5 fun things to do this weekend in Exeter

Looking ahead to the weekend? There’s something for everyone, whether you’re seeking culture, comedy, live wrestling, or the latest films on the big screen. Here's what's on in Exeter - enjoy!

1. EXHIBITION

31 January – 1 February

NOT A PRETTY LANDSCAPE

This first-of-its-kind group pop-up exhibition aims to shake up the South West’s long-standing love affair with picturesque seascapes and rural idylls. Not a Pretty Landscape brings together a compelling mix of works, challenging expectations and offering a fresh perspective on contemporary art in the region.

The exhibition features 15 artists, including highly regarded portrait painters alongside exciting emerging voices from across the South West. Curator Claire Le Day says it’s time for a change.

"The West Country is more than picturesque estuaries and rolling hills," says Le Day. "This exhibition creates space for work that doesn’t fit the expected mould. It’s art for all- art that challenges, surprises, and reflects the diverse creative voices living and working here today."

Original works will be available alongside prints and cards for smaller budgets. The exhibition takes place at Kaleider Studios, 45 Preston Street, Exeter. Entry is free. 10am–3pm.

Head to @claireleday85 on Instagram for more. 

2. FAMILY

31 January – 26 April 

WOW! AMAZING SCIENCE IN CHILDREN’S BOOKS

This family-friendly exhibition at RAMM brings together vibrant artwork and surprising facts to explore the wonders of the world.

Discover how extraordinary scientists such as Galileo, Leonardo da Vinci, Ada Lovelace, and Wangari Maathai made ground-breaking discoveries that revolutionised our understanding of the world. The gallery is divided into six sections:

• Introduction: The History of Science
• The Solar System and Our Place Within It
• The World Around Us
• What Are We Made Of and What Do We Eat?
• Machines and Mechanics
• Futures Imagined

The exhibition will also feature a programme of Easter holiday events designed to delight and inspire young minds.

3. WRESTLING

1 February

SWW – LIVE PROFESSIONAL WRESTLING: UNFINISHED BUSINESS

See the stars of the squared circle as South West Wrestling takes over Exeter Corn Exchange for the first time! Expect chaos, carnage, and plenty of surprises alongside your local favourites.

Doors open at 4pm, with the show starting at 5pm.

4. COMEDY

1 February

TOM ROSENTHAL

Star of Friday Night Dinner (C4) and Plebs (ITV), Tom Rosenthal returns to stand-up with his much-anticipated show following his critically acclaimed 2019 tour, Manhood. His 2026 UK and Ireland tour, Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I Am, features jokes on topics like Wimbledon, Daniel Radcliffe, and Nepo Babies, showcasing Rosenthal’s sharp observational humour. Show starts at 8pm at Exeter Phoenix.

5. FILM

Now – 5 February

H IS FOR HAWK

After the sudden death of her father (Brendan Gleeson), Helen (Claire Foy) turns to the ancient art of falconry, training a wild goshawk named Mabel to navigate her grief and preserve memories of their shared love of the natural world.

As Helen teaches Mabel to hunt and fly, she confronts her own neglected emotions. What begins as an act of endurance transforms into a powerful journey of resilience, healing, and self-discovery. Multiple screenings at Exeter PictureHouse.