Unesco City Of Literature In Devon: A Comprehensive Guide

September 27, 2025 by Paula

Table of Contents

Unesco City Of Literature In Devon: Celebrating Literary Heritage

Devon, a county renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich history, holds a unique distinction: it is home to Exeter, a designated Unesco City of Literature. This prestigious title recognizes Exeter’s vibrant literary scene, its commitment to fostering a love of reading and writing, and its dedication to preserving its literary heritage. Are you curious about what makes Exeter a Unesco City of Literature and what this designation means for Devon? This comprehensive guide will delve into the heart of Exeter’s literary landscape, exploring its history, key initiatives, and the impact of this prestigious recognition. We aim to provide you with an in-depth understanding of what makes Exeter a cornerstone of literary culture in the UK. This guide provides unparalleled insight into the city’s literary scene.

What Does It Mean to Be a Unesco City of Literature In Devon?

The Unesco Creative Cities Network (UCCN) was established in 2004 to promote cooperation among cities that have identified creativity as a strategic factor for sustainable urban development. The City of Literature designation, one of seven creative fields recognized by Unesco, highlights cities that excel in promoting literature, fostering a vibrant literary culture, and preserving their literary heritage. Exeter achieved this designation, making it a key part of the Unesco City of Literature network within Devon.

Becoming a Unesco City of Literature involves meeting specific criteria, including:

A thriving literary scene with active writers, publishers, and booksellers.
A strong network of libraries, literary festivals, and events.
Educational programs that promote reading and writing.
A commitment to supporting literary creation and dissemination.
Preservation of literary heritage and promotion of literary tourism.

For Exeter, this designation is not merely an accolade but a call to action, reinforcing the city’s commitment to nurturing its literary ecosystem and promoting literature to a wider audience.

The Scope of Literary Activities

The reach of Exeter’s literary activities extends far beyond the city center. Across Devon, libraries, writing groups, and literary festivals contribute to a county-wide celebration of the written word. The Unesco designation serves as a catalyst, encouraging collaboration and innovation within the literary community.

The History of Exeter’s Literary Scene

Exeter’s literary history stretches back centuries, with a rich tradition of writing, publishing, and storytelling. The city has been home to numerous renowned authors and poets, and its literary institutions have played a vital role in shaping the cultural landscape of Devon.

Key milestones in Exeter’s literary history include:

The establishment of Exeter Cathedral Library, one of the oldest libraries in England, housing a vast collection of manuscripts and early printed books.
The founding of the Exeter Literary Society in the 19th century, which brought together writers, intellectuals, and book lovers for discussions and lectures.
The emergence of notable authors such as R.D. Blackmore, author of “Lorna Doone,” who drew inspiration from the Devon landscape.
The establishment of the University of Exeter’s Department of English, which has become a leading center for literary research and education.

These historical foundations have paved the way for Exeter’s current vibrant literary scene, making it a worthy recipient of the Unesco City of Literature designation.

Notable Literary Figures Associated with Exeter

Exeter has been home to, or inspired, numerous authors. From the historical works inspired by the Cathedral library to contemporary poets and novelists, the city and the wider Devon area have a long and storied literary past.

Key Literary Organizations and Initiatives in Exeter

Exeter’s literary scene is supported by a network of organizations and initiatives that promote reading, writing, and literary engagement. These include:

Exeter City Council’s Arts and Culture Team: This team plays a key role in supporting literary events and initiatives, working in partnership with local organizations to promote Exeter as a cultural destination.
Exeter Library: A vital community hub, Exeter Library offers a wide range of books, resources, and programs for readers of all ages. It hosts author talks, writing workshops, and reading groups, fostering a love of literature in the community.
The University of Exeter’s English Department: As a leading center for literary research and education, the University of Exeter’s English Department contributes significantly to Exeter’s literary scene. It hosts public lectures, seminars, and conferences, bringing together scholars, writers, and readers from around the world.
Literature Works: This regional organization supports writers and promotes literature across the South West. It offers mentoring programs, workshops, and funding opportunities for writers, helping them to develop their craft and reach a wider audience.
Exeter Literary Festival: An annual event that celebrates literature in all its forms, the Exeter Literary Festival features author talks, readings, workshops, and performances. It attracts writers and readers from across the UK and beyond, contributing to Exeter’s reputation as a literary hub.

