Exeter city centre has been awarded Purple Flag accreditation, a nationally-recognised mark that celebrates towns and cities which offer a safe, well-managed and vibrant evening and night-time economy.
The Purple Flag award recognises places where people can enjoy a night out with confidence - supported by strong partnership working, a diverse offer, good transport connections and a clear focus on safety and wellbeing.
The accreditation follows a comprehensive external assessment from Association of Town and City Management (ATCM).
The process of application was led by InExeter, Exeter’s Business Improvement District, working in partnership with Devon and Cornwall Police, Exeter City Council, Exeter College, University of Exeter, transport providers, cultural venues and local businesses. ATCM commended Exeter's inaugural Purple Flag application for its diverse night-time economy, strong partnerships, and prioritised safety agenda.
“We’re absolutely delighted that Exeter has been awarded the prestigious Purple Flag accreditation,” says Nicola Wheeler, CEO at InExeter. She adds, “This achievement highlights Exeter as an exceptional city for a night out Our businesses and partners are committed to ensuring the wellbeing of all who come to enjoy the evening atmosphere. Exeter offers an outstanding and vibrant night-time experience for people of all ages, with an ever-growing programme of diverse events and activities.”
Purple Flag status reflects Exeter’s coordinated approach to managing the city after dark, underpinned by visible policing, expanded CCTV coverage, late-night transport options and a growing programme of cultural, community and family-friendly activity.
Cllr Laura Wright, Exeter City Council's Deputy Leader and Lead Councillor for Community Safety and City Centre, said of CCTV improvements in the city centre: “Our investment in CCTV has significantly strengthened safety in Exeter. Extensive high definition coverage and 24/7 monitoring from the city’s control room provide real reassurance for people enjoying the evening and night-time economy, while supporting rapid partnership responses when it matters most.”
Exeter’s night-time offer extends well beyond traditional drinking-led activity, with theatres, museums, live music venues, restaurants, events and public spaces all contributing to a more inclusive and balanced evening economy.
Patrick Cunningham, Director at Exeter Phoenix said: “Exeter is the cultural heartbeat of the South West, a city where creativity thrives after dark. From live music and comedy to independent film and immersive arts experiences, our programming offers something truly unique. What sets Exeter apart is the rich mix of independent venues that create nights out you simply won’t find anywhere else. This diversity makes Exeter not just a destination, but a community of culture.”
Purple Flag accreditation reflects the collective effort of organisations across the city, including businesses, cultural institutions, transport operators, universities, community groups and public services working together towards a shared ambition.
Exeter will continue to invest in safety, communications, transport and partnership working to strengthen its reputation as a safe, vibrant and welcoming city after dark.
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