About Tennis at Exeter
The University of Exeter Tennis Club is one of the most popular racket sports clubs at the university, competing in BUCS South West Tennis Conference with men's and women's teams across Division 1 and Division 2. The club has access to the university's on-campus courts at Streatham Sports Park and maintains affiliations with Exeter & County Tennis Club for additional court access. Tennis at Exeter has a strong competitive programme at the top — county-standard players compete in BUCS leagues — alongside an excellent social dimension including regular socials, open tournaments, and an annual tour. The campus courts are one of the club's assets: lunchtime and post-lecture sessions are easily accessible without the need to travel off-campus.
Club History
Exeter Tennis Club has been active at BUCS level throughout the South West for many years. The club's competitive programme has been consistent in Division 1 and Division 2, and its coaching programme has strengthened with university sports department support. The annual tour — visiting various European and UK destinations — is a long-standing club tradition and one of the most social events in Exeter university sport.
Joining the Tennis Club
Open joining with competitive team trials in September. All levels welcome from complete beginners to county-level competitive players. September welcome social (open play, casual format) is the recommended starting point. Competitive squad placement happens across the first few weeks based on observed standard. Social and recreational members join without trial.
Training
Competitive squad sessions on Tuesday evenings and Thursday evenings at the Sports Park courts. Social sessions mid-week and weekend depending on court availability. BUCS fixtures on Wednesday afternoons. Independent court bookings available to members at university member rates.
BUCS Competition
BUCS South West Tennis Conference — Division 1 and Division 2 team competitions across men's and women's entries. Mixed doubles in some formats. Home and away tie format. Individual BUCS Championships available for qualifying players. Exeter also enters internal university competitions and organises club open tournaments during summer term.
Teams
Highlights & Alumni
Division 1 competitive presence across men's and women's programmes. County-standard players competing at BUCS level. Annual tour consistently cited as one of the best social events at the university. Campus court access makes lunchtime and post-lecture tennis uniquely accessible at Exeter.
Tips for Prospective Members
- Campus courts mean you can play lunchtime sessions between lectures — far more accessible than clubs requiring off-campus travel
- Come to the September social before formal trials — it's the best way to gauge the standard and meet the committee
- Independent court bookings at university rates are very affordable — use them to practice in addition to squad sessions
- The annual tour is one of the highlights of the tennis club calendar — join from day one so you're embedded in the community
- Pennsylvania Road and St James give the best walk-in access to the campus courts without needing to plan transport
Student Accommodation for Tennis Players
Pennsylvania Road and St James are most convenient for campus court access. Heavitree is also popular — slightly quieter and still within reasonable distance of campus. The social nature of tennis at Exeter draws members from across student areas, and the club's social programme brings people together effectively regardless of accommodation location.
View Properties Near the University →Popular Areas for Tennis Players
Most University of Exeter tennis players live in one of these student areas — all within easy reach of Streatham Campus and Sports Park:
Related Sports at Exeter University
If you play tennis you may also be interested in these Exeter University clubs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the University of Exeter have tennis courts on campus?
Yes — Streatham Sports Park has hard courts available for the club's sessions and BUCS fixtures. Courts can also be booked independently at university member rates for additional practice.
What BUCS level does Exeter University Tennis compete at?
Division 1 and Division 2 of the BUCS South West Tennis Conference, with men's and women's team entries.
Is there social tennis at Exeter University?
Yes — the social programme runs alongside BUCS competition with regular open sessions, club tournaments, and mixed socials. The annual tour is one of the club's most popular traditions.
Can beginners join Exeter University Tennis Club?
Yes — all abilities welcome. Beginners participate in social sessions and the club can provide coaching referrals for those wanting to develop their game from scratch.
What accommodation is best for Exeter University tennis students?
Pennsylvania Road and St James for direct walk-in campus court access. Heavitree is also popular for those who prefer a slightly quieter living environment.
Does Exeter University Tennis Club have an annual tour?
Yes — the annual tour is one of the club's defining social traditions and has visited various European and UK destinations. It's consistently cited by members as one of the best events of the university year.