Discovering Exeter: The Flex Office Scene
You know that feeling when you’re always passing through a place, never really stopping to see what it’s about? That was Exeter for me. With family down in Cornwall and friends scattered across Devon, it’s been the gateway to countless holidays. Exeter for me was always a signpost on the A303 or a helpful services on the M5. Recently, I decided to change that, to actually explore this vibrant city. And …I’m kicking myself for not doing it sooner. A stunning cathedral city, and surprisingly, a real hotspot for flexible office spaces, supporting the South West’s booming economy.
If you’re wondered what lies beyond the motorway exits, let’s dive into Exeter’s flex office scene first off lets head to the city centre.
City Centre:
A compact, walkable city, where independent retailers and Princesshay’s shops blend seamlessly with the historic cathedral and all very walkable and accessible from the train station. It’s a bustling hub with students, tourists and from attracting everyone from startups to established businesses, they all finding their home in a variety of flex offices.
The city centre’s all about character, ambience and amenities on the doorstep here are my personal picks.
Clockwise: If you’re after a premium workspace, this is it. This is spot on, stylish and professional, perfect for making a good impression.
Exeter Business Hub: This place has a real community feel, catering to solo traders and small teams. It’s friendly, supportive, and a great asset to the city.
Generator Hub: Exeter’s original and independent coworking space.
Forward Space: I’m really excited about. They are a strong south west provider with first location in Exeter The boathouse opening in Summer 2025.
Regus (Longbrook House): The fact that IWG are still expanding in Exeter speaks volumes, they are a barometer for me and shows the demand for flexible solutions is real. They have 4 sites including Basepoint and this one in the pipeline to make it 5.
Beyond the City Centre
Venturing out of the city centre there are many a flex option and connectivity and car parking are two things they all have in common. Exeter Business Park, just off the M5, is a prime example. The Met Office’s presence here back in 2003 put it on the map, and Regus has capitalised on this location’s well connected appeal. As a geography student I did some work experience for the Met Office once .. I digress.
Then, you’ve got Pynes Hill Business Centre, a solid mainstream option, and further out, towards Junction 31 and Marsh Barton Estate, IWG’s Basepoint and HQ, plus the independent Alphinbrook Business Centre.
Exeter Science Park has done their own flex spaces and focusing as expected to start ups and innovation in the varies with customers. They have worked hard to not just have a great location but create a strong community on the park.
The Future of Exeter’s Office Market:
The traditional agents are being quite frank about Exeter, the city centre office market is a challenge and this is due to limited city centre stock. On the plus side this is driving landlords to upgrade and refurbish, with ESG being a top priority for tenants.
And Exeter’s growing. With a population of 127,500 (ONS), the council are promoting the development of major brownfield sites like Marsh Barton and Water Lane for mixed use and residential. In addition, the out of town offer includes grand Winslade Park, Skypark, near the airport, is a testament to the city’s ambition.
I am glad I stopped by. With its diverse range of flex office solutions, 4 IWG (International Workplace Group) products, strong out-of-town connectivity, and a city centre boasting quality amenities, this city stands as an excellent flex option.
About the Author
Hilary leads research at Spaces to Places and brings over 20 years of property expertise. Specialising in analysing property, location, and office data, she uncovers insights to improve location strategy and customer experience. With experience at Sainsbury’s and JLL, Hilary has worked across Europe and Australia.
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