Science on tap: Exeter pubs to host Pint of Science 2026 

Some of Exeter’s best-loved pubs will be hosting this year’s Pint of Science, offering up fascinating talks on everything from atoms and galaxies to understanding neurodiversity.

Running from 18-20 May, this year’s festival marks the 13th edition of the annual event, which brings researchers out of the lab and into local bars in 42 cities across the UK.

In Exeter, venues including the Bootlegger, Arcadia and City Gate Hotel will transform into hubs of scientific discussion with informative talks, demonstrations, live experiments, and a multi-city pub quiz competition.

Researchers from the University of Exeter and the MET office will present at this year’s festival delivering a range of talks from all areas including: busting age-old medical myths, how infection can influence the brain in Alzheimer’s disease and how neurodiverse brains think, pay attention and carry out executive function differently.

On top of the talks, there’s also the chance to take part in the UK’s biggest pub quiz. The interactive quiz will run at the same time in cities across the country, giving Exeter locals the chance to go head-to-head with teams nationwide in a battle of brains.

Dr Harry Green, Exeter joint coordinator of Pint of Science, said: “Oksana and I are very excited to welcome everyone in Exeter to Pint of Science this year! Across the Bootlegger, City Gate Hotel, and the Arcadia, we have some fantastic talks lined up, from the world-leading research teams from Exeter University. It’s a great chance to hear directly from researchers, ask questions, and enjoy science in a relaxed and welcoming setting. We can’t wait to see people come together for another inspiring and entertaining festival across the city”

Tickets are available from the Pint of Science website and cost £5 each.