AUTHOR
Pamela Silkstone
Founder
Founder of Dinners With Friends. Passionate about bringing people together over great food.
276
Articles Published
Loneliness in Devon: The Statistics, and What Actually Helps
How common is loneliness in Devon and the UK? The ONS numbers, why rural counties are hit differently, NHS social prescribing explained, and the local groups that genuinely help.
Pamela Silkstone
12 July 2026
Best Beaches Near Exeter 2026 — Devon's Finest Coastal Days Out
The best beaches near Exeter ranked by distance. Sandy bays, hidden coves, dog-friendly stretches and Jurassic Coast gems — all within 40 minutes of the city.
Pamela Silkstone
19 May 2026
Best Cream Tea in Exeter and Devon 2026
Where to find the best cream tea in Exeter and Devon — from cathedral-view scones to Dartmoor farm cafes and seaside tearooms. Prices, details and the jam vs cream debate.
Pamela Silkstone
19 May 2026
Best Pottery Painting and Craft Workshops in Exeter 2026
The best pottery painting studios, pottery classes, and craft workshops in Exeter for 2026 — from drop-in ceramic painting to wheel throwing and creative group experiences.
Pamela Silkstone
19 May 2026
Best Shops in Exeter 2026 — Independent Shopping Guide by Neighbourhood
Discover the best shops in Exeter — from Gandy Street's craft boutiques to Magdalen Road's delis and Fore Street's vintage finds. A neighbourhood-by-neighbourhood guide.
Pamela Silkstone
19 May 2026
Best Wine Tasting Experiences in Exeter and Devon 2026
Discover the best wine tasting experiences in Exeter and Devon for 2026 — vineyard tours, wine schools, tasting events, and the English vineyards putting Devon on the map.
Pamela Silkstone
19 May 2026
Exeter Pride 2026 — Complete Guide to Dates, Events, and Where to Celebrate
Your complete guide to Exeter Pride 2026: Saturday 9 May parade route, stage line-ups, family events, afterparties, accessibility info, and where to eat and drink.
Pamela Silkstone
19 May 2026
Singles Events in Exeter 2026 — Where to Meet People Without the Pressure
A guide to singles events in Exeter for 2026 — speed dating, social clubs, activity meetups and low-pressure ways to meet new people in Devon.
Pamela Silkstone
19 May 2026
Why Dinners With Friends Is the Singles Event You Should Actually Try
Forget speed dating and awkward mixers. The best way to meet someone might be sitting down to a great dinner with strangers — no agenda, no pressure, no scorecards.
Pamela Silkstone
19 May 2026
Best Book Clubs and Literary Events in Exeter: A Guide for Readers Who Want Real Connection
Every book club, reading group and literary event in Exeter for 2026 — from Silent Book Club to the UNESCO Book Market on Cathedral Green.
Pamela Silkstone
9 April 2026
Best Fish and Chips in Exeter and Devon 2026: The Definitive Guide
From Exeter's best chippies to award-winning seaside spots in Dartmouth, Exmouth, and Torquay — honest reviews of Devon's finest fish and chips for 2026.
Pamela Silkstone
9 April 2026
Best Thai and Southeast Asian Food in Exeter: A Local's Guide
Best Thai and Southeast Asian restaurants in Exeter for 2026 — from Thai Orchid to authentic hidden gems, Vietnamese street food, and budget-friendly tips.
Pamela Silkstone
9 April 2026
Why Online Friends Aren't Enough
We're more digitally connected than ever, yet lonelier than ever. What UK research reveals about why online friendships can't replace in-person connection — and what to do about it.
Pamela Silkstone
9 April 2026
Devon Cheese: A Guide to the County's Best Artisan Cheesemakers
Devon artisan cheese guide 2026: Quicke's cheddar, Sharpham Brie, Beenleigh Blue. Tours, farm shops, pairings and how to build the perfect cheese board.
Pamela Silkstone
9 April 2026
The Etiquette of Modern Friendship: Unwritten Rules Nobody Teaches You
The unspoken social rules of adult friendship in 2026 — from texting etiquette and splitting the bill to RSVPing properly, ghosting, group chats and knowing when it's OK to cancel. A British guide to navigating the grey areas.
Pamela Silkstone
9 April 2026
The Science of Eating Together: Why Sharing Food Makes Us Happier
Oxford research reveals why eating together triggers trust, deepens bonds, and makes us happier. The science behind 800,000 years of communal dining, explained.
Pamela Silkstone
9 April 2026
10 One-Pot Recipes Perfect for Feeding Friends
Simple, crowd-pleasing one-pot recipes that let you spend time with your guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen. From slow cooker pulled pork to a warming dhal, each recipe feeds a crowd with minimal fuss.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
100 Reasons to Have Dinner With a Stranger
From meeting your next best friend to discovering that garlic bread is always better when shared — here are 100 reasons why sitting down to eat with someone you've never met might be the best decision you make this year.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The 30-Day Social Challenge: One Simple Act of Connection Every Day
A practical day-by-day guide to rebuilding your social habits through small, meaningful acts of connection. Backed by habit formation research and designed for real life.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
