Parliament Street Exeter – Is this the Narrowest Street in the World?

Barely 25 inches wide at its narrowest, Parliament Street Exeter is a place you can easily miss on the bustling Exeter High Street. 

It’s a crowded street, but only a fraction of curious visitors notice this tiny alley tucked in between a Greggs Bakery and Patisserie Valerie. 

Awarded its very own plaque, Parliament Street in Exeter is believed to be the narrowest street in the world.

But how much of this is true, and how did such a minuscule street come to be in the first place?

Here’s a complete guide to Parliament Street, Exeter, with the history, how to find it and whether this really is the narrowest street in the world.

Parliament Street Exeter history

This tiny street, which leads from Exeter High Street to Waterbeer Street, has remained relatively unchanged since the 14th-century. 

Back then, it was known as Small Lane and the medieval residents used to empty their chamber pots in this enclosed alleyway.

So, as you can imagine, the stench must have been horrific.

In fact, it got so bad that in 1740 the council asked residents to lock their doors so people would stop dumping their refuse here.

The name Small Lane eventually changed to Parliament Street at some point during the 17th – 19th centuries. But the reason remains a mystery.

Many claim it was a bit of a joke in reference to Oliver Cromwell and the Parliamentarians’ power during the English Civil War. 

Others say the name changed due to the 1832 Parliamentary Reform Act.

The initial rejection of this bill in Parliament saw riots throughout the country, including Exeter. 

Regardless, although the name of the street changed, the size didn’t – much to the distaste of the Waterbeer Street residents. 

In 1836, they petitioned to widen the street and even raised £130 for the work to be done. But it was never carried out due to complications.

The only changes that have ever been made to this street since the 1300s were in the 1970s with the Exeter Guildhall shopping centre.

It was only then that the opening at Waterbeer Street was widened slightly.

Despite these changes, it’s still believed to be the narrowest street in the world and even has its very own plaque.

How narrow is Parliament Street in Exeter? 

Parliament Street in Exeter is a tiny 25 inches at its narrowest.

It’s barely big enough for both shoulders and definitely not big enough for two people to pass each other.

You’ll find this smaller opening on Exeter High Street along with the honorary plaque.

As you move inside and shuffle your way through this 50 metre long street (160 feet), it does gradually get wider, but only by around 20 inches or so.

The widest that Parliament Street gets is 45 inches at the very end of Waterbeer Street, which is now a courtyard of a shopping centre.

That’s why many believe that this street is the narrowest in the world.

Is Parliament Street Exeter the narrowest street in the world? 

Unfortunately, Parliament Street in Exeter is not the narrowest street in the world. 

The Guinness Book of World Records confirmed that a street in the German city of Reutlingen holds that title. 

It’s called Spreuerhofstrasse, and it’s a minuscule 31 centimetres or 12 inches at its narrowest. It’s 50 centimetres at its widest.

However, don’t be too disappointed; this tiny street in Exeter is definitely the narrowest in Britain. 

Regardless of minor details, it’s still worth seeking out and experiencing a walk down this tiny tapered street while you’re here.

If only for the fact that you can say that you have done it.

How to find Parliament Street in Exeter 

You can easily miss Parliament Street on your adventures through Exeter as it is such a tiny opening on a busy High Street.

If you head down the bustling Exeter High Street, you’ll eventually reach Gregg’s Bakery and Patisserie Valerie.

You’ll find the plaque for what is believed to be the narrowest street in the world in the gap between them.

What to expect on your visit

As someone who is slightly claustrophobic, I was a little worried walking down this narrow street.

But as I could see the opening at the end some 50 metres away, it wasn’t so bad.

At the narrowest point, I could barely fit my shoulders in between the walls, and my bag kept scraping on the sides.

Admittedly, this street was a little smelly. I guess people like to use this quiet street to relieve themselves on a night out.

Luckily, it’s a bit of a wind tunnel, so there was thankfully some fresh air. 

Weirdly enough, it was still fun making my way through here, and I just kept laughing.

Just make sure to look and see if someone is coming the other way.

Although you can probably fit through fine on your own, there is definitely not enough room for two people to cross each other.

When you reach the end, you’ll now be in the Exeter Guildhall shopping centre.

So, you can either carry on your merry way or head back again along the narrow passageway to the High Street.

Don’t forget to take a selfie to immortalise your experience walking through one of the narrowest streets in the entire world.

Fun Parliament Street Exeter facts 

• Parliament Street is a tiny 25 inches wide at its narrowest point and 45 inches at its widest

• It’s also 50 metres long, and it’s not wide enough for two pedestrians to pass by each other inside

• The residents of Waterbeer Street, Exeter, petitioned for this street to be widened in 1836, but the plans fell through 

• This used to be a place where people would empty their chamber pots into the streets in medieval times. Can you imagine the smell? 

More historic places in Exeter

As a historic city in the UK, Exeter is truly littered with historic attractions, museums, and amazing places to visit. 

After you’ve squeezed your way through Parliament Street, I would recommend crossing the road and exploring Exeter Cathedral. 

You can wander along the green where Roman Bathhouses were built underneath and enter this majestic building from 1050AD.

Afterwards, you can explore the historic Cathedral Close, which has many incredible buildings.

Don’t forget to also stop by 10 Cathedral Close with its intricately carved Devon oak door.

It’s thought to be the inspiration for the Room of Requirement in Harry Potter.

The Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM) is a great museum to visit, which can be found near Gandy Street.

This is a vibrant shopping street similar to Diagon Alley, dating back to Saxon times. 

You could walk the medieval Exeter City Walls from Northernhay Gardens and see the remains of Rougemont Castle.

You can visit St Nicholas’ Priory on Fore Street, which is a bit of a hidden gem with a peaceful garden and courtyard. 

The oldest street in Exeter can be found on Stepcote Hill, which has the historic and cobbled St Mary’s Steps. 

Here, you’ll find The House That Moved and Book-Cycle, which is one of the best bookshops in the city.

Also, the Medieval Exe Bridge lies by the Historic Quays. 

How to visit Exeter in the UK

Exeter is a vibrant city located on the River Exe in the county of Devon, which is located in the South West of England.

It’s easily accessible by car from the likes of London, the Midlands, and Bristol along the M5 Motorway.

If you’re heading in from Cornwall or South Devon, you can easily head to Exeter on the Devon Expressway.

A train journey to Exeter is only two hours from London. A regular direct service runs from London Paddington to Exeter St David’s. 

Or, you can use National Express to travel to Exeter by coach, which is a lot cheaper than the railways if you’re on a budget. 

Exeter Parking 

Exeter car parking can be expensive if you want to go sightseeing all day.

There are park and ride options, but there are some budget car parks to be found. 

The cheapest place to park in Exeter all day has to be Okehampton Street Car Park.

It’s an Exeter City Council car park, and it only costs £3.50 to park here all day. 

You’re only a 10-15 minute walk to the High Street and Parliament Street from here. So, it’s perfect if you want to save some cash. 

Read more of my Devon travel guides

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How to visit Wistman’s Wood on Dartmoor

How to visit Brentor Church in Dartmoor

How to visit Burgh Island and things to do there

An afternoon tea at Burgh Island Hotel 

Why you must visit Agatha Christie’s Greenway House

Why you must visit the Babbacombe Cliff Railway

Wander the Agatha Christie Mile in Torquay 

Top things to do in Cockington Village 

Riding the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway in Exmoor 

Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks Review

Magical Valley of the Rocks Devon guide

Save Parliament Street Exeter for later