Sports, dance and activity clubs around Exeter that welcome newcomers, with their regular sessions. Outdoor clubs further afield are included when they need the landscape.
parkrun every Saturday at 9am and junior parkrun (2k, for 4 to 14-year-olds) every…Free
Cranbrook · Running
Free Saturday 5km parkrun and Sunday 2km junior parkrun in Cranbrook Country Park, on a flat route of gravel paths and grass. Hosted by Cranbrook Running Club.
New here? Open to all abilities; register once with parkrun before your first run. Junior parkrun is for children aged 4 to 14.
Mondays, 6pm · Wednesdays, 6:30pm
Cranbrook · Running
Cranbrook-based club meeting twice a week, open to complete beginners and experienced runners, with a couch to 5k course twice a year. Also hosts the Cranbrook Country Park parkruns.
New here? Runs are open to complete beginners as well as seasoned runners; couch to 5k offered twice a year.
Mondays, 12pm–1pm£7.50 per session; five for £30 in 2024
Exeter (Exeter Arena) · Running
Paid, coach-led run sessions at Exeter Arena for beginners through to experienced runners, run by City Runs.
New here? Suited to beginners, fitness enthusiasts and experienced runners.
Tue and Thu, 6:30pm–7:30pm · Tue and Thu, 7:30pm–8:45pmFees on the club's Training Fees…
Exeter (Exeter Arena) · Running
Athletics club training on the track at Exeter Arena for juniors from age 8 and adults, from beginners to experienced athletes. Coaches hold UKA licences and are DBS checked.
New here? Newcomers email the welcome desk; temporary (trial) membership is available. First-timers should arrive by 18:15 (juniors) or 19:00 (seniors) to do paperwork. Some senior groups may be full from 1 May to 19 June.
Every Saturday at 9amFree
Exeter (Quay and River Valley Park) · Running
Free weekly timed 5km run at Exeter Quay and River Valley Park, open to walkers, joggers and runners at any pace. Register once with parkrun and bring your barcode.
New here? Open to everyone; register once on parkrun.org.uk before the first run.
Reported to meet Thursdays around 18:30-19:30 at Haven Banks car park
Exeter (Haven Banks) · Running
Weekly Thursday-evening run club meeting at Haven Banks car park, according to a travel-guide listing. Details are thin, so check its social page before going.
Tuesdays, 6:30pm–8pmFree
Exeter (starts at Exeter Phoenix) · Running
Weekly group run to a local community task (gardening, litter picking), then back. Short distances of 1-2km in total, so it suits beginners who can run for 15 minutes.
New here? New GoodGymers welcome; labelled ideal for beginners. If you cannot run 15 minutes without stopping, contact GoodGym first.
Thursdays, 6:45pm–8pmHalf-year membership Sep 2026 to Mar…
Exeter (Quay) · Running
Thursday evening club night from the Quay with two groups: a 10-12k or structured session, and a chattier paced 8-10k. Suits regular runners; newcomers can come for a free trial.
New here? Come along for a free trial; ask for the founder on arrival and you will be paired with a member.
Listing says Wednesday club night, arrive about 18:40 for 19:00, plus a relaxed coached…Free first week, then £2 a night…
Exeter (Exeter Arena) · Running
Exeter club with several pace groups on a Wednesday club night from Exeter Arena; non-members welcome to turn up.
New here? Non-members very welcome, just turn up; free the first week, then a small subscription.
Ride days and times not found
Exeter · Cycling
Exeter club offering regular club rides, social rides and sportives to adults, originally founded by Howmet employees.
New here? Welcomes all aged over 18 (under 18 with a responsible adult).
Sunday rides (book by Saturday midday) and an easy-paced Thursday Bike BusCycling UK membership after three rides
Exeter (Quay, West Hill, other start points) · Cycling
Cycling UK's Exeter group runs Sunday day rides (A, about 35-60 miles; B, about 25-40) and a gentle Thursday Bike Bus with a coffee stop. Booking is required.
New here? New riders are always very welcome; asked to join Cycling UK after three rides.
Sundays, 8am–11:30amFree
Pinhoe, Exeter · Cycling
Sunday road rides of 40-60 miles at 16-18mph with a coffee stop and a no-drop policy, starting from Pinhoe. Joining is by Strava club.
New here? Request to join via Strava; no-drop policy.
Wednesdays, 10:45am–12:30pmFree
Exeter (Quay) · Walking & hiking
Free, easy-paced walk of about 3 miles along the Exe at Exeter Quay for adults, run by the Step One charity.
New here? Registration encouraged, walk-ins welcome.
Walks are listed individually on the Ramblers siteFree to try three walks, then…
Exeter and Devon · Walking & hiking
Ramblers group with longer Sunday walks, shorter mid-week walks and leisurely ambles of up to 3 miles from points around Exeter.
New here? New walkers can try three walks before being asked to join the Ramblers.
Weekly at 10:30Free
Heavitree, Exeter · Walking & hiking
Free weekly volunteer-led health walk in Heavitree, with a flat Grade 1 route and a longer Grade 2 route with some slopes.