50 Conversation Starters That Go Beyond 'What Do You Do?'
Fifty great questions to spark real connection, organised by context — from first meetings and dinner parties to catching up with old friends. Because a good question is a gift.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Art of Being a Good Listener (And Why It Makes You a Better Friend)
Most people listen to respond, not to understand. Research shows that active listening is a social superpower that deepens friendships, builds trust, and makes you someone people genuinely want to be around.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Art of Saying No to Plans Without Feeling Guilty
Practical scripts for declining invitations kindly, the psychology behind social guilt, and how to tell the difference between healthy boundaries and unhealthy avoidance. A guide to protecting your energy without losing your friendships.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Autumn in Exeter and Devon: Cosy Days Out and Things to Do
Dartmoor walks, cosy pubs with fires, apple festivals, Bonfire Night and the best autumn restaurants — your complete guide to things to do in Exeter and Devon this autumn.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Axminster and the Jurassic Coast: East Devon's Hidden Treasures
From Axminster's carpet heritage and River Cottage HQ to the Seaton Tramway, Beer village, Branscombe, and the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site — a guide to exploring East Devon's quieter side.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Bank Holiday Ideas in Exeter and Devon That Don't Involve the Sofa
Make the most of every 2026 bank holiday in Exeter and Devon with day trips, pub gardens, coastal walks and Dartmoor picnics sorted by effort level.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Barnstaple: North Devon's Market Town Worth the Drive
A complete guide to Barnstaple — North Devon's ancient capital. The Pannier Market, Butchers Row, the Long Bridge, museums, restaurants, and how to get there from Exeter on the Tarka Line.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
BBQ Season: How to Host the Perfect Summer Gathering
The 2026 British BBQ guide: marinades, veggie options, plancha grilling, sides, drinks and weather tips. Host the perfect summer gathering.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
What It Means to Be a Dinners With Friends Community Host
A complete guide to becoming a DWF Community Host. What the role involves, what you get in return, and how to apply to facilitate social dinners across the UK.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Beer, Branscombe, and the East Devon Coast: A Day Out Guide
Explore the Jurassic Coast east of Exeter. From Beer's quarry caves and fishing beach to Branscombe's National Trust forge and vale brewery, here is your guide to one of Devon's finest coastal day trips.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
A Beginner's Guide to Wine Tasting: What to Know Before Your First Glass
Everything you need to know before your first wine tasting — from the five S's technique to basic grape varieties and the booming English wine scene in Devon and beyond. No snobbery required.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Afternoon Tea and Cream Tea in Exeter and Devon 2026
The best afternoon teas and cream teas in Exeter and Devon for 2026 — from Lympstone Manor to cathedral-view settings and hidden gems. Prices from £5.50.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Art Classes, Workshops, and Creative Spaces in Exeter: A Guide for Every Skill Level
The best art classes, pottery workshops, and creative spaces in Exeter for 2026 — from life drawing and ceramics to paint and sip and structured courses.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Bakeries in Exeter: Where to Find Proper Bread, Pastries, and Cakes
Exeter's best bakeries for 2026 — sourdough specialists, artisan pastry shops, community bakehouses and cafe-bakeries. Where to find proper bread, cakes and pastries.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Board Game Cafés and Gaming Spots in Exeter
Where to play board games in Exeter in 2026 — the South West's first board game cafe, weekly community gaming nights, competitive bars, and more.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Breakfast in Exeter 2026: Fry-Ups, Brunch Spots and Cafés
Exeter's best breakfasts for 2026: award-winning fry-ups, quayside cafés, and top brunch spots. Every one tried, tested, and honestly reviewed.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Brunch Spots in Exeter: A 2026 Guide
The best brunch spots in Exeter for 2026 — from award-winning vegan cafes and bottomless prosecco to all-you-can-eat breakfast bistros.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Best Budgeting Apps to Help You Socialise Without the Guilt
How to use Monzo, Plum, Emma, YNAB, and Snoop to create a dedicated social fund — so you can say yes to dinners without the financial anxiety that follows.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Burger Joints in Exeter: A 2026 Guide
Our guide to the best burgers in Exeter — from award-winning smash burgers and smokehouse BBQ to gastropub patties and plant-based options worth trying.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Cheap Eats in Exeter 2026: Great Food Under £10
The best cheap eats in Exeter under £10 — bao buns, Turkish meze, street food markets, and budget-friendly spots students and locals love. Honestly reviewed.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Cinemas and Film Experiences in Exeter: A 2026 Guide
Every cinema in Exeter for 2026 — from the indie Picturehouse to summer open-air screenings at Powderham Castle and free films on Cathedral Green.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Cocktail Bars in Exeter 2026: 9 Spots Locals Actually Recommend
Exeter's 9 best cocktail bars for 2026 — hidden speakeasies, rooftop terraces, gin parlours, and late-night spots. All tried and tested by locals.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Coffee Shops in Exeter for Working, Chatting, and Catching Up
Exeter's best independent coffee shops in 2026, organised by what you need — long catch-ups, remote working, quick meets, and proper treats.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Best Cookbooks for People Who'd Rather Be Socialising Than Cooking
Seven brilliant cookbooks that make cooking for friends achievable, not aspirational. From Rukmini Iyer's one-tin wonders to Meera Sodha's weeknight feasts, these are the books that get dinner on the table so you can get back to the people at it.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Cooking Classes and Supper Clubs in Exeter and Devon
Best cooking classes and supper clubs in Exeter and Devon for 2026 — from quayside cookery schools to Dartmoor foraging and intimate pop-up dining.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Coworking Spaces in Exeter for Meeting People
Exeter's best coworking spaces in 2026 — pricing, atmosphere, and community compared. Find the right space to beat WFH isolation.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Craft Beer and Taprooms in Exeter: A 2026 Guide
The best craft beer taprooms, breweries, and bottle shops in Exeter for 2026 — from riverside taprooms to micropubs, with honest reviews and prices.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Cycling Routes and Bike-Friendly Cafés in Exeter and Devon
The best cycling routes near Exeter for 2026 — Exe Estuary Trail, Granite Way, Haldon Forest, plus bike cafes, clubs, and hire shops for every level.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Date Night Ideas in Exeter: A 2026 Guide
The best date night ideas in Exeter for 2026 — from rooftop cocktails and candlelit restaurants to escape rooms, cooking classes, and budget-friendly options.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Day Trips From Exeter for Groups of Friends
The best day trips from Exeter for groups in 2026 — beaches, Dartmoor walks, food trips and surf days, with costs and transport options.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Delis and Farm Shops in Exeter and Devon
The best delis and farm shops in Exeter and Devon — from Darts Farm to Magdalen Cheese. Reviews, opening hours, and tips for building the perfect cheese board.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Dessert Spots in Exeter: Cakes, Waffles, and Sweet Treats
Best dessert spots in Exeter for 2026 — artisan brownies, loaded waffles, French patisseries, and late-night treats. Where to go, what to order, and prices.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Dog-Friendly Pubs, Cafés, and Walks in Exeter
The best dog-friendly pubs, cafes, and walks in Exeter for 2026 — from canal towpaths and forest trails to pubs with treats, water bowls, and doggy ice cream.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Seafood Restaurants in Exeter and Devon 2026: Honest Reviews
