Exeter Phoenix
📅 Upcoming Shows & Schedule
Across March and July 2027, Exeter Phoenix hosts 3 scheduled performances, spanning live music, touring theatre, and comedy. Featured headliners include The Rasmus and The Smyths Exeter. Ticket prices currently range from £159 for entry-level access up to £495 for premium seating depending on the production.
📍 Area & Accommodation
Upcoming Events at Exeter Phoenix
The Rasmus
19:30
The Rasmus
20:00
The Smyths Exeter
20:00
About Exeter Phoenix: Layout, History & Architecture
Exeter Phoenix, situated on Gandy Street, opened its doors in 1989 as a purpose-built arts complex. Designed by Anthony Hunt Associates, its architecture reflects a late 20th-century modernist approach, characterised by a functionalist aesthetic incorporating brickwork and concrete elements that blend into its city centre context. The facility primarily hosts live music, film, theatre, and visual arts across several distinct spaces.
The main auditorium, referred to simply as The Auditorium, is a flexible black-box style space with a typical standing capacity of approximately 500. For seated events, retractable raked seating can accommodate around 300 patrons, offering improved sightlines. When configured for standing gigs, the flat floor can lead to obstructed views towards the rear or sides for shorter individuals, a common characteristic of such venues. Acoustically, The Auditorium relies heavily on a well-tuned public address system to deliver clear sound; its rectangular shape and hard surfaces mean a certain degree of natural reverb is inherent, but the space is generally well-managed for amplified performances. For more intimate events, Studio 1 offers a smaller, low-ceilinged environment with a standing capacity of around 150, where direct proximity to the stage intensifies the live experience.
The Live Experience & Current Schedule
Upon arrival, entry is via the main doors on Gandy Street, leading directly into a spacious ground-floor foyer that houses the primary bar. This area serves as a central gathering point, often bustling before performances and during intervals. Within The Auditorium, standing gigs can create a dense, energetic atmosphere close to the stage, typical of flat-floor venues. When seating is deployed, the raked configuration provides clearer views, though patrons seeking an unobstructed experience should aim for central positions. The diverse programming attracts a broad demographic, contributing to a varied but consistently engaged crowd dynamic. With 3 live performances scheduled, upcoming entry prices start from £159. The next confirmed event on the calendar is The Rasmus on 5th March 2027.
Travel & Arrival Logistics
Rail & Mainline Connections
The nearest mainline station is Exeter Central, a 5-minute walk from the venue. From the station exit, turn left onto Queen Street, proceed approximately 350 meters, then turn right onto Gandy Street. The Phoenix is a further 100 meters down Gandy Street on the left.
Bus & Local Transit
Exeter Bus Station, located on Paris Street, is the city's main hub and is a 7-minute walk (600m) from the venue. Numerous local bus routes stop on High Street and Queen Street, both within a 2-3 minute walk of Gandy Street.
Parking & Vehicle Access
Several multi-storey car parks are available within a short walk. Princesshay Car Park (EX1 1QA) is approximately 400 meters away (5-minute walk) via Paris Street. Guildhall Shopping Centre Car Park (EX4 3HP) offers closer parking, approximately 250 meters away (3-minute walk) with access from Paul Street. Expect city centre fees and potential congestion, particularly during peak hours or large city events; advance booking or early arrival is advisable.
Entry, Queues & Security
The main entrance is directly on Gandy Street. Queues typically form along the pavement outside the venue. Standard bag search policies are in operation, and patrons should anticipate security checks. For optimal standing positions at popular gigs, arriving 30-45 minutes before advertised doors is recommended. For seated events or ticket collection, arriving 15-20 minutes before the performance start time is usually sufficient.