CUCKOO Taproom and Bottleshop

CUCKOO's Instagram bio says WE SELL DRINKS twice and nothing else, which tells you most of what you need to know about the tone. Founded by the pair behind Whyte Bar Brewing Co - a cuckoo brewery, brewing on other people's kit, hence the name - it turned five in 2026 and has become the fixed point of Exeter's craft beer scene.

Around ten rotating keg lines pour the best of the independents - Verdant, DEYA, Left Handed Giant, Pomona Island have all been through - backed by over a hundred bottles and cans spanning beer, wine, cider and spirits, all from independent producers. Monthly live music, bottle shares and gleefully chaotic birthday weekends round it out. On Paris Street, seats about thirty.