Palace Gate

Real India

900 ft

28 South Street

On The Waterfront

1400 ft

4-9 Southern Warehouse

Cote Brasserie

1700 ft

19-21 Cathedral Yard

Pasha

1100 ft

80 South Street

Kaspa's Desserts

1000 ft

1 Market Street

Tang Shian

1000 ft

77-78 South Street

Explore Exeter

Local Experiences

Exeter Cathedral

6 minutes' walk

Gothic architecture, stunning stained glass, and historic significance combine in this iconic landmark.

Royal Albert Memorial Museum

9 minutes' walk

A rich collection of art and cultural artifacts, with free admission and regular guided tours available.

Underground Passages

8 minutes' walk

A unique chance to stroll through Exeter's medieval underground passages, offering insight into the city's history.

Rougemont Castle

9 minutes' walk

Historic ruin with impressive views and beautiful surroundings, perfect for a quick visit or a picnic.

Biking along the River Exe

20 minutes' walk

Scenic bike paths available for rental, ideal for leisurely rides along the riverside with beautiful views.

Yoga sessions at Northernhay Gardens

9 minutes' walk

Relaxing outdoor yoga classes in a tranquil park setting, well-suited for all skill levels.

Exeter Eagles BMX

5 minutes' drive

Thrilling BMX track for adrenaline-seekers, with rental options and training sessions for beginners.

Cosy Club Exeter

2 minutes' walk

Eclectic decor and a relaxed vibe with diverse menu options. Vegetarian-friendly with delicious brunch options.

Opa Taverna

3 minutes' walk

Charming Greek restaurant known for its souvlaki and meze platters. Pleasant atmosphere suitable for families.

The Fusion Buffet

4 minutes' walk

A vibrant buffet offering a variety of cuisines, perfect for those with diverse tastes and dietary needs.

The Phoenix Theatre

10 minutes' walk

A modern theatre featuring films, live performances, and comedy shows. Family-friendly programming available.

Exeter Quay

20 minutes' walk

Lively waterfront spot with bars and live music, ideal for a night out. Events often feature local performers.

Getting around

City Centre

Exeter5 min · 1400 ft

Airports

Exeter International (EXT)14 min · 5.7 mi

Bristol (BRS)161 min · 66.6 mi

Train

Exeter St Thomas Railway Station10 min · 2700 ft

Exeter St Davids Train Station18 min · 5000 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Public parking is possible on site at GBP 16 per day.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

The hotel offers a full breakfast at the price of GBP16.50 per person per day.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Languages

English, German, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, Portuguese, Swedish, Hungarian, Romanian, Polish, Latvian

Year renovated:

2008

Number of rooms:

153

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Guests often appreciate the hotel's location, finding it's an easy walk to Exeter Cathedral and the city centre, as well as the historic Quayside. The rooms are generally considered spacious, and some include the convenience of a mini-fridge. Breakfast is often described as generous, with the option to enjoy it indoors or on the terrace; however, a few guests have mentioned issues with the air conditioning.

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Review score

Based on 2413 verified reviews

7.6/10

Very good

74%

Recommend

Location

9.3/10

Staff

8.8/10

Paid Wi-Fi

7.1/10

Breakfast

7.5/10

Pros

Luxurious hotel

Friendly staff

Perfect location

Spacious room

Fabulous facilities

Cons

Broken TV

Aircon issues

Hidden charges

Joan from United States

Family with children

Family Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 12, 2026

9/10

Really good Hospitality Shines Through

fast check-inrestaurant menusspacious roomconvenient location

Lucy provided a fast check-in at reception and explained the hotel's leisure facilities. She showed us restaurant menus, detailing options for our little one. The room was spacious and well-equipped for a comfortable stay. The location allows for exploring the city with ease.

I found the cost has risen quite a bit since my last stay.

Rooms

9/10

The family room features comfortable beds with clean bedding. There are fresh towels and toiletries stocked in the bathroom. The climate control worked effectively, helping to maintain the right temperature, made the space relaxing.

0 Helpful

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Joan from Ireland

Family with children

Family Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 14, 2026

9.2/10

Amazing Stay, Super clean Rooms, Very nice Staff

fast check-inspacious roomhelpful staffperfect location

Lucy provided great assistance during a fast check-in. She thoroughly explained the hotel facilities and restaurant options, it was really helpful. The room was spacious, clean, and it provided everything for a comfortable stay. The staff are friendly, helpful, and they are always available to solve any problem. The location allows easy exploration of the city. It is perfect to walk everywhere.

I found that the pool access incurred an extra charge.

Rooms

9/10

The room included a comfortable bed and fresh linens. It was well kept. The bathroom was modern. It featured a clean shower. The room size allowed for comfortable movement, I loved it.

Dining

9/10

The hotel has multiple on-site restaurants offering diverse menus. They cater to various dietary needs. Breakfast included many options. All were fresh. The service was quick, I did not wait at all.

Location

10/10

The hotel is centrally located. It provides easy access to many attractions. Walking to the cathedral took only five minutes, so close. The area felt safe at night, it was assuring.

Service

10/10

The reception staff offered great assistance during check-in. All requests were handled quickly. Helena provided excellent service. I felt very welcomed. Staff members remembered my name, I was surprised.

Facilities

8/10

The hotel provided parking on-site, this was very useful. The spa looked clean and well-kept. It has great options. The pool area looked inviting. It seemed very relaxing.

0 Helpful

Ava from United States

Business traveller

Standard Twin Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 02, 2026

6/10

An adequate stay.

convenient locationfriendly staffon-site parkingcold roombroken dispenserblack tiles

The location was quite convenient. The staff were friendly upon arrival. The convenience of on-site parking was a plus. The air conditioning in the room was functional too.

The room was quite cold. The soap dispenser in the bathroom was broken. Some shower tiles had gone black. The silicone around the shower also had black spots.

0 Helpful

jayden from united kingdom

Couple

classic room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 01, 2026

8.5/10

totally awesome stay!

lovely staffmodern lookgreat locationgood stay

the welcome from the staff was lovely. the entrance hall had a modern look. i book here often because the location is fab. the hotel was in a great location and i had a really good stay!!!

i found no complimentary water in the room.

Service

9/10

reception offered great service. staff were lovely and helpful. the welcome from the staff was really great. they were super friendly.

Dining

8/10

breakfast was decent. there was a wide choice of continental-style breakfast products. breakfast was included with my stay. it was quite convenient.

Rooms

9/10

the room had all the amenities i could expect. this included an iron and ironing board. the bed and pillows were very comfy. the shower was lovely.

Facilities

8/10

on site hotel parking is very useful. the spa was very good. the hotel provides a pool area. there is also a gym.

0 Helpful

Ava from United Kingdom

Classic Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 06, 2025

6/10

Acceptable but With a Caveat

comfy bedextra charge

The room had a very comfy bed and the staff seemed friendly.

It seems like they focus more on the spa guests now, this is not good.

0 Helpful

Elijah from United States

Family with children

Standard Twin Room

4 nights in June 2025

Reviewed: August 31, 2025

6/10

a adequate stay

central locationfriendly staffkitchen areacramped roomhard pillowfaulty window

the location allowed exploring. the staff proved friendly. i found the twin room exceeding my expectations. the kitchen area included a fridge.

my family room felt cramped with the bed settee out. the bed firmness bothered me, also the pillows felt hard. the sash window failed to stay open without assistance.

0 Helpful