New here? Open to all; leaders wear yellow tabards.
Training times are in the club's 2026–27 timetable, which isn't published as text on…£36 a month plus annual membership fee
Exeter (Exeter School and other city pools) · Swimming
The Masters squad of Exeter City Swimming Club, coached training for adult swimmers aged over 20 who want to train and race, from local open meets upwards.
New here? Swim England's club finder lists Masters as open to new members, with newcomer and improver levels. Squad criteria: over 20 and 'trainability'; use the club's enquiry form.
Weekly racing in seasonSee membership fees page; RYA Level 2…
Exmouth · 11 miles from Exeter · Watersports
Exmouth dinghy club with weekly racing, RYA courses and a Get Racing scheme for new racers. It runs taster sails and open days and has a Sailability programme for disabled people.
New here? Taster sails (20 minutes, free at past open days) and RYA courses; Get Racing programme for new racers; join via the website.
Tuesdays, 6:30pm–8pm · Thursdays, 6:30pm–8pm and moreFree taster session
Exeter (Quay) · Watersports
Dragon boat club paddling on the Exeter Canal at the quay. Equipment and coaching are provided and newcomers can book a free taster.
New here? Free taster session; get in touch before turning up so they can accommodate you.
Tuesdays, 7:45pm · Fridays, 8pmTry dive £30 adults, £20 juniors;…
Exeter (Haven Road and Riverside Leisure Centre) · Watersports
BSAC diving club based at the Haven Road water sports site, training new divers in the pool at Riverside and diving off the Devon coast all year. It suits complete beginners, lapsed divers and qualified divers from any agency.
Flying depends on wind and weather, at sites from about 8 to 25 miles from Exeter£25 a year (plus BHPA membership)
East Devon and Somerset coast and hills · 15 miles from Exeter · Air sports
A hang gliding and paragliding club for qualified BHPA pilots with 17 sites from West Bay to Exmouth and inland, including Bickleigh and Beer Head. Learners train at a BHPA school first, then join the club.
New here? For pilots with the BHPA Club Pilot rating. Learners can join while training at a BHPA school, but fly with the club once qualified.
Club flies on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, weather permitting
Honiton (North Hill, Sheldon) · 19 miles from Exeter · Air sports
Gliding club on North Hill Airfield in the Blackdown Hills. Trial lessons give a 15-30 minute flight with an instructor, and the club trains new pilots.
New here? Trial lessons on flying days: 15 to 30 minutes in a two-seat glider with an instructor. Junior gliding too.
Last Wednesday of the month, 7:30pm
Woodbury Common (East Devon) · 9 miles from Exeter · Air sports
A radio control model flying club (aircraft, helicopters, boats) flying from Woodbury Common, with a beginner training scheme leading to the BMFA A certificate.
Training scheme starts with ground school, then flying tuition to the BMFA A certificate; temporary membership available; guests can fly with permission via the contact form.
Tuesdays, 6pm–7pm · Fridays, 6pm–7pmPay as you go entry (price on site);…
Exeter (Tudor Street) · Climbing
A bouldering-only climbing gym by Exe Bridges with an instructor-led social session, a women's social night and Boulder Basics introductions included with entry.
New here? Boulder Basics, a staff-led introduction to bouldering, is included with entry; rental shoes and chalk provided; Social Climbing is beginner-friendly.
Bouldering meetups at the Climbing Hangar, usually on Wednesday or Thursday eveningsHangar entry fee applies
Exeter (Marsh Barton) · Climbing
Social Meetup group that organises bouldering evenings at The Climbing Hangar for beginners and experienced climbers, with occasional other climbing trips.
New here? Welcomes beginners and experienced climbers; members can bring a guest free for their first session at the Hangar.
Open Mon-Fri 10am-10pm, weekends 9am-8pmSee…
Exeter (Quay) · Climbing
The South West's largest indoor climbing centre on Exeter Quay, with roped walls and bouldering. It runs beginner inductions and courses, youth programmes and regular social events.
Email the club to ask about classes and membership
Exeter · Martial arts
Teaches traditional collar-and-elbow Devon wrestling, plus the history of the region's fighting arts. Welcomes complete beginners and experienced martial artists.
New here? 'Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced martial artist.'
Wednesdays, 7pm–8:30pm · Saturdays, 9am–10amFree first session for children
Exeter (Riverside Leisure Centre) · Martial arts
Judo club with children's classes and an adult group in Exeter, plus children's judo in Broadclyst.
New here? Spaces available in Exeter; children can try a free session. Adults contact the club.
Mondays, 6pm · Mondays, 7pm and more
Exeter (St Thomas, Heavitree, Beacon Heath) · Martial arts
Taekwon-Do and kickboxing school (PUMA member) with evening classes in St Thomas and Heavitree and Saturday classes at Beacon Heath, for children from 4 and adults.
New here? Classes for all ages and abilities; private, small-group and online classes also offered. Contact the club to start.
