9th May 2026

Full Guide

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March

Gardens

What's On

Transport

Maps

Accessibility

Programme

Welcome!

Exeter Pride is the largest free pride event in the Southwest ensuring all can come and join in our protest and celebration. Exeter Pride started 18 years ago and we are very proud of all of the hard work of the committee, trustees and volunteers over the years to ensure Exeter Pride continues to serve its community. Exeter Pride started as a protest and we ensure that Exeter Pride sticks to these routes.

What do we have in store for you this year then I hear you ask!? Well, we have doubled our march route for 2026 so make sure you have your marching shoes on. Its set to be a big one and we can’t wait to bring our fabulous march full of noise, colour and glitter to even more streets in the city. Get your witty signs, whistles and clack fans out and see you in the march.

We also have two stages in Northernhay Gardens this year with a diverse line up of talent from our local community. We’ve grown the marketplace this year with more goodies to explore, food to try and a fully licenced far to have a drink in the sun. We are also really excited for our Youth and Family space this year in Rougemont and The Library with a jam-packed line up of workshops, drop ins and entrainment for all ages. And yes, of course we are bringing back the dog show this year! Bring your pooches along to Rougemont to win some prizes!

We also have a full schedule of workshops going on in the Phoenix and also in the RAMM so be sure to check that out on our website where you can find all information about pride day.

Now of course none of this would be possible without the backing of our amazing partners, sponsors and donors. In a very challenging financial and also political climate and with many other local prides not being able to run we are very grateful for all the support that we receive to enables us to do the work we do. Thank you so much.

And one final shout out, to the committee, thank you for putting up with me and all the random ideas and brain farts, but most importantly thank you for all the hours and hours of work you put in all year round to ensure that Exeter Pride continues to serve its community. This would not happen without every single one of you, you are amazing and I love you all.

I hope you all have an amazing Exeter Pride, stay hydrated, put the sun cream on and see you at the Official After Party, Climax with Cleo at Exeter Phoenix!

Russell, Exeter Pride Chair

PRIDE IS A PROTEST!

Our Pride march through the streets of Exeter returns this year with exciting changes - a brand new walking route!

Last year we were overflowing with organisations, businesses, and attendees, so this year we made the decision to extend the march further down Fore Street, allowing us to reach even more members of our fabulous community!

If you’re planning to join us for the march, please familiarise yourself with the new route and all of the information provided below.

Anyone!
It’s free for individuals, self-funded community groups and organisations to take part in our march, but you must book in advance. Individuals can sign up to Carry our Flags here.
Large organisations and businesses can only join as part of a sponsorship package or other donations (now closed).
For everyone else, you can join the back of the March after it has passed by.
The march starts on Sidwell Street just outside of the St Sidwell’s Community Centre and will proceed down Sidwell Street, Hight Street, Fore Street, turn onto Bartholomew Street West and East and then proceed up Paul Street and finish at Northernhay Gardens.
If you’re part of a group, please have one representative register with the Exeter Pride team, and ask the rest of your group to congregate in your allocated March Section.
Individuals (members of the public) must wait to join behind all of the groups and organisations, please note that this may involve waiting for long periods so come prepared with water, appropriate clothing and sun protection.
If you’re joining the march, please arrive at the starting point at your pre-allocated time and by 11:30am at the latest. The march will start at 12pm.
We estimate the marching route to take around an hour to walk, but we cannot confirm an ending time.
This year, as the route has been extended.
Fore Street slopes steeply down, and the return journey to Northernhay Gardens has a steep section up North Street, and the overall route will now be 1.86 kilometres compared to our previous 0.8km route. We’ve marked out the steepest sections on the map.
Our previous route through Queen Street has become the accessible path for those with mobility limitations or anyone who may wish to enjoy a shorter route.
We know that Exeter is not the most accessible city due to its topography!
So we are pleased to be able to provide an 'Accessibility Bus' which will be able to transport those with additional needs along the march route.
The bus will be accessible at ground level, includes spaces for wheelchairs and seats, and is open to anyone who needs it.
We ask anyone wanting to use the bus on the day to sign up through our form here in advance of the March so that we can provide you with relevant information. You can show up on the day, but we cannot guarantee a space.
Any Under 18s wanting to use the Accessibility Bus must be accompanied by a Parent or Guardian.
For any questions about accessibility please contact accessibility@exeterpride.co.uk
Plan for the weather - we hope that we will have some great weather for Pride! Best to make sure that you check the forecast and plan accordingly - remember your suncream and water to keep hydrated if it's hot and something to cover up in if it (unfortunately) rains.
Wear clothing and footwear in which you are comfortable, and you know you can manage to walk the March route in successfully.
The March takes place in public, and you should ensure that you do not block or otherwise impede the general public on the pavements along the route.
The Albert Kennedy Trust has safety advice for people attending Pride or other LGBTQ+ events here.
Please note that photography and videography will take place throughout the March. If you do not wish to be included, then please speak with our official photographers who are identifiable with a lanyard.

Maps

Scroll through our various maps below; we don’t want you getting lost!

Gardens

Come and join us at Northernhay and Rougemont Gardens for the very best LGBTQ+ entertainment!

Just a few steps from Exeter Central Train Station are the grand gates of Northernhay Gardens, where you’ll find our main hub of activities. Now, thanks to the City Council’s hard work, you can easily hop across to the adjoining Rougemont Gardens and hub for our youth-orientated, family-friendly activities.