These organizations and initiatives work collaboratively to create a vibrant and inclusive literary ecosystem in Exeter, ensuring that literature remains a vital part of the city’s cultural life.

The Role of the University of Exeter

The University of Exeter plays a particularly important role, providing a platform for emerging writers, hosting literary events, and contributing to scholarly research on literature. Its presence enriches the intellectual and creative landscape of the city.

The Exeter Literary Festival: A Showcase of Literary Talent

The Exeter Literary Festival is a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar, attracting writers and readers from across the UK and beyond. This annual event celebrates literature in all its forms, featuring author talks, readings, workshops, and performances.

The festival provides a platform for established and emerging writers to share their work, engage with audiences, and connect with other members of the literary community. It also offers a diverse range of events for readers of all ages and interests, from children’s storytimes to poetry slams to discussions on contemporary literature.

The Exeter Literary Festival plays a vital role in promoting literature and fostering a love of reading in Exeter and the wider region. It contributes to the city’s reputation as a literary hub and enhances its appeal as a cultural destination.

Festival Highlights and Notable Guests

Each year, the Exeter Literary Festival features a diverse lineup of authors, poets, and performers. Past festivals have included appearances by Booker Prize winners, bestselling novelists, and acclaimed poets.

The Impact of the Unesco City of Literature Designation

The Unesco City of Literature designation has had a significant impact on Exeter, raising its profile as a cultural destination and boosting its literary tourism. The designation has also fostered a greater sense of pride and engagement within the local literary community.

Benefits of the designation include:

Increased visibility and recognition for Exeter’s literary scene.
Opportunities for collaboration and exchange with other Unesco Cities of Literature around the world.
Enhanced funding opportunities for literary projects and initiatives.
A boost to literary tourism, attracting visitors to Exeter to experience its literary heritage and attend literary events.
A greater sense of pride and engagement within the local literary community, fostering a more vibrant and inclusive literary culture.

The Unesco City of Literature designation has helped to solidify Exeter’s position as a leading center for literature in the UK and has created new opportunities for growth and development within the city’s literary sector.

Economic and Cultural Benefits

The designation has not only enhanced Exeter’s cultural landscape but has also contributed to its economic growth by attracting tourists and supporting local businesses. This symbiotic relationship between culture and economy is a key aspect of the Unesco Creative Cities Network.

Promoting Reading and Writing in Devon’s Communities

A core objective of Exeter’s Unesco City of Literature designation is to promote reading and writing in communities across Devon. This involves working with schools, libraries, and community groups to deliver programs and initiatives that foster a love of literature and encourage creative expression.

Examples of such initiatives include:

Reading schemes for children and young people: These schemes aim to encourage children to read for pleasure and to develop their literacy skills. They often involve partnerships with local schools and libraries, providing access to books and resources for children from all backgrounds.
Writing workshops for adults: These workshops provide opportunities for adults to develop their writing skills and explore different genres of writing. They are often led by experienced writers and teachers, offering guidance and support to aspiring authors.
Community reading groups: These groups bring people together to discuss books and share their reading experiences. They provide a social and intellectual outlet for readers, fostering a sense of community and promoting a love of literature.
Literary outreach programs: These programs aim to reach underserved communities and bring literature to people who may not otherwise have access to it. They often involve partnerships with community centers, prisons, and hospitals, providing books, resources, and literary activities to people in need.

These initiatives play a vital role in promoting literacy, fostering creativity, and building stronger communities in Devon. They demonstrate Exeter’s commitment to making literature accessible to all.

Reaching Underserved Communities

Special attention is given to reaching underserved communities through targeted programs. These initiatives aim to break down barriers to literacy and provide opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds to engage with literature.

Preserving Devon’s Literary Heritage

Exeter’s Unesco City of Literature designation also encompasses a commitment to preserving Devon’s rich literary heritage. This involves protecting historical sites, celebrating notable authors, and promoting the study of local literature.

Key aspects of preserving Devon’s literary heritage include:

Protecting historical sites associated with literature: This includes preserving the homes and workplaces of notable authors, as well as sites that have inspired literary works.
Celebrating notable authors from Devon: This involves organizing events and exhibitions that showcase the lives and works of Devon’s most celebrated authors.
Promoting the study of local literature: This involves encouraging the study of Devon literature in schools and universities, as well as supporting research into the region’s literary history.
Creating literary trails and tours: These trails and tours guide visitors to sites of literary interest, providing insights into Devon’s literary heritage.