Exeter and Devon's best seafood restaurants for 2026 — Michelin-recognised dining, floating estuary barges, and harbourside gems. All honestly reviewed.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Fishing Spots in Devon: Sea, River, and Reservoir
From charter boats off Dartmouth to wild brown trout on Dartmoor reservoirs, our guide to the best fishing in Devon — and why casting a line with someone is one of the finest ways to build a friendship.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Food Markets and Street Food in Exeter and Devon: A 2026 Guide
The best food markets and street food in Exeter and Devon for 2026 — farmers' markets, festival dates, Topsham, Totnes, Barnstaple and Dart's Farm.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Free Things to Do in Exeter: A 2026 Guide
The best free things to do in Exeter for 2026 — museums, guided tours, riverside walks, parkrun, street art, parks and more. No spending required.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Gardens and Country Estates to Visit Near Exeter
The best gardens and country estates near Exeter — Killerton, Knightshayes, Powderham Castle, RHS Rosemoor, Dartington Hall and more.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Gastropubs in Exeter and Devon: A 2026 Guide
Best gastropubs in Exeter and Devon for 2026 — from THE PIG-at Combe's 25-mile menu to The Nobody Inn's 240 whiskies. Reviews, prices, and booking tips.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Glamping and Unusual Stays in Devon
From luxury safari tents and treehouses to geodesic domes and shepherd's huts, here are Devon's best unusual stays for groups — with prices, capacity, facilities, and the nearest pub.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Golf Courses in Devon for a Social Round
The best golf courses in Devon for a day out with friends — from Exeter Golf & Country Club to Saunton's championship links and Bovey Castle on Dartmoor. Green fees, difficulty, settings, and why golf is a four-hour conversation disguised as a sport.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Gyms, Yoga Studios, and Fitness Classes in Exeter for Meeting People
The best gyms, yoga studios, and fitness classes in Exeter for 2026 — from budget 24/7 gyms and heated yoga pods to climbing walls and CrossFit boxes.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Horse Riding and Equestrian Centres in Devon
A guide to the best horse riding experiences in Devon — from Dartmoor moorland hacks to Woolacombe beach gallops. Real riding centres, prices, what to expect, and why riding together is one of the best bonding experiences going.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Hotels and Places to Stay in Exeter: A 2026 Guide
The best hotels in Exeter for 2026 — from boutique luxury at Hotel du Vin and Southernhay House to budget hostels, with honest reviews, prices, and local tips.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Ice Cream and Gelato in Exeter and Devon 2026
The best ice cream and gelato in Exeter and Devon — artisan scoops on the Quay, award-winning farm parlours, and hidden gems across the county. Tried and tested.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Best Independent Shops and Makers in Exeter Worth Supporting
Discover Exeter's best independent shops — from Gandy Street's craft makers to McCoys Arcade's vintage finds and Fore Street's ethical fashion boutiques.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Indian and Asian Restaurants in Exeter: A 2026 Guide
Our honest guide to the best Indian and Asian restaurants in Exeter — from South Indian dosas and Nepalese momos to Korean bibimbap, Japanese ramen, and Thai classics.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Italian Restaurants in Exeter: Honestly Reviewed for 2026
From Il Grano's handmade pasta to cathedral-view dining and proper Neapolitan pizza — every Italian restaurant in Exeter, tried, tested, and honestly reviewed.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Late Night Food in Exeter: Where to Eat After Midnight
Where to eat after midnight in Exeter — kebab shops open until 4am, late-night pizza, and 24-hour chains. Hours, prices, and the best late-night orders.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Live Music Venues and Open Mic Nights in Exeter
Your 2026 guide to Exeter's best live music venues — from legendary indie basements and jazz bars to open mic nights and free gigs across the city.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Mexican and Latin American Food in Exeter
The best Mexican and Latin American restaurants in Exeter for 2026 — from authentic tacos to Caribbean jerk and Latin sharing plates.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Museums and Galleries in Devon Worth a Visit
From RAMM in Exeter to Torre Abbey in Torquay and the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum on campus, our guide to Devon's best museums and galleries — with entry prices, cafe quality, and why every visit is a conversation waiting to happen.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Photography Spots in Exeter and Devon
The best photography spots in Exeter and Devon for 2026 — from the Cathedral and Gandy Street to Dartmoor, the Jurassic Coast, and photo walk tips.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Pizza in Exeter: A 2026 Guide
The best pizza in Exeter for 2026 — from indie sourdough at The Flat to giant slices at On The Waterfront and Neapolitan at Franco Manca.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Podcasts About Friendship, Loneliness, and Connection
From No Such Thing as a Fish to Griefcast, our pick of the best podcasts that explore friendship, loneliness, and what it really means to connect — plus how to turn listening into a genuinely social experience.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Pub Quizzes in Exeter: Where to Test Your Knowledge With Mates
The best pub quizzes in Exeter for 2026 — Monday to Sunday, every budget. Venues, times, formats, and tips for first-timers who want to join a team.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Pubs in Exeter for a Proper Catch-Up With Mates
The 15+ best pubs in Exeter for 2026 — cosy locals, quayside beer gardens, craft taprooms, and proper pub grub, organised by what you actually need.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Pubs With Rooms in Devon: Stay the Night After a Great Meal
The best Devon pubs with rooms for 2026: Dartmoor inns, coastal taverns and village locals where dinner becomes a sleepover and nobody drives home.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Rooftop and Outdoor Dining in Exeter: Where to Eat Outside in 2026
Best rooftop bars and outdoor dining in Exeter for 2026 — cathedral-view cocktails, quayside terraces, and hidden beer gardens. Where to eat al fresco.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Running Clubs and parkruns in Exeter and Devon
Your complete guide to parkruns and running clubs in Exeter and Devon — free 5k events, beginner groups, and the clubs where running becomes friendship.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Spa Days in Devon 2026: Prices, Reviews and Where to Book
From Bovey Castle on Dartmoor to the clifftop Cary Arms in Babbacombe — Devon's best spa days with honest reviews, prices from £45, and group booking tips.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Sports Bars and Places to Watch Live Sport in Exeter: A 2026 Guide
The best sports bars and pubs to watch live sport in Exeter for 2026 — from Ludo's rooftop to Sandy Park matchdays and 50-screen venues.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Steak Restaurants in Exeter: A 2026 Guide
Best steak restaurants in Exeter for 2026 — 30-day aged cuts, charcoal grills, and premium Black Angus. Honest reviews, prices, cut guides, and booking tips.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Sunday Roasts in Exeter and Devon: A 2026 Guide
Best Sunday roasts in Exeter and Devon for 2026 — from canal-side pubs to country inns with legendary gravy. Tried, tested, and honestly reviewed.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Swimming Spots and Wild Swimming in Devon: Rivers, Lidos, and the Sea
The best wild swimming spots in Devon for 2026 — Dartmoor river pools, lidos, sea swimming, safety tips, and the community groups that make it social.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Takeaway in Exeter: A Local's Guide to Ordering In
Best takeaways in Exeter for 2026 — Indian, Chinese, Thai, pizza, fish and chips, and kebabs. What to order, delivery options, and tips for a perfect night in.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Theatre and Comedy in Exeter: A 2026 Guide
Exeter's best theatre and comedy in 2026 — from the Northcott and Barnfield to the Comedy Festival, improv nights and outdoor shows.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best UK Wellness Apps for a Calmer Social Life