Mondays, 7pm–8pm · Tuesdays, 7pm–8pm and moreMonthly: £30 (1 class a week), £55…
Exeter (Beacon Heath) · Boxing & combat fitness
Sport kickboxing and Te-Ashi-Do karate for children from four and adults, with a free first lesson. Opened its own centre at Beacon Heath in 2026 after years in hired halls.
New here? You can try any class for free; 'Taking on new students now'.
No session times published
Exeter (Matford) · Boxing & combat fitness
Long-established amateur boxing club (since 1922) for juniors, seniors and a ladies' section, with no pressure to compete.
New here? For every age and skill level; no pressure to compete unless you want to.
Adult classes seven days a week and ladies-only kickboxing on SundaysFirst session free; no long…
Exeter (St Thomas) · Boxing & combat fitness
A Muay Thai and kickboxing gym near St Thomas with beginner Positive Start classes for adults, ladies-only kickboxing and junior classes. First session is free on any programme.
New here? First session free on any martial arts programme; 'Positive Start' classes teach Muay Thai basics, with several beginner classes each week; gloves can be lent.
Tuesdays, 11am–12pm£5 for the hour
Exeter (Wonford) · Team sports
Tuesday-morning walking football at Wonford Sports Centre run by Exeter City Community Trust, aimed at over-50s. Exeter City Women also have a women's walking football group whose first session is free.
New here? Trust page lists the session for players aged 50 and over (one page says experienced players; another lists it as open booking). Women's walking football: 'the first session is free'.
Saturdays, 1pm–2:30pm
Exeter (Wonford) · Team sports
The UK's oldest wheelchair basketball club, founded in 1980, with a league team, a development team and juniors. Its Saturday open session is for all ages and abilities, and you don't need a disability to play.
New here? Open session every Saturday where 'all ages and abilities are welcome'; no disability required to play.
Wednesdays, 11am–12pm£5 per session, pay as you go
Exeter (Wonford) · Team sports
Mixed walking football session at Wonford for people with Parkinson's or other neurological conditions, open to all ages and abilities with no experience needed.
Fridays, 5pm–7pmTaster sessions and six-week…
Countess Wear · Racket sports
Squash and racketball section with a no-booking Friday evening club session and beginner routes such as a six-week adult course. Welcomes complete beginners to experienced players.
New here? Welcomes players from complete beginners to experienced; 'Get into Racketball' taster sessions and 'Get Into' courses; women-only sessions and leagues.
Tuesdays, 6:30pm · Thursdays, 6:30pmThree free trial sessions, then…
Countess Wear · Racket sports
Coach-led social doubles on Tuesday and Thursday evenings for members of all abilities, with a free trial of three tennis sessions for newcomers. Also coaching, leagues and a three-month tennis and swim trial membership.
New here? 'Everyone is welcome' including beginners; free trial gives three free tennis sessions (limited availability); you can sign up and play the same day.
Mondays, 9am–10am · Mondays, 11am–1pm and more£4 per session, or free for Exeter…
Exeter (Wonford and Riverside) · Racket sports
Social, beginner-friendly and skills sessions of pickleball, a paddle game played on a badminton-sized court, at Exeter's council sports centres. Balls and paddles are provided.
Mondays, 7pm–8pm · Mondays, 8pm–9pm and more£8 for one class, £10 for two on the…
Exeter (city centre) · Social dance
Drop-in salsa classes on Monday evenings at Exeter Phoenix, with a beginners' class, a technique class and an improvers' class. No partner or experience needed.
New here? Drop-in, so you can start any week; no experience needed and your first beginners' class is free.
Ceilidh nights on Friday evenings, roughly monthly (doors 8pm, dancing until 11pm…About £15 to £16.50 per ticket
Pinhoe, Exeter · Social dance
Periodic Friday ceilidh nights at America Hall in Pinhoe with a live band and a caller, no partner or experience needed. Suits groups of friends and first-timers.
New here? Absolute beginners very welcome, no partner necessary, no dress code (18+).
Practice nights not published
Exeter · Social dance
Devon's oldest Morris side (founded 1951), dancing Cotswold style, which has run taster evenings for new dancers of any gender.
New here? 2022 press report: side welcomes new dancers, men and women, with taster evenings; sticks supplied. No 2026 recruitment notice found.
Sundays, 6pm–8pm£15 or £12 booked in advance; two £10…
St Thomas, Exeter · Dance classes
A weekly 5Rhythms movement class on Sunday evenings in St Thomas: free, unchoreographed dancing to music, guided by a teacher. No steps to learn, so it suits complete beginners as well as experienced dancers.
New here? 'A welcoming class for both beginners and experienced dancers'; no dance steps needed. Arrive by 6pm; no entry after 6.20pm.
Thursdays, 6:30pm · Mon and Thu, 7pm–8pm and more£8.50 per class (acro £15)
Exeter (city centre) · Dance classes
City-centre dance studio running weekly adult classes in ballet, tap, contemporary and commercial street dance, many of them drop-in with no monthly membership. Suits beginners and returners as well as experienced dancers.
New here? Many adult sessions are drop-in, booked online; the timetable includes Absolute Beginners Ballet and Adults Beginners Tap. No monthly memberships.
