Unique wake venues in Exeter

A wake is an informal event that traditionally takes place after a funeral service and cremation or burial. It’s usually an informal event that involves family and friends gathering to share memories and celebrate the life of their loved one.

Traditionally, wakes would take place at someone’s home, or a community centre or pub, but they can take place anywhere. The people organising the wake may want to honour their loved one by holding the wake at a place that was special to them, such as at the grounds of their favourite football team, for example. 

Also, although wakes usually take place directly after the funeral service, they can be held at any time. They can also be as structured or as informal as the organiser would like. Wake organisers have the freedom to host the event that’s right for them, their family and friends, and their loved one.

If you’re organising a wake in Exeter, there are plenty of unique venues where you can host the event in your own way, from a trip to the Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery to a walk and picnic at the River Exe County Park. 

Find your funeral director in Exeter who will help you arrange a cremation, and give you ideas for a wake, memorial or reception that’s right for you. 

If your loved one was a fan of art or history, then having their wake at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery could be an excellent choice. Open Tuesday to Sunday, you can enter for free and explore some of your loved one’s favourite exhibitions. It could be a fantastic way to share memories of your loved one and pay tribute to them in a way that feels right to you. 

There is a range of collections available from local history to natural sciences, allowing you to walk through old favourite exhibitions or discover new ones that your loved one would have enjoyed. You could also take advantage of the on-site cafe to enjoy some refreshments. Why not sit where your loved one used to and enjoy a drink in their memory?

For those that would like some more privacy, you can hire one of the private rooms at the museum and gallery. The rooms are beautiful and you can even rent the Victorian Gallery, where you can host both small or large gatherings. You can also organise catering.

There is also the option to add private tours on certain collections like fine and decorative arts or butterflies for no more than twelve guests. If your loved one was a fan of one of these exhibitions this can be a great way to feel close to them. 

For an accurate quote, you can contact the museum directly via email or phone. An advisor will provide you with more details to help bring your unique wake to life. 

If your loved one enjoyed nature or walks through the park, then you could hold the wake at the River Exe County Park. with the River Exe running through it, this park has spectacular views of the river. It's the ideal place to take a moment of quiet reflection and think about your loved one. 

There is plenty of green space too, should you wish to stop for a picnic with your friends and family. Be sure to bring plenty of blankets and chairs for everyone to sit and raise a glass to your loved one. 

There is plenty of space in the park for you to spread out and have some privacy for your wake. Be sure to check the weather beforehand to avoid the rain.