The best UK wellness and mindfulness apps for 2026 — honest reviews of Headspace, Calm, Balance, Finch and more, plus free alternatives.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants in Exeter: A 2026 Guide
Our honest guide to the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Exeter for 2026 — from 35-year-old veggie institutions to new plant-based cafes and brunch spots.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Walking Routes Around Exeter and Devon for Socialising
The best walks near Exeter for socialising in 2026 — flat canal strolls, estuary trails, Dartmoor tors, each with a pub or cafe at the finish.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Water Sports in Devon: Surfing, SUP, Kayaking, and More
A guide to Devon's best water sports — from surfing at Croyde and Woolacombe to SUP on the Exe Estuary, kayaking the River Dart, coasteering at Hele Bay, and sailing from Salcombe. Real providers, prices, and the social case for getting on the water.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Best Wine Bars in Exeter: A 2026 Guide
The best wine bars in Exeter for 2026 — hidden cellars, sommelier-led tastings, vineyard tours, and the places locals go to linger over a good glass.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Bideford and Appledore: North Devon's Creative Coast
Explore Bideford's medieval Long Bridge, Burton Art Gallery, and Pannier Market, then discover Appledore — one of Devon's prettiest villages with its maritime heritage, annual Book Festival, and outstanding pubs and restaurants.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Birdwatching in Devon: The Best Spots for Nature Lovers
From the avocets on the Exe Estuary to the puffins of Lundy Island, our guide to the best birdwatching spots in Devon — and why the birding community is one of the most welcoming you will find.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Breathwork for Social Anxiety: Simple Techniques That Actually Help
Practical breathwork techniques to calm social anxiety before and during events. From box breathing to the physiological sigh, backed by Stanford research and UK resources.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Budleigh Salterton: A Quiet Day Out With Big Charm
Escape the noise and rediscover slow living in Budleigh Salterton. From its famous pebble beach and the Otter Estuary to Fairlynch Museum and the village of East Budleigh, here's how to plan the perfect restorative day trip from Exeter.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Business Lunch Is Back: Best Spots in Exeter for Working Over Food
Discover the best business lunch spots in Exeter for 2026 — from The Ivy and Hotel du Vin to hidden gems like Harry's and Stage, with pricing, private dining, and booking tips.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Camping in Devon: The Best Campsites for Groups
Best campsites in Devon for groups 2026: campfire-friendly Dartmoor pitches, clifftop coastal sites, glamping and practical tips for group camping trips.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Chagford, Moretonhampstead, and the Eastern Dartmoor Villages
Discover the prettiest villages on eastern Dartmoor. From Chagford's 1930s lido and artisan shops to Castle Drogo, Fingle Bridge, and the White Hart in Moretonhampstead, here is your guide to a day exploring Devon's moorland gems.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Christmas in Exeter: The Ultimate 2026 Festive Guide
Your complete 2026 guide to Christmas in Exeter — Cathedral Market, lights switch-on, panto, carol services, festive dining, ice skating and the cosiest pubs.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Clovelly: Devon's Most Unique Village
Discover Clovelly, the privately-owned North Devon village with no cars, cobbled streets, and rescue donkeys. From the harbour and Red Lion Hotel to Clovelly Court Gardens and the fisherman's cottage museum, here is everything you need to know before you visit.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Cold Water Therapy and Connection: Why Devon's Wild Swimmers Swear By It
The science behind cold water therapy — from vagus nerve stimulation to endorphin release — and why Devon's wild swimming community is one of the most powerful ways to build real friendships.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
How Community Gardens and Allotments Build Friendships
With over 100,000 people on UK allotment waiting lists and growing evidence that gardening combats loneliness, here's how growing food together builds the friendships we're all missing.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Couples Who Socialise Together: Why Shared Friendships Strengthen Relationships
Research shows couples with shared friendships report higher relationship satisfaction. Discover why the double date is making a comeback and how socialising together builds stronger partnerships.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Crediton, Tiverton, and Mid Devon: The Towns Worth Exploring Beyond Exeter
Crediton and Tiverton guide: Mid Devon's market towns with castle, canal, cider mill, cheese tours and community spirit. Day trips from Exeter.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Cross-Generational Friendships: Why Your Best Mate Doesn't Have to Be Your Age
We default to same-age friendships, but research shows intergenerational connections reduce loneliness, challenge ageism, and make us better humans. Here's why — and where to find them.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Dartmoor's Ancient History: Stone Circles, Tors, and Legends
Explore Dartmoor's prehistoric landscape — from Grimspound's Bronze Age settlement and Merrivale's stone rows to Scorhill stone circle, Bowerman's Nose, and the legends of the Hairy Hands and the Hound of the Baskervilles.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Dartmouth: A Foodie's Day Trip From Exeter
With Mitch Tonks' Seahorse, Rockfish on the river, a historic Tudor inn, and a steam railway to get you there — Dartmouth is Devon's ultimate food destination. Here's how to plan the perfect day trip.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Dating in Exeter: A Realistic Guide to Meeting People in 2026
An honest guide to dating in Exeter for 2026 — what works on the apps, where to meet people in real life, best first date spots and small-city advice.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Dawlish and Teignmouth: Seaside Charm Just Down the Line
Dawlish and Teignmouth day trip guide: Brunel's scenic railway, black swans, coastal walks, fish and chips and the Arts Quarter. Easy and cheap from Exeter.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
A Day Out in Sidmouth: Devon's Regency Gem
From Jacob's Ladder Beach to Connaught Gardens, independent shops to the famous Folk Festival — here's everything you need to plan a perfect day out in Sidmouth, Devon's most charming coastal town.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Death of the Third Place — and How to Bring It Back
Britain is losing its pubs, libraries, and community centres at an alarming rate. Here's what the decline of 'third places' means for our social lives — and what we can do to rebuild them.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Devon's Best Farm Experiences: From Lambing to Harvest
Devon is a farming county at heart. From hands-on lambing at Pennywell Farm to cheese tours at Quicke's and fruit picking near Topsham, here are the best farm experiences in Devon for groups, families, and friends.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Devon's Best Festivals Beyond Exeter: A County-Wide Guide
Devon's best festivals for 2026 — Sidmouth Folk, Beautiful Days, Devon County Show, Exmouth Festival and more, with dates, prices and camping tips.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Devon's Best Nature Reserves: A Wildlife Lover's Guide
From coastal headlands to ancient woodland and freshwater lakes, discover Devon's finest nature reserves. A practical guide to what you will see, when to visit, and why nature is better with friends.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Devon Cider Guide: The Best Orchards, Taprooms and Cider Trails
Devon's best cider farms, taprooms, and orchard trails for 2026 — Sandford Orchards, Sam's Cider, Green Valley, plus festivals, tastings, and DIY trails.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Devon Countryside in Bloom: Best Wildflower Walks by Season
From bluebell carpets and wild daffodils to foxgloves on Dartmoor and purple heather in autumn, discover Devon's wildflower calendar and the best walks to see each seasonal display.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Devon's Food and Drink Heritage: A Love Letter to Local Produce