Fridays, 11:15am–12:15pm · Tuesdays, 11am–12pm£6 per session, £10 per couple
Exeter (Mount Pleasant Road; Riverside) · Dance classes
Weekly dance sessions for people with Parkinson's, with partners and carers welcome, at St James Church Hall and Riverside Leisure Centre.
Mondays, 10:15am–11:15am · Mondays, 12pm–1pm and moreAsk the studio for class prices; Yoga…
Exeter (city centre) · Yoga & pilates
City-centre yoga studio above Queen Street with classes most days, from very gentle and holistic hatha to kundalini, yin and led Ashtanga, plus pregnancy yoga and summer classes in the park.
New here? 'No experience is necessary.' Booking required on your first visit, with a short health questionnaire.
Mondays, 10am–11:30amFree
Exeter (Commercial Road, Quay) · Yoga & pilates
Free eight-week yoga course for wellbeing at the X Centre, open to anyone over 18 of any ability or health condition; the current run is under way and earlier runs have happened.
New here? Open to all abilities and health conditions, new and experienced; sign up via BeWell (course 222).
Classes most daysSee…
Exeter (Quayside) · Yoga & pilates
Hot yoga in inflatable pods on the Vulcan Estate, bookable class by class or on a membership. Suits all levels.
Timetable listed as suitable for all levels; passes available without membership.
Mondays, 2:30pm–3:15pm · Wednesdays, 10:30am–11:15am and more£7 per session (one page says £6.50)
Exeter (Countess Wear, Mount Pleasant Road, Whipton) · Fitness
Gentle weekly qigong/tai chi and chair-based exercise groups run by Age UK Exeter in Countess Wear, Mount Pleasant and Whipton, with refreshments.
New here? Moves can be done seated or standing; pay as you go, no commitment.
Contact the gym for class times and a free intro session
Exeter (Marsh Barton) · Fitness
CrossFit affiliate in Exeter offering coached group classes with a free intro for new members.
New here? Site has a 'Free Intro' button and a 'Dropping in' option in the contact form; terms not published.
Tuesdays, 10:15am£7 per session, paid by card or bank…
Haldon Forest Park, Kennford · Fitness
Weekly outdoor circuits class in the forest at Haldon, run by Forestry England with a coach. It suits people who can manage gentle walking; no circuits experience needed.
New here? No booking needed, 'simply turn up'. For people with a basic level of fitness; no previous circuits experience needed.
Events across Devon, including Haldon ForestEvent fees on the club's fees page
East Devon (coaching); events across Devon · 15 miles from Exeter · Outdoor & adventure
County orienteering club running events in forests and heaths across Devon and weekly coaching in East Devon and Torbay. Open to adults and children.
New here? Newcomers always welcome to 'come and try it' at events; someone is on hand to help you start.
Regular trips, an Exeter social evening and weekly Wednesday gatherings are mentionedModest yearly membership, including…
Devon (hut at Buckfastleigh; Exeter social) · 20 miles from Exeter · Outdoor & adventure
Caving club founded in 1947 that welcomes novices and experienced cavers. It has a hut at Buckfastleigh and holds social evenings in Exeter.
New here? Novices and experienced cavers welcome; kit such as helmets, oversuits and lights can usually be borrowed for the first couple of trips.
Meets one Tuesday each month (which Tuesday and start time not published in what could…Free
Exeter (valley parks) · Outdoor & adventure
Devon Wildlife Trust's practical volunteer group for Exeter's valley parks, doing habitat work such as scrub clearance in winter and wildlife surveys in summer. No experience or particular fitness needed.
Weekly swim and run sessions and group ridesTrial membership available
Exeter · Other sport
Friendly triathlon club for adults and juniors in and around Exeter, with weekly swim and run training and member-organised group rides.
New here? New members welcome; a trial membership is offered.
Outdoor season from mid-April to the third week of SeptemberSmall annual membership plus the…
Exeter (St Thomas) · Other sport
Lawn bowls club on the council green at Pinces Gardens in St Thomas, playing friendly and league matches through the summer. Beginners are coached.
New here? 'Beginners and experienced players are welcome'; coaching and advice on dress and etiquette provided. Contact the secretary first.
Season runs April to September
Exeter (St Thomas) · Other sport
Lawn bowls club founded in 1921 at Barton Playing Fields in St Thomas, with friendly matches, men's and ladies' leagues and casual roll-ups for members.
New here? Welcomes men and ladies of all ages; new members welcome, contact the club for more information.
Games afternoons on most Sundays and a monthly Blood on the Clocktower sessionFree; asked to buy food and drink at…
Exeter (city centre) · Social & games
Meetup group playing board games in Exeter pubs on Sunday afternoons, with a monthly Blood on the Clocktower session. Bring a game or join one already being played.
New here? 'Anything's welcome'; Clocktower sessions include a beginner-friendly game led by a Storyteller. White Hart Sundays are 18+.
Tuesdays, 6:45pm · Wednesdays, 1pm and more£3 table money per face-to-face…
Exeter (Newcourt and Victoria Park) · Social & games
Duplicate bridge club for all levels, from newer players to experienced ones, with supervised play for novices, an improvers' practice evening and teaching for beginners and improvers.
