Imperial, Exeter

serves alcohol from 9am

This is a large Grade II* Listed J D Wetherspoon pub close to the university, Central and St David's railway stations, with buses passing close by. Built in 1810 as Elmfield House, it was converted into the Imperial Hotel in 1923, and remained a hotel until 1994. It opened as a Wetherspoon's in February 1996, and its attractive architecture and orangery, which was added by Dr William Buller Henderson, who purchased the property in 1897, is still there to be enjoyed.

The large garden offers plenty of tables and seating to enjoy in the fine weather. Inside there are two bars, so do inspect both to see the full range of the ten real ales that are usually available, including Abbot and Ruddles; guest ales often come from local breweries. Real cider is available but not all boxed ciders / perries here conform to CAMRA's real cider / perry definition. Good-value food is served all day until 11pm, and families are welcome. The pub is well frequented by the local student population. A function room is available for meetings etc. Wetherspoon's beer and cider festivals are regularly held, including some showcasing local breweries.