From Blitz to blueprint

In May 1942, Exeter was engulfed in flames during one of the most destructive air raids of World War II - an attack now remembered as the Exeter Blitz.

Part of Hitler’s so-called Baedeker Raids, which targeted cities of cultural significance rather than military strategy, the raid was a direct retaliation for the bombing of Lübeck and other German towns. The aim was symbolic: to destroy the heart of historic England - and Exeter, with its medieval streets and grand architecture, was firmly in the crosshairs.

The raid began shortly after midnight, as German bombers dropped high explosives and incendiaries across the city. Fires broke out across the centre, worsened by a ruptured gas main, and firefighting efforts were stretched to the limit. Despite their bravery, emergency services were overwhelmed as the flames spread from one timber-framed building to the next.

Among the most notable casualties was the Royal Clarence Hotel - reputed to be England’s oldest hotel. Gutted by fire, it became a haunting symbol of the night’s devastation and a profound loss for generations of Exonians. Other historic buildings were levelled, including parts of Cathedral Close and the High Street.

Almost eighty years on, history has echoed. In 2016, the Royal Clarence was once again devastated by fire. But this time, its story isn’t ending - it’s being rewritten.

The historic hotel is now being restored by Exeter-based developer NooKo, who are breathing new life into the site while respecting its heritage. It’s a symbol of how Exeter continues to rebuild, reimagine, and move forward - even in the shadow of the past.

We’ll be speaking to the team at NooKo in the next issue of Exeter Tomorrow, where they’ll share their vision for restoring one of the city’s most iconic buildings.