New here? Plays 'Duplicate Bridge at all levels'; runs teaching classes for beginners and improvers and supervised duplicate for novices. Visitors welcome (50p extra per session); the club helps find a partner if you ask a day ahead.
Tuesdays, 7:30pm · Tuesdays, 5:30pmMembership £10 (£5 concessions) plus…
Exeter (Heavitree) · Social & games
Weekly Tuesday club night at Heavitree Social Club with a junior section earlier in the evening in term time. Visitors can attend three nights before joining.
Mondays, 12:45pm£10 a week, reduced if paid up front;…
Haldon Forest Park, Kennford · 7 miles from Exeter · Walking & hiking
Instructor-led Nordic fitness walking at Haldon Forest Park in six-week blocks; newcomers start with an induction session.
New here? Complete a Nordic walking induction first (monthly, on a Monday, £10 including poles).
New here? 'If you can swim, then come and talk to us.' Complete beginners and people who haven't dived for years are welcome at the Friday social; try dives run on Tuesday evenings (book in advance).
Own website returned 401 so session times could not be read
Exeter (Haven Road) · Watersports
Canoe England affiliated club on the Exeter quayside covering most kinds of canoeing and kayaking. It describes beginner and experienced paddlers as welcome.
New here? Listed as welcoming experienced and beginner paddlers; check the club for taster and induction arrangements.
Learn-to-row courses run in blocks (an autumn course was due to start on a Wednesday in…Four-week taster course £40, then…
Exeter (Haven Road) · Watersports
Rowing club on the Exeter Ship Canal and River Exe. Adults new to the sport start with a four-week Introduction to Rowing course, with coaching in small boats.
New here? No previous experience needed. Adult taster course of four weeks (£40), two sessions a week from Wed 18:30, Sat 11:00 or 13:30, Sun 11:00 or 13:30; juniors 12-16 get 2 free trial sessions. Spaces limited; British Rowing membership number needed to join.
Trains on Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, with volunteer patrols on summer…
Exmouth · 11 miles from Exeter · Watersports
A volunteer surf life saving club on Exmouth beach training lifeguards and running summer beach patrols. New adult members are welcome with no previous experience; juniors join via a waiting list.
New here? New senior members welcome, no previous experience needed; adults can visit the beach to see the club or get in touch. Juniors (Nippers 7 to 12, Graduate Lifeguards 13+) via a waiting list form.
Regular rows at weekends and in evenings (light permitting)
Exmouth · 11 miles from Exeter · Watersports
Cornish pilot gig rowing off Exmouth beach, open to all ages with no experience needed. New rowers do about three intro sessions before deciding to join.
New here? Intro sessions for complete beginners, open to all ages; first session includes launching the boat, a briefing and a 45-minute row; up to two further sessions before joining. Run on safe, slack tides only.
Sundays, 10am–12pm · Tuesdays, 6pm and moreTwo free trial rows; then a pro rata…
Exmouth · 10 miles from Exeter · Watersports
Friendly community rowing club on Exmouth seafront, rowing stable coastal boats on the estuary and at sea, recreationally or in regattas. It suits adults of any age with no experience.
New here? Two free trial rows during Sunday club sessions before joining; new starter inductions roughly once a month, with an indoor rowing machine lesson then a trial row in a quad with a 'buddy'.
Sailing and racing programme April to September, tide dependent (roughly two hours…Adult £70 a year, joint adult £95,…
Lympstone · 9 miles from Exeter · Watersports
Family-friendly sailing club on the Exe estuary at Lympstone with dinghy, day boat and cruiser racing from April to September, RYA training for members and a busy social calendar.
New here? Describes itself as 'family friendly and great for meeting new people'; members help with training, race and safety boat duties, which 'makes it easy for new members to meet people'. RYA training courses are for members.
Racing on Sundays and other programmed days, tide dependentSubscriptions on the club's price…
Starcross · 9 miles from Exeter · Watersports
A dinghy, catamaran and yacht club on the west bank of the Exe estuary with year-round racing, training for members and a junior section. Membership has no waiting list.
New here? Visit on a Sunday race day or contact the Membership Secretary to be shown around. Applications online, approved within about 14 days; no waiting list for membership. Temporary winter membership (1 Oct to 30 Mar) for members of other RYA clubs.
Racing is mostly at weekends for dinghies, with weekday evening racing for cruisers and…Membership fees on the club's…
Topsham · Watersports
A friendly sailing club on the Exe estuary running dinghy, yawl and cruiser racing plus a social calendar. It welcomes new members who simply want to sail.
New here? Welcomes new members; 'all that is needed is enthusiasm for sailing'. Prospective members can visit on race nights or events to meet the Membership Secretary.
New here? Runs a full programme of beginner courses: Auto Belay/Bouldering Intro (1 hour, ages 7+), Belaying and Roped Climbing Inductions (two 1-hour sessions, 18+), Mastering Climbing Movement (four 2-hour sessions, 18+).