There is so much to see and do so make sure to have a good wonder and explore!

TWO STAGES OF ALL DAY ENTERTAINMENT

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TWO STAGES OF ALL DAY ENTERTAINMENT 〰️

As the march concludes at the Northernhay Gardens gates and the crowds of attendees get settled, the main stage in the centre will kick off with a fabulously diverse line-up of local performers to keep you dancing and singing from 1-6pm.

The second stage starts a bit later at 2pm and goes onto 4:40pm. Entertainment and traders ends in the Gardens at 6pm which gives you plenty of time for a quick costume change and freshen up before the after party at 9pm at the Phoenix!

Merch & Marketplace

In the centre of Northernhay and beside the grand monument, you’ll find our Official Information and Merchandise stall equipped with our programmes and as much Pride merch as you need! We’ve got you covered!

As you venture further into the Gardens, over 50 traders and organisations give you so much to explore. Pick up some great local products, grab an ice cream, chat to the community, or have a picnic with freshly made pizza.

We’re bringing back our rubber matting to even out some of the surfaces in the marketplace to make it as accessible as possible.

Food & Drink

There are loads of food vendors up in Northernhay Gardens this year, including pizza, BBQ, curries, loaded fries, meatballs, slushies and ice creams, so there is something for everyone.

Remember to stay hydrated and make use of our free drinking water fountain, but remember to bring a reusable bottle…we’re all about saving the turtles!

To the Bar!

After last year’s success, our fully licensed bar returns to Northernhay Gardens for all your beverage needs. While you’re welcome to lay out a picnic blanket on the grass, you’ll also find many large seating areas where you can relax and relish your Pimms in the sun!

What’s On

Get your day planned out with our full schedules for the Northerhay Stages, Rougemont Shows, and activities at our partnering venues, the Phoenix, Library and RAMM.

Transport

Each mode of transport has its own set of considerations, so choose the one that best suits your needs and ensures a safe journey to Pride!

🚘 By car

Travelling by car offers flexibility and convenience, allowing you to set your own schedule and make stops as needed. However, it's essential to plan your route in advance, check for traffic updates, and ensure your vehicle is in good condition. As with any event, there may be road closures or rerouting in places to avoid high-traffic areas. Car parks will be particularly busy, so if you want to plan ahead, we recommend using Parkopedia.

🚌 By bus

Travelling by bus is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option, and the city features many easy-to-navigate designated bus routes. It's important to arrive at the bus station early, keep your belongings secure, and be aware of which stop you need to get off at.

There are many buses that will take you to the city centre, and the bus station is a short 10-minute walk from Northernhay Gardens and the start of the march.

Please note that due to the march, the bus stops that run through the high street will be closed between 11:00am - 2:00pm.

🚆 By train

Lastly, travelling by train can be a comfortable and efficient choice, especially for longer distances. Make sure to book your tickets in advance, check the train schedules at GWR.com, and be mindful of your luggage and personal items.

Exeter Central is the nearest train station and only a few minutes' walk from Northernhay Gardens and Exeter Phoenix, and a ten-minute walk from where the march will begin. Another nearby train station is Exeter St Davids, which is a slightly longer walk (approx. 15 minutes) uphill to the city centre.

This year, Exeter Pride is grateful to be officially partnered with GWR, whose mission is to provide safe and reliable train travel across the southwest. Their support not only helps us bring people together to celebrate Pride events but also demonstrates their commitment to the LGBTQ+ community. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to GWR for their invaluable support!

Accessibility

We want everyone coming along to Exeter Pride 2026 to have a safe and enjoyable day! That is why we are seeking to make Exeter Pride 2026 the most inclusive and accessible event we can!

With the help of our Accessibility Working Group, we’ve been working hard to make some changes to support access and inclusion. If you have any questions, please contact accessibility@exeterpride.co.uk.

BSL Support

We’re pleased to offer BSL interpreters at both our Main and Second Stage. Just look for the interpreter sign! We are also offering BSL support for anyone attending workshops or discussion groups.

You can also book on the day at the Info Desk in the lobby at Exeter Phoenix.

Please note these are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and we advise booking beforehand using this form to ensure you have the support you need.

Disability and Neurodivergent Related Events

Northernhay Gardens

3:35 - 3:45pm:
Deaf Academy Performance
Main Stage

Exeter Phoenix

1:30 – 2:30pm:
BSL Workshop with the Deaf Academy
Meeting Room

2:45 - 3:45pm:
Disability and Gender discussion
Auditorium

1:30 - 5:00pm:
Take Pride in Your Mobility Aid:
Drop-in Workshop to decorate your mobility Aids
Auditorium

Quiet Workshops & Spaces

We recognise that for people with sensory issues, social anxiety and/or who are neurodivergent, some of Exeter Pride can be uncomfortable and overwhelming!

We are introducing an Accessibility and Sensory tent near the Northernhay Place entrance, where it’s quieter, with comfortable seats, sensory calming lights, and a place to charge your mobility aids.

But we have lots of places you can go to escape the hubbub, such as our skills share drop-in session in the Phoenix, where you can learn a new craft like knitting, sewing, or badge-making, or our Literature Lounge in the Library, with quiet spots to sit and read or write.

Disabled Toilets With Hoist

There are disabled toilets in all areas of use during Pride.

The only toilet with a hoist and changing table is the Changing Places toilet in Princesshay, roughly a ten-minute walk from Northernhay Gardens, Exeter Phoenix, and the start of the march.

More details can be found here.