From Devonshire cream teas to Brixham crab, Quicke's cheddar to Sharpham wine, Devon's food heritage runs deep. A guide to the producers, farm shops and traditions that make this county one of England's finest food destinations.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Devon's Literary Connections: From Agatha Christie to Ted Hughes
Devon has inspired some of the greatest writers in the English language. From Agatha Christie's Torquay to Ted Hughes's North Tawton, Coleridge's Ottery St Mary, and the Lorna Doone valley on Exmoor — a guide to Devon's literary landscape.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Devon Staycation Ideas: Why You Don't Need to Leave the County
Devon staycation ideas 2026: beach weekends, Dartmoor adventures, foodie circuits and wellness retreats with budget breakdowns and social tips.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
How to Have Difficult Conversations With Friends (Without Destroying the Friendship)
Most friendships don't end with a dramatic blow-up — they end with avoidance. Here's how to raise the awkward stuff honestly, navigate conflict like an adult, and come out the other side closer.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Dinner Party Themes That Actually Work (And Won't Make Your Friends Cringe)
From Italian nights to dumpling-making parties, these achievable dinner party themes enhance your evening without overcomplicating it. Practical ideas for what to cook, what guests can bring, and how to set the mood.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Dinner Table Rules: How Shared Meals Create Shared Values
The dinner table is where we learn to be social beings. From turn-taking and sharing to gratitude and generosity, the rules of the table shape the values we carry through life.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Eating Seasonally in Devon: A Month-by-Month Guide to Local Produce
What's in season in Devon each month, from forced rhubarb in January to game in December. A complete guide to eating locally and seasonally in one of England's finest food counties.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Escape Rooms, Axe Throwing, and Unusual Things to Do in Exeter
Exeter's best escape rooms, axe throwing, trampolining, and laser tag for 2026 — real venues, honest prices, and why shared challenges build bonds.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Exeter's Best Charity Shops: A Treasure Hunter's Guide
Best charity shops in Exeter by area — South Street, Sidwell Street, Heavitree, Cowick Street and the Thrift Warehouse. Routes, tips and a crawl itinerary.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Exeter's Best Markets: A Complete Guide to Shopping Local
Guide to Exeter's best markets — Quayside Farmers' Market, Fore Street Flea, Cathedral Christmas Market, Brillsville and more. Dates, times and tips.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Exeter's Best Neighbourhoods: Where to Live, Eat and Hang Out
A local's guide to Exeter's best areas: Magdalen Road, St Leonard's, Topsham, Heavitree, Gandy Street and more. Where to live, eat, drink, and build a social life.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Blitz and Beyond: How Exeter Was Rebuilt After World War II
How the 1942 Baedeker Blitz devastated Exeter and shaped the city you see today. What was lost, how it was rebuilt, and where to find the traces that remain.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Exeter Cathedral: A Visitor's Guide to One of England's Greatest Medieval Buildings
Plan your visit to Exeter Cathedral — admission prices, guided tours, evensong times, roof tours and the world's longest Gothic vaulted ceiling.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Exeter Charities and Community Groups Making a Real Difference in 2026
Discover Exeter's best charities and community groups in 2026 — from homelessness support and food banks to wildlife conservation, with practical volunteering info.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Exeter on a Budget: How to Enjoy the City Without Breaking the Bank
Cheap eats, free activities, happy hours and money-saving tips for enjoying Exeter on a budget — your complete guide to living well without spending a fortune.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Exeter's Quay: From Medieval Trading Port to Social Hub
Exeter Quay's 800-year story: the feud that killed the port, Britain's first pound-lock canal, and why it's now the city's best social spot. History, restaurants, walks and activities.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Exeter's Street Art and Murals: A Self-Guided Walking Tour
Self-guided walking tour of Exeter's best street art and murals — all 10 InExeter commissions, Tudor portraits, galleries and the climate mural. Free.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Exeter's Underground Passages: The Hidden Tunnels Beneath the City
Complete visitor guide to Exeter's Underground Passages: medieval tunnels, opening times, prices, booking tips, plus the Guildhall, Tucker's Hall and more.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Exmouth: Beaches, Bars, and the Best Day Out Near Exeter
Exmouth day out guide: Jurassic Coast beaches, floating restaurants, estuary cycling, watersports and the best bars. Plan the perfect trip from Exeter.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Expat Friendships: Making Connections When You're Far From Home
Moving to the UK from abroad brings unique social challenges. Discover how to navigate cultural differences, overcome expat loneliness, and build genuine friendships in your new home.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Exploring Dartmoor: A Social Guide to Devon's Wild Heart
Dartmoor is not just for solo hikers. From pub walks and wild swimming to letterboxing and the best Dartmoor pubs worth the drive, here's how to experience Devon's national park with friends.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Family-Friendly Exeter: The Best Things to Do With Kids
The best family-friendly things to do in Exeter with kids in 2026 — free museums, underground passages, quayside adventures, theme parks, and rainy day options.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
What Your Favourite Restaurant Order Says About You (A Fun Guide)
From the person who always orders steak to the menu agoniser who needs ten more minutes, a light-hearted look at what your dining habits reveal about your personality — backed by actual psychology.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Food Cultures That Bring People Together: What the UK Can Learn
From Italian aperitivo to Ethiopian injera, cultures use food as social technology. What Britain has lost and how communal eating can rebuild connection.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
A Foodie's Guide to Topsham: Exeter's Best-Kept Secret
Topsham food guide 2026: Michelin-listed restaurants, Bib Gourmand seafood, Darts Farm and estuary walks. Plan the perfect foodie day from Exeter.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Foraging in Devon: A Beginner's Guide to Finding (and Sharing) Wild Food
A seasonal guide to foraging in Devon, from wild garlic on Dartmoor to samphire on the coast. Where to forage, what to look for in each season, the legal rules, real Devon foraging courses, and why foraging with friends is one of the best adventures you can have.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Forest Bathing in Devon: The Japanese Art of Healing in the Woods
Discover shinrin-yoku — the Japanese practice of forest bathing — and where to experience it in Devon, from Haldon Forest to Dartmoor. Plus the science of why walking silently in woods together builds deeper friendships.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Freelancing and Loneliness: Building a Social Life Without a Workplace
With 4.4 million self-employed workers in the UK, freelance loneliness is a growing crisis. Here's how to build the social connections that offices provide passively — when you're doing it all on your own.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Friend Who Always Organises (And Why They Need You to Step Up)
Every friend group has one person who makes all the plans. The invisible labour of social organisation is real — and if nobody shares the load, the organiser eventually stops. Here's how to fix it.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Friendship After Divorce: Rebuilding Your Social Life When Everything Changes
Divorce does not just split a couple — it splits a social network. With 42% of UK marriages ending in divorce, here is how to navigate the friendship fallout, rebuild your social life, and find connection again.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Friendship Audit: How to Assess and Invest in Your Social Circle
A structured, compassionate approach to evaluating your friendships — not to cull, but to invest wisely. Use Dunbar's layers, honest reflection, and practical exercises to build a social circle that energises you.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Friendship and Chronic Illness: Staying Connected When Your Body Has Other Plans