Open daily, with kids' Rock Club sessions, a teen social at weekends, and Hangar Women…Pay as you go adults £16, concessions…
Exeter (Marsh Barton) · Climbing
Large indoor bouldering and climbing centre at Marsh Barton with pay-as-you-go entry, a short beginner bouldering intro, kids' Rock Clubs and themed sessions such as Hangar Women Rock and Pride Night.
New here? First-timers complete an online waiver with induction video; optional 30-minute Intro to Bouldering for £5 extra; shoe hire free.
Beginners', women's and children's classes through the weekPay as you go and monthly…
Exeter (Marsh Barton) · Martial arts
A Brazilian jiu-jitsu academy in Marsh Barton teaching gi and no-gi BJJ and wrestling, with beginner, women's and children's classes. Pay as you go and monthly options are listed.
New here? Dedicated beginners', women's and children's classes. Book ahead, as places are limited.
Thursdays, 7pm · Tuesdays, 5pm
Exeter (city centre) · Martial arts
Historical European martial arts club teaching longsword, with wrestling and medieval dagger classes. Runs periodic beginner sessions that book up quickly.
New here? Beginners longsword sessions run through the year (the January 2026 one was fully booked; more planned).
Mondays, 6:15pm–7:15pm · Mondays, 7:15pm–8:15pm and moreMonthly membership; free taster class
Exeter (St David's) · Martial arts
A multi-discipline school teaching Brazilian jiu-jitsu, traditional jiu jitsu, kickboxing, kenjutsu and tai chi, with children's and women's classes. No experience needed, and every discipline has a free taster.
New here? No experience is needed for any class; free taster class available for every discipline; flexible monthly membership with no long-term contract.
Wednesdays, 6pm–7pm · Wednesdays, 7pm–8:30pmFirst lesson free
Exeter (Wonford) · Martial arts
Exeter School of Taekwon-Do, running since 1992, teaches Taekwon-Do to children, juniors and adults on Wednesday evenings at Wonford Sports Centre.
New here? Free trial lesson; book through the club's timetable page.
Five-week beginners' sabre courses on Thursday evenings at Alphington Village Hall£65 for the five-week beginners…
Exeter (Alphington) · Martial arts
British Fencing affiliated community club with group and one-to-one lessons, plus five-week Sabre for Beginners courses with kit loan. Includes work towards seated fencing.
New here? Beginner courses of five sessions for ages 13+; sold out, join the waiting list for the next course.
Directory hours: Mon-Thu 16:30-20:30, Fri 17:00-20:30, Sat 09:00-14:00
Exeter (city centre) · Martial arts
Brazilian jiu-jitsu school in the city centre with group classes, private lessons, seminars and a kids programme for ages 4 to 15.
New here? Friendly, community-focused (directory description); not confirmed by the academy.
Days and times not found
Exeter (Whipton) · Martial arts
Children's taekwondo club for ages four and up at Whipton Community Hall, run by a 5th Dan instructor and founded in 2022.
New here? Ages 4 and up; listing warns details may be outdated.
Thursdays, 7pm–8:30pmTrial class bookable online
Exeter (Whipton) · Martial arts
Krav Maga self-defence training for adults at Whipton Barton on Thursday evenings, with trial classes bookable online. Novices are welcome.
New here? 'Novices are most welcome'; trial class bookable online; new members always welcome in Exeter.
Weekday and weekend sessions across Exeter and South DevonFree trial; fees not published
Exeter and South Devon · Martial arts
Newton Abbot based school running Taekwondo classes across Exeter and South Devon for ages three to adult, with a free trial.
New here? 'You can try Taekwondo for free with no cost and no obligation'; two weeks free offered.
Group MMA, self-defence and women's classes at St Matthew's Church Hall and LED…Monthly direct debit: £39, £49 or £64…
Exeter (Newtown) and Broadclyst · Martial arts
MMA and self-defence academy (formerly Exeter Self-Defence Academy) with classes for children, teens, adults and families, plus women's combat fitness and kickboxing.
New here? Free trial class, booked online through the club's timetable.
Gym open roughly 10:00-21:00 weekdays and 10:00-13:00 weekends (directory)
Exeter (Marsh Barton) · Boxing & combat fitness
Mixed martial arts gym at Budlake Road, Marsh Barton, with guided classes and an active amateur section.
New here? Listing says 'ideal if you want to learn Mixed Martial Arts the correct way'; reviewers mention first sessions as newcomers.
New here? Mixed session for men and women of all ages and abilities, no experience necessary.
Saturdays, 9:30am–10:30am
Exeter · Team sports
Slower, non-contact rugby run by Exeter Saracens RFC. Aimed at over-55s but open to any adult, including people coming back from injury or illness; no rugby experience needed.
New here? Aimed at over-55s but open to anyone over 18 of any gender; previous rugby experience isn't required.
Sundays, 7pm–8pm£3 per session
Exeter (city centre) · Team sports
Walking basketball with no running and no physical contact, for adults of all abilities, at Exeter College's sports hall.
New here? Adults aged 18+ of all abilities.
