Space Hire

Overview

About

The Custom House is possibly the earliest surviving brick building in Exeter and the earliest purpose-built Custom House in England.

Located on Exeter’s thriving quayside area, today it operates as an exciting centre for arts and culture, offering exhibitions, activities and performances across the seasons. With world-renowned architecture and unrivalled views, it makes a truly unique setting to host your meeting, workshop or conference.

With a number of character rooms that can seat up to 50 people, the venue can also offer refreshements/bar facilities and is fully accessible via a lift along with having disabled toilet facilities. A large number of hospitality venues are on the dorstep, helping to cater to any needs.

Facilities

Wil-Fi
Equipment hire available
Multimedia/Digital Projector
PA System
Flipchart and Pens
Servery
Licensed for alcohol
Own catering allowed
All rooms offer natural daylight

Accessibility

All Areas Accessible to Disabled Visitors
Guide Dogs Permitted
Parking Areas for Disabled Visitors
Toilets for Disabled Visitors

Road Directions

It’s simple to visit Exeter Custom House by car from either side of the River Exe. Our nearest car parks both provide step-free access to our venues.

City centre side – Cathedral and Quay car parks.
St Thomas side (recommended if accessing from the M5 and A30) – Haven Banks car park.

Public Transport Directions

Exeter St Thomas station is less than ten minutes walk away, linking Exeter Canal and Quayside to all areas of the city, beaches and further afield. The G bus service runs every hour on the half hour from the Quay to Exeter High Street, and the Green bus service also runs nearby.

Get in Touch

Please feel free to get in touch if you would like to visit, or would like to check provisional dates. You are also welcome to come and view the space at your own convenience during our usual opening hours.

Phone: 01392 271611
Email: customhouse@exeter.gov.uk

Complete the form below and we’ll be in touch soon:

Floorplan

Whilst our rooms are not vast, they are certainly beautiful. Each has a story to tell, and we’d love to add yours through hiring one of our spaces. Please contact us on customhouse@exeter.gov.uk to discuss your event and how we can help.

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Uses for our space

Small Performances

The Long Room is often used for small live performances and events. It is a beautiful, intimate space that can hold approx 60 guests, depending on your layout. Some basic equipment may be available to hire.

Private or public meetings

It is possible to use the smaller rooms for closed meetings, especially during our non-opening hours.

Workshops

The smaller rooms are ideal for workshops – some of the rooms are inter connecting and can be shut off even when the building is open to the public.

Ceremonies

If you are looking for a unique venue for a special event, why not consider the Custom House? We aren’t currently licensed for weddings, but are exploring this possibility for the future.

Drinks receptions

The beautiful Long Room offers a unique space for drinks receptions. A new servery space is being developed to make things a little easier for caterers and there are many excellent local suppliers on the doorstep.

Readings & presentations

Regular events including readings and presentations are held at the Custom House, which is ideally situated in central Exeter, close to bus and train links.