By preserving its literary heritage, Exeter ensures that future generations can appreciate and learn from the region’s rich literary traditions.

Literary Landmarks and Walking Tours

Visitors can explore Exeter’s literary heritage through guided walking tours that highlight key landmarks and literary connections. These tours provide a fascinating glimpse into the city’s literary past.

Exeter’s Literary Future: Innovation and Collaboration

As a Unesco City of Literature, Exeter is committed to fostering innovation and collaboration within its literary sector. This involves supporting new writing initiatives, promoting digital literature, and encouraging partnerships between writers, publishers, and other creative professionals.

Key areas of focus include:

Supporting new writing initiatives: This involves providing funding, mentoring, and other resources to emerging writers, helping them to develop their craft and reach a wider audience.
Promoting digital literature: This involves embracing new technologies and platforms to create and disseminate literature, such as e-books, audiobooks, and online literary magazines.
Encouraging partnerships between writers, publishers, and other creative professionals: This involves fostering collaboration and networking opportunities within the literary sector, helping to create a more vibrant and sustainable literary ecosystem.
Developing international collaborations: This involves working with other Unesco Cities of Literature around the world to share best practices, exchange ideas, and promote literary exchange.

By embracing innovation and fostering collaboration, Exeter aims to ensure that its literary scene remains vibrant and relevant in the years to come.

Embracing Digital Literature

Exeter is actively exploring new ways to engage with audiences through digital platforms. This includes supporting online literary magazines, promoting e-books, and developing interactive literary experiences.

Q&A: Your Questions About Exeter as a Unesco City of Literature Answered

What specific criteria did Exeter meet to become a Unesco City of Literature?
Exeter demonstrated a thriving literary scene, a strong network of libraries and literary organizations, educational programs promoting reading and writing, and a commitment to preserving its literary heritage.
How does the Unesco designation benefit local writers in Devon?
The designation provides increased visibility, funding opportunities, and networking prospects for local writers, helping them to develop their craft and reach a wider audience.
What are some lesser-known literary gems to explore in Exeter?
Explore the hidden corners of Exeter Cathedral Library, discover independent bookstores like Bookbag, and attend readings by emerging writers at local venues.
How can tourists experience Exeter’s literary culture?
Take a guided literary walking tour, visit Exeter Library, attend the Exeter Literary Festival, and explore the city’s independent bookstores and cafes.
What role do schools play in promoting Exeter’s literary status?
Schools incorporate local literature into their curriculum, organize author visits, and encourage students to participate in writing competitions and literary events.
Are there any writing residencies available in Exeter?
Check with the University of Exeter’s English Department and Literature Works for information on writing residencies and other opportunities for writers.
How does Exeter collaborate with other Unesco Cities of Literature?
Exeter participates in international literary festivals, exchanges writers and artists, and collaborates on joint projects to promote literature and cultural exchange.
What is the future vision for Exeter as a Unesco City of Literature?
The vision is to continue fostering a vibrant and inclusive literary culture, supporting local writers, promoting reading and writing, and preserving Devon’s literary heritage for future generations.
How does the designation impact Exeter’s economy?
The designation attracts literary tourists, supports local businesses, and enhances Exeter’s reputation as a cultural destination, contributing to the city’s economic growth.
What are some challenges Exeter faces in maintaining its status as a Unesco City of Literature?
Challenges include securing funding for literary initiatives, engaging diverse audiences, and adapting to the changing landscape of literature in the digital age.

Conclusion: Celebrating Exeter’s Literary Excellence

Exeter’s designation as a Unesco City of Literature is a testament to its rich literary heritage, its vibrant literary scene, and its commitment to promoting reading and writing. This recognition has not only raised Exeter’s profile as a cultural destination but has also fostered a greater sense of pride and engagement within the local literary community. By preserving its literary heritage, supporting local writers, and promoting reading and writing, Exeter is ensuring that literature remains a vital part of the city’s cultural life for generations to come. Share your thoughts on Exeter’s literary scene in the comments below, or explore our guide to literary landmarks in Devon.