Over 15 million people in the UK live with long-term health conditions. Here's how chronic illness reshapes friendships — and what real connection looks like when energy is limited.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Friendship in Your 20s: The Decade That Shapes Your Social Future
Your 20s are the golden age of friendship — but also when the cracks start showing. Why this decade matters more than any other for your social life, and how to be intentional before it's too late.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Friendship in Your 40s: The Reinvention Years
Your 40s are a friendship crossroads — kids, careers, divorce, relocation. But midlife is also when you know yourself well enough to build the friendships you actually want. Here's how.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Friendship in Your 60s and Beyond: Why It's Never Too Late
Retirement can be socially devastating — or an extraordinary opportunity. Research on loneliness in over-60s, practical tips for building community, and why the friends you make now might be the most important of your life.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Friendship Love Languages: How Different People Show They Care
Adapting Gary Chapman's love languages framework for friendship. Why your friends show love differently, how to recognise their style, and what to do when friendship languages clash.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Future of Friendship: How Technology, Culture, and Community Are Evolving
From AI companions to VR social spaces, the way we connect is changing fast. But the counter-trend back to real-life gatherings is even more powerful. Here's where friendship is heading — and why the future is intentional.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Gandy Street and the Cathedral Quarter: Exeter's Historic Heart
Your guide to Gandy Street and Cathedral Quarter Exeter: indie shops, cocktail bars, markets on the Green, RAMM galleries, and the best places to eat and drink.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Great British Pub: Why It Matters More Than Ever
A love letter to the British pub — its history, its crisis, and why this irreplaceable social institution deserves to survive. From community-owned locals to Devon micropubs, the pub is fighting back.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Grief, Loss, and Friendship: How Connection Helps You Heal
Grief can be profoundly isolating. Here's how friendship — and the simple act of sharing a meal or sitting with someone — can help you through the hardest times.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Gut-Brain Connection: How What You Eat Affects Your Social Confidence
The science of the microbiome-brain axis and its surprising effect on mood, anxiety, and social behaviour. Research-backed dietary tips for better social energy.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Hidden Cost of Hustle Culture on Your Friendships
UK workers are clocking more hours, running side hustles, and burning out — but nobody talks about the friendships they're losing along the way. Here's how to protect your social life from work creep.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The History of the Dinner Party: From Roman Feasts to Modern Supper Clubs
A fascinating journey through the history of social dining — from the Roman convivium to medieval banquets, Georgian excess, Victorian etiquette, 1970s fondue, and the modern supper club revival. Humans have always gathered around food.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Honiton: Antiques, Lace, and East Devon Charm
Discover Honiton, East Devon's antique capital. From the famous High Street antique shops and Honiton Lace to Allhallows Museum, the Otter Valley, and the best pubs and restaurants — plus how to get there from Exeter in 20 minutes.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
How Gratitude Practices Can Transform Your Friendships
The science is clear: grateful people have stronger, more lasting friendships. Here's how simple gratitude practices — from journaling to dinner-table rituals — can deepen the connections that matter most.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
How Music Brings People Together (And the Best Places to Hear It in Exeter)
How music bonds people, plus the best live music venues in Exeter for 2026 — from the Cavern and Phoenix to Powderham Castle concerts, choirs, and open mic nights.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
How Pets Bring People Together: The Social Life of Animal Owners
From dog walks to veterinary waiting rooms, pets are Britain's greatest social catalyst. Explore the research behind why animal owners make more friends, build stronger communities, and have conversations the rest of us are too British to start.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
How to Be a Better Friend: 10 Small Things That Make a Big Difference
Friendship isn't a feeling — it's a practice. Ten simple, actionable ways to show up better for the people you care about, backed by research on what actually keeps friendships strong.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
How to Build a Monthly Supper Club With Your Friends
A step-by-step guide to starting a regular supper club. From choosing a format and managing guest lists to keeping it going long-term, here is everything you need to guarantee monthly social time.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
How to Host a Dinner Party When You're Not a Natural Host
You don't need to be a chef or have a perfect home. Here's a practical, no-pressure guide to hosting a dinner party that deepens friendships and feels genuinely fun.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
How to Make Friends at Events When You Don't Know Anyone
Practical, research-backed strategies for walking into a room full of strangers and leaving with real connections. From arriving early to finding the other person who's alone.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
How to Manage Social Anxiety When You Actually Want to Go Out
Practical strategies, UK resources, and honest advice for people who genuinely want to connect but freeze up when it is time to walk through the door.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
How to Pair Food and Drink Like a Pro (Without Being Pretentious)
A practical, no-nonsense guide to pairing wine, beer, cider and non-alcoholic drinks with food. Rules of thumb that actually work, when to break them, and how the right pairing elevates any dinner.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
How to Set Boundaries Without Losing Your Friends
The people-pleasing trap is real — saying yes to everything until you burn out and withdraw. Here's how to set healthy social boundaries that actually strengthen your friendships.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
How to Volunteer in Exeter: A Guide to Giving Back and Making Friends
How to volunteer in Exeter in 2026 — from parkrun and National Trust to food banks and arts venues, with sign-up links and what to expect.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
How Volunteering Changed My Social Life: Real Stories From the Community
From food banks to community gardens, volunteering is one of the most powerful — and overlooked — ways to build genuine friendships. Real stories from people across the UK who found connection through giving their time.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Introducing Dinners With Friends Hosts
We're opening the door to people across the UK who want to host social dining experiences. Whether you want to facilitate a dinner or run your own events, there's now a way to do it with us.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Power of Journaling for Better Friendships and Social Confidence
How journaling can transform your social life — from processing social anxiety to tracking friendship patterns. Research-backed prompts, the best apps and notebooks, and why understanding yourself helps you show up better for others.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Joy of Potluck: Why Bring-a-Dish Dinners Are Making a Comeback
Bring-a-dish dinners are back. Why potluck suppers are thriving in the UK, how to organise a brilliant one, and the psychology behind why everyone contributes more when everyone contributes.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Kingsbridge, Salcombe, and the South Hams: Devon's Riviera
Explore the South Hams, Devon's foodie and sailing heartland. From Kingsbridge's estuary markets and Cookworthy Museum to Salcombe's seafood, Dartington Estate, and the South Devon coast path, here is your guide to Devon's riviera.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
LGBTQ+ Social Life in Exeter: A 2026 Guide