Wednesdays, 11am–12pm · Wednesdays, 7pm–8pm and more£4 an hour (£5 for the Tuesday Exeter…
Exeter (Wonford) · Team sports
Walking football for men over 50 and women over 40, with weekly sessions at Wonford, Countess Wear and Exeter City's Cliff Hill training ground.
New here? Email to come along and try a session; membership £20 a year.
Community Touch runs every Monday night (start time and venue are given on Spond, not…£4.50 per session; no membership;…
Exeter · Team sports
Touch rugby club with a Monday-night Community Touch session open to anyone 18 or over; the rules are taught on the day and most players start as beginners. Pre-booked through the Spond app.
New here? Open to anyone aged 18 or over whatever their experience or fitness; most players have never played; first session free if you message the club on Spond.
Wednesdays, 8:30pmFirst session free; ask the club for…
Exeter (St Thomas) · Team sports
Exeter's LGBTQ+ football team, run with Exeter City Community Trust. It trains once a week and the first session is free.
New here? First session free.
Weekly training for every team on weekday evenings, at the University pitches and…Adult player £440 a year (includes…
Exeter (University and Exeter School) · Team sports
Large Exeter hockey club with seven men's and four women's league teams, masters and juniors from under-8s. Adults who can't commit to matches can join on a training-only membership.
New here? The club 'caters for all ages and abilities'; new players apply through the Join Us form, and an Adult (Training) membership is for players who want to train without playing league matches.
Mondays, 7pm–8pm · Tuesdays, 7pm–8pm and more£6 per person, pay as you go
Exeter (Summer Lane / Riverside) · Team sports
Pay-as-you-go social netball in Exeter: ladies' Back to Netball sessions for newcomers and returners, plus a mixed session with a beginners hour. Suits adults of any ability who want a game without joining a league.
New here? Ladies sessions are for people trying netball for the first time, returning after a break, or wanting a no-commitment social game; mixed session has a social/beginners hour. Some posts mention a free first session.
Fridays, 1:30pm–3pmVoluntary donation
Clyst St Mary · Team sports
Gentle walking netball for people with Parkinson's, led by an England Netball coach in Clyst St Mary village hall; no experience needed.
New here? No experience necessary.
New here? Sunday afternoon social is 'ideal for beginners' and the Wednesday 10.30am social welcomes beginners; a taster session runs on Monday mornings (contact the club first). The centres lend balls and paddles free.
Sundays, 12:30pm–1:30pmFree
Exeter (Exwick) · Racket sports
Free walking tennis, played without running, on the public courts in Exwick for adults of all abilities.
New here? Adults aged 18+ of all abilities.
Social Mix-Ins, open to all abilities, run on different eveningsSocial Mix-In about £15 per…
Exeter (Haven Banks) · Racket sports
Nine indoor padel courts and two pickleball courts at Haven Banks, opened in September 2026. Runs 'Social Mix-In' sessions where players are matched with different partners, so no group is needed.
New here? Mixed Social Mix-In listed as open to all abilities; coaching available.
Social sessions reported on Tuesday and Thursday evenings and Saturday afternoons, plus…
Exeter · Racket sports
Tennis centre running doubles social sessions for adults of all abilities and Sunday-morning group sessions for beginners, improvers and intermediates. New members are encouraged to try a social session first.
New here? Adult social doubles for all abilities; new members encouraged to attend first to get a feel for the club; Sunday sessions for beginners, improvers and intermediates.
A Wednesday 7pm meet-and-greet was listed for 23 September 2026Meet-and-greet free; class fee not…
Whipton, Exeter · Social dance
A line dancing group starting at Whipton Community Hall, with a free meet-the-instructor evening for anyone curious. Regular class times were not published.
New here? Free informal sign-up and meet-and-greet evening to meet the instructor and ask questions.
Tuesdays, 8pm–11pm1 class + social £8; 2 classes +…
Exeter (city centre) · Social dance
Weekly Tuesday evening salsa and bachata beginner classes followed by a social dance at Southernhay Church Hall. Suitable for beginners and people coming alone.
New here? Beginner classes every week.
Mondays, 7:45pm · Thursdays, 7:45pmFree taster sessions
Exeter (Exwick) · Social dance
Scottish country dancing classes on Monday and Thursday evenings at Exwick Parish Hall, with regular social dances to live music. A new beginners' course started this autumn after free taster sessions.
New here? 'Beginners are welcome'; new beginners' course in autumn 2026 with free tasters on 17 and 24 September; all ages welcome.
Mondays, 6:30pm · Mondays, 8pmBlock of 4 classes £30 (£26…
Exeter (city centre) · Social dance
Volunteer-run swing dance group teaching Lindy Hop and Charleston in central Exeter, with a Thursday jam and Wednesday class. No partner needed; partners rotate and complete beginners start in Level 1.
New here? Level One classes suit complete beginners; no partner needed; new beginners can start on week 1 of any four-week block.
Mondays, 6:30pm–7:15pm · Mondays, 7:15pm–8pm and moreLessons £3 for one or £5 for two…
Exeter (University) · Social dance
Weekly ballroom and Latin lessons from beginner to intermediate, run through the Students' Guild. Weekly lessons are open to non-members and non-students aged 18 and over.
