Exeter Cathedral astronomical clock, Medieval astronomical clock in Exeter Cathedral, England
The Exeter Cathedral astronomical clock displays a golden sphere at its center representing Earth, with moving parts that show the moon's phases and tell time using Roman numerals. The mechanism has multiple rotating elements that work together in a complex arrangement visible from below.
The clock was built in 1484 and stands among the oldest of its kind in England. An upper dial with a single hand for showing minutes was added in 1759, giving it more precise timekeeping.
The Latin inscription below the clock shows how medieval people thought about time and faith as connected parts of life. The clock shaped how people in the cathedral marked their days and gathered for services.
The clock can be seen and heard from many spots in the cathedral, though the best view is from below when standing in the main nave. Timing your visit to hear the chimes and watch the mechanism move makes for a more rewarding experience.
A small circular opening beneath the clock was made to allow cathedral cats to hunt the mice attracted by animal fat used in the clockwork. This practical solution reveals how the maintenance and daily operation of the mechanism was managed.
Location: Exeter
Inception: 1484
GPS coordinates: 50.72300,-3.53050
Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:09
Royal Clarence Hotel
47 m
St Martin's Church
70 m
The Ship Inn
66 m
Statue of Bishop Hooker
21 m
16 And 17, Cathedral Yard
31 m
Exeter Cathedral Library
66 m
Mol's Coffee House
59 m
40, High Street
68 m
22, Cathedral Yard
45 m
1 and 2, Catherine Street
61 m
43, High Street
62 m
55 And 56, High Street; 23, Cathedral Yard
59 m
24, Cathedral Yard
70 m
39, High Street
74 m
2, Cathedral Close
62 m
5, Cathedral Close
70 m
11-13, Martin's Lane
66 m
4, Cathedral Close
62 m
3, Cathedral Close
65 m
54, High Street
70 m
45, High Street
60 m
41 And 42, High Street
69 m
53, High Street
70 m
47, High Street
58 m
44, High Street
60 m
46, High Street
63 m
18, Cathedral Yard
29 m
16, Cathedral Yard
33 mVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes