Medieval Life and History | Old Exeter Inn, Ashburton

Old Exeter Times

Medieval tapestry showing a crowned woman seated above a large wheel, with several people climbing or falling around it

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December 28, 2025

The Dark Ages. A thousand years of history, from 476AD to around 1450.

The Old Exeter Inn was built right in the middle of it. 1130AD. It started life housing the builders who constructed St Andrew’s Church – and we’ve been in the business of hospitality ever since. One of the oldest inns in the world.

But what was life really like back then? How did ordinary people live? What did they eat and drink? Did they have junk food? Did they go to the pub? Did they travel? Did they keep pets? And what about their toilets?

We’ve put together some entertaining viewing for you to explore this fascinating – and sometimes gruesome – period of history. Welcome to the Old Exeter Inn’s Medieval Channel.

What Happens when you use a Medieval Inn?

What’s the difference between Medieval Inns, Taverns or Ale Houses?

Medieval Junk Food!

Did Peasants Travel?

Murder was not a Crime (a bit like today).

Foul Medieval Toilets!

What did Peasants eat in Medieval times?

Is Medieval Food Healthy?

Were Peasants Slaves?

Did Medieval Peasants have Pets?

What did Rich People eat in Medieval Times?

What types of Horses were used in Medieval Times?

I Bet You didn’t Know This!

Can you go to the Toilet in Medieval Armour?

How did Medieval People Light their Homes?

How did Medieval People Wash?

Did Medieval People have Bad Breath and Rotting Teeth?

Real Jingle Bells to stop Medieval Horse Crashes!

Wildwoods!

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