New here? Weekly lessons are open to 'members, non-members and non-students (18+)'; classes start Monday 21 September with beginner tasters in fresher's week.
Mondays, 6pm–7pm · Wednesdays, 7pm–8pm and moreAssociate membership £15, which…
Exeter (University campus) · Social dance
Weekly salsa, bachata and rueda classes at the University of Exeter, taught by named teachers at several levels. Classes are open to students, staff and members of the public, including complete beginners.
New here? Classes are for 'students, staff and members of the public'; Salsa Fundamentals and Beginners Bachata classes are for newcomers.
New here? No advance booking required; the listing suggests contacting the instructor first to confirm dates.
Tuesdays, 6:30pm–7:30pm · Tuesdays, 7:30pm£8 per class; discounted monthly pass…
Exeter (city centre) · Dance classes
Adult ballet for beginners and an open-level contemporary class on Tuesday evenings at DanSci Dance Studio in central Exeter.
New here? Beginner ballet class; contemporary is open level.
Fortnightly on Fridays, 6pm–8pm£10 for a 1-hour class; £18 for the…
Exeter (city centre) · Dance classes
Belly dance classes for all levels at DanSci in central Exeter, fortnightly on Friday evenings, with a one-hour class or a two-hour technique and choreography session.
New here? Listed as all levels.
Tuesdays, 6:30pm–8pm · Wednesdays, 6:15pm–7:15pm and more£6 to £7 per session (sources differ)
Exeter (city centre) · Dance classes
Weekly adult jazz dance classes in Exeter, including a beginners and improvers class for those new or rusty, plus a low-impact fitness class. Join at any time and pay weekly.
New here? Adult classes are ongoing so you can join at any time; the Thursday class is for beginners, improvers or those feeling rusty.
Sundays, 9:30am–10:30amFree
Exeter (St Thomas) · Yoga & pilates
Free community yoga in the open air at Cowick Barton Playing Fields, run by a national charity on summer Sunday mornings. Bring a mat or towel.
New here? Open to everyone regardless of age, background or ability; no booking needed.
Classes run early mornings, lunchtimes and eveningsIntro £60 for 6 classes
Exeter (The Depot, Cheeke Street) · Yoga & pilates
Studio running 40-minute reformer Pilates classes from early morning to evening, with an intro offer for new clients.
New here? New-client intro: 6 classes for £60, starting with an orientation workout; casual single classes reported with no lock-in contract.
Wednesdays, 9:45am · Wednesdays, 7pm
Exeter (Heavitree) · Yoga & pilates
Taoist tai chi classes in Heavitree, with an introductory class on Wednesday mornings. Newcomers can join at any time.
New here? Beginners can join at any time; introductory sessions have their own registration form.
Mon and Wed, 6:30pm · Tuesdays, 6:30pm and moreFree (page mentions no cost)
Exeter (St Thomas, Newtown, Heavitree, Pinhoe) · Fitness
Free, volunteer-led circuit-style fitness sessions in Exeter parks, open to anyone who registers and books a slot in the weekly newsletter.
New here? Open to anyone who completes the registration form; not for people who are injured or have serious health conditions.
Beginner classes run through the week
Exeter (Marsh Barton) · Fitness
Aerial silks, hoop and pole studio at Marsh Barton with beginner classes and intro courses; no prior experience needed.
New here? Aerial classes for all abilities, no prior experience needed; Intro to Aerial course.
Mondays, 6pm–7pm · Mondays, 7:05pm–8:05pm and more£12 per 60-minute class; packs of…
Exeter (city centre) · Fitness
Pole fitness studio at Exeter Phoenix with beginner, intermediate and advanced pole classes, pole flow, floorwork and heels choreography on weekday evenings. Pay as you go, with free taster sessions.
New here? Complete beginners can join a taster session (held every four weeks) or book straight onto a regular beginners' class; all classes pay as you go. 16+ (under-18s need adult consent).
New here? No previous experience or particular fitness needed; register as a DWT volunteer first.
Lessons and hacks are booked with the office (9am–5pm)
Exeter (Balls Farm Road, near Alphington) · Outdoor & adventure
Family-run BHS approved riding school on the edge of Exeter with about 50 horses, offering private, shared and group lessons and hacks for complete beginners through to experienced riders, adults and children.
New here? Lessons for all ages and abilities; new riders are advised to start with a private lesson so the school can place them in the right group. Hacking for complete beginners upwards.
Dozens of sessions a week (sea swims and dips, swim and sauna, jeffing, 5–10k runs…£5 a month after a free 30-day trial
Exmouth · 10 miles from Exeter · Outdoor & adventure
Non-judgemental community fitness group in Exmouth with volunteer-led sea swims and dips, runs, walks, bike rides and occasional mountain biking. It welcomes any fitness level, age or experience.
New here? Welcomes people of any fitness level, background, experience or age; free 30-day trial, cancel any time.
New here? 'Visitors and new members are always welcome'; non-members can attend three club nights as guests.