Your complete guide to LGBTQ+ social life in Exeter for 2026 — Pride, Queer Fest, The Vaults, community groups, inclusive sport and safe social spaces.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Loneliness of New Parents — and How Shared Meals Can Help
62% of new parents in the UK report feeling lonely. From NCT groups to meal trains, here's why new parenthood is so isolating — and how the ancient practice of bringing food can help rebuild connection.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Long-Distance Friendships: How to Stay Close When You Live Far Apart
Geographical distance doesn't have to mean emotional distance. Research-backed strategies for maintaining meaningful friendships across miles, time zones, and busy lives.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Magdalen Road Exeter: The Complete Guide to the City's Best Street
Everything on Magdalen Road, Exeter: bakeries, tasting menus, indie shops, wine bars, coffee spots, and the Christmas fair. A local's guide to why it's special.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Meditation Groups in Exeter and Devon: Finding Stillness Together
Find the best meditation groups and mindfulness classes in Exeter and Devon for 2026 — Buddhist centres, secular circles, silent retreats, and outdoor wellbeing walks.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Military Spouse Social Life: Building Community When You Keep Moving
Military families move every 2-3 years, constantly rebuilding social networks. Here's how to build meaningful friendships quickly — and maintain them through the next posting.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Mindful Eating, Mindful Connecting: How Slowing Down at the Table Changes Everything
The intersection of mindfulness and social dining — why rushing through meals kills connection, and how being present at the table can transform both your health and your relationships.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Networking Without the Cringe: How to Build Genuine Professional Connections
Why networking feels awful for most UK professionals and how to make it feel like actual socialising. Real tips for building genuine connections, from Exeter networking groups to LinkedIn done right.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Neurodivergent Socialising: Building Connections That Work for Your Brain
Socialising when your brain works differently — ADHD, autism, and the case for structured, predictable social formats that let neurodivergent adults connect without burning out.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
What to Do When You're New to Exeter: A 2026 Starter Guide
Just moved to Exeter in 2026? Your complete starter guide — best neighbourhoods, where to eat, how to meet people, transport, and making the city feel like home.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
New Year in Exeter: How to Start 2027 With Connection, Not Just Resolutions
Start 2027 right with social habits that last — parkrun, Silent Book Club, Dry January socials and more. Your guide to New Year in Exeter beyond resolutions.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The North Devon Coast: A Day Trip Guide From Exeter
Plan a perfect North Devon day trip from Exeter — surfing at Croyde, Woolacombe's golden beach, Ilfracombe harbour dining, coasteering, and the best pubs along the way.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Okehampton and West Devon: Gateway to Dartmoor
A guide to Okehampton — Dartmoor's northern gateway. Okehampton Castle, the Granite Way, the Museum of Dartmoor Life, walking Yes Tor and High Willhays, and how to get there on the restored Dartmoor Line.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Over 50 and Social in Exeter: Groups, Activities, and Places to Connect
Groups, activities and communities for over-50s in Exeter — U3A, walking clubs, bowls, Men in Sheds, social dining and more for 2026.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Rainy Day Ideas in Exeter: What to Do When the Weather's Rubbish
The best rainy day activities in Exeter — underground passages, indie cinemas, board game cafes, escape rooms, climbing walls and cosy pubs worth the weather.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Rise of Social Prescribing: How Your GP Might Send You to Dinner
Social prescribing is transforming the NHS — GPs are referring patients to community activities instead of medication. With 1.3 million referrals a year and growing, the health service is literally prescribing friendship.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
River Kayaking and Canoeing in Devon: A Beginner's Guide
Where to kayak and canoe in Devon — Exeter Canal, River Dart, sea kayaking from Exmouth, plus hire centres, clubs, and beginner tips for 2026.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Roman Exeter: Exploring the Ancient History Beneath Your Feet
Explore Roman Exeter's heritage — Isca Dumnoniorum's legionary fortress, surviving city walls, the buried bathhouse and RAMM's free collection.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Run Your Own Events as a Dinners With Friends Host Partner
Already running workshops, supper clubs, or social experiences? Here's how to list your events on our platform, keep 80% of ticket sales, and reach a community that's actively looking for what you do.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Salcombe: Devon's Coastal Jewel for a Special Day Out
A guide to Salcombe — Devon's most beautiful estuary town. Beaches, seafood restaurants, boat hire, and coastal walks that make it perfect for a special group outing.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Science of First Impressions: How to Make People Want to Know You
What psychology research reveals about first impressions — they form in milliseconds, they're stubborn to change, but they can be intentionally shaped. Practical tips backed by Princeton and Harvard studies.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Science of Laughter: Why Funny Friends Are Good for Your Health
Laughter triggers endorphins, reduces stress, and strengthens social bonds. The neuroscience behind why the funniest evenings with friends are also the healthiest — and how to bring more laughter into your life.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Seasonal Affective Disorder and Your Social Life: How to Stay Connected Through the Dark Months
SAD affects over 2 million UK adults every winter. Here's how the dark months drain your social motivation — and practical, evidence-based ways to keep showing up for the people who matter.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Sleep, Stress, and Socialising: Why Rest Is the Secret to Better Friendships
The science of how poor sleep destroys your social life — and UK products and apps that can help you rest better, show up more, and be a better friend.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Slow Food, Slow Friendships: Why Taking Your Time Matters
The Slow Food movement taught us to resist the rush at the table. The same philosophy applies to friendship. Why slowing down is the secret to deeper, more meaningful connection.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
How Social Media Creates the Illusion of Connection (And What to Do About It)
Why social media makes us feel connected without actually connecting, what Dunbar's research reveals about online friendships, and practical strategies for turning digital habits into real relationships.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
A Social Self-Care Toolkit: 10 UK Products and Apps Worth Trying
From calming teas to habit trackers, here are 10 products and apps that genuinely support your social wellbeing — reviewed with real prices and honest takes.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Social Side of Sobriety: Navigating Friendships When You Stop Drinking
The sober curious movement is reshaping British social life. Here's how to navigate friendships, pub culture, and real connection when you reduce or stop drinking alcohol.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Solo in Exeter: The Best Things to Do on Your Own (That Might Lead to Friendship)
Best things to do alone in Exeter — solo-friendly cafes, museums, cinema, parkrun, classes, dining and book clubs. A guide for anyone flying solo.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Sound Baths in Devon: The Wellness Trend Worth Trying With Friends
What sound baths actually are, the science behind them, and where to try one in Devon. A guide for the curious and the sceptical — plus why going with a friend makes the whole experience better.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Spring in Devon: Shaking Off Winter and Getting Social Again
From bluebell walks in Ashclyst Forest to the Devon County Show, here's how to use spring's fresh energy to restart your social life after a long winter indoors.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Stargazing in Devon: The Best Dark Sky Spots for a Night Out With Friends
The best stargazing spots in Devon for 2026 — Exmoor Dark Sky Reserve, Dartmoor tors, meteor showers, plus what to bring and when to go.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
A Student's Guide to Social Life in Exeter Beyond the University Bubble
A student's guide to social life in Exeter beyond campus — city pubs, arts venues, community sports, volunteering and more for 2026.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Summer in Devon: The Best Things to Do in 2026
From golden beaches and wild swimming on Dartmoor to festivals, outdoor cinema, and the best beer gardens — your month-by-month guide to making the most of summer in Devon.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Table Manners for the Modern Age: What's Changed and What Still Matters
A relaxed, non-judgemental guide to dining etiquette in 2026. What the old rules got right, what we can let go of, and why good manners are really about making everyone comfortable.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Tavistock: Devon's Stannary Town on the Edge of Dartmoor
A guide to Tavistock — a UNESCO World Heritage town on the western edge of Dartmoor. The Pannier Market, Bedford Square, Tavistock Abbey ruins, the Cornish Arms gastropub, and walks into the moor.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Teacher Burnout and Social Life: How to Protect Your Friendships When Work Takes Everything
Teaching is one of the most socially demanding yet isolating professions. Here's how to protect your friendships and social life when burnout threatens to consume everything outside the classroom.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Digital Detox Dinner: Why Putting Your Phone Away Changes Everything
UK adults spend over 4.5 hours online daily and check their phones 159 times a day. Here's why going phone-free at the dinner table transforms conversation, connection, and how you feel about the people around you.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Sunday Reset: Preparing Your Mind for a Better Social Week
How to use the Sunday reset trend to plan your social week, reduce anxiety about seeing people, and build routines that keep your friendships alive.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Totnes: Devon's Quirkiest Town and Why You Should Visit
The complete guide to Totnes, Devon's fiercely independent market town. Friday market, Dartington Hall, where to eat, and why it's worth the 30-minute train ride from Exeter.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
5 UK Mental Health Resources Every Social Adult Should Know
A practical guide to five essential UK mental health resources — from crisis helplines to peer support groups — because sometimes connection needs professional backup.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Ultimate Christmas Dinner Guide: Stress-Free Entertaining for Friends
A complete Christmas dinner guide for hosting friends, with a make-ahead timeline, smart supermarket shortcuts from M&S and Waitrose, wine pairings, budget table settings, and vegetarian alternatives. Because Friendsmas deserves to be just as special.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Ultimate Devon Road Trip: A 3-Day Itinerary With Friends
A complete 3-day Devon road trip itinerary for groups of friends — from Dartmoor wild swims and pub lunches to the South Devon coast and North Devon surf beaches, with real places to stay, eat, and explore.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Walking Therapy: Why a Stroll With a Friend Is Better Than Any App
The science of walk-and-talk therapy, why side-by-side conversation removes social pressure, and how a simple walk with a friend can transform your mental health.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
A Walking Tour of Exeter's Hidden Gems: The Things Most People Miss
Self-guided walking tour of Exeter's hidden gems: Parliament Street, Northernhay Gardens, Rougemont Castle, Tucker's Hall, and the Quay. Free route with timings.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
A Weekend in Exeter: The Perfect 48-Hour Itinerary
The perfect weekend in Exeter — hour-by-hour 48-hour itinerary covering the Cathedral, Underground Passages, Gandy Street, Quayside, RAMM and Topsham.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Whale and Dolphin Watching in Devon: A Seasonal Guide
Devon's coast is home to dolphins, porpoises, and occasional whales. Discover the best headlands, boat trips, and months for cetacean watching — and why wildlife spotting is better shared.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
What Happens When a Whole Town Eats Together: The Big Lunch and Community Meals
From the Eden Project's Big Lunch to FoodCycle and community fridges, millions of Brits are rediscovering the power of eating together. How community meals build belonging — and what they teach us about sharing a table with strangers.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
What's On in Exeter 2026: Best Events, Festivals, and Things to Do
Complete 2026 events guide for Exeter: festivals, markets, concerts at Powderham, food events, comedy, and seasonal things to do month by month.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Why British People Struggle to Make Plans (And How to Fix It)
The uniquely British phenomenon of vague plan-making, why we say 'we should definitely get together' and never follow through, and practical strategies for actually pinning people down.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Why Cooking for Someone Is an Act of Love (And How to Start)
You do not need to be a chef to show someone you care. The science behind why cooking for others deepens connection, plus simple British comfort food ideas that say 'I am thinking of you' louder than any text.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Why We Need More Third Places in Devon (And How You Can Help Create Them)
Devon's pubs, village halls, and community spaces are under threat. Here's why third places matter more than ever in rural communities — and practical ways to create new ones where old ones have disappeared.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Why Dinners With Friends Exists: A Letter From Our Founder
A personal letter from Pamela Silkstone on why she started Dinners With Friends — the loneliness she saw, the power of a shared meal, and the vision for community in Devon and beyond.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
Why Eating Alone Is Underrated (And How It Can Improve Your Social Life)
Solo dining is shedding its stigma and becoming a quiet act of self-confidence. Discover why eating alone builds the skills that make you a better friend, dinner companion, and conversationalist.
Pamela Silkstone
26 March 2026
The Best Social Clubs in Exeter: A 2026 Guide to Meeting New People
Complete guide to social clubs in Exeter for 2026 — dinner groups, walking clubs, singles socials, adventure meetups and more. Find your people in Devon.
Pamela Silkstone
23 March 2026
7 Ways to Actually Make Friends When Your Diary Is Rammed
Practical, research-backed strategies for making real friends when your calendar is already full. From the repeated exposure principle to the friendship funnel, what actually works.
Pamela Silkstone
25 February 2026
An Introvert's Guide to Building a Social Life You Actually Enjoy
Being an introvert doesn't mean you don't want connection. A practical guide to building a social life that energises rather than drains, with science-backed tips.
Pamela Silkstone
25 February 2026
Best Restaurants in Exeter 2026: An Honest, Opinionated Guide
Exeter's best restaurants for 2026 — Michelin-worthy tasting menus, AA Rosette winners, waterfront dining, and hidden gems. Tried, tested, honestly reviewed.
Pamela Silkstone
25 February 2026
How to Actually Turn Acquaintances Into Real Friends
The science-backed stages of friendship and practical ways to turn acquaintances into real friends, with the latest 2025 research on what makes bonds stick.
Pamela Silkstone
25 February 2026
How Sharing a Meal Can Change Your Social Life
From ancient campfires to modern supper clubs, sharing food has always been humanity's most powerful bonding ritual. Why communal dining is the antidote to the UK's loneliness epidemic — and what a Dinners With Friends Wednesday evening actually looks like.
Pamela Silkstone
25 February 2026
How to Build a Social Life From Scratch
Just moved somewhere new? Here's a practical, month-by-month guide to building genuine friendships and a social life from the ground up — even when you don't know a single person.
Pamela Silkstone
25 February 2026
How to Move Past Small Talk and Actually Connect
Research-backed techniques to move beyond surface-level chat and build real connections. From the Harvard question-asking study to the vulnerability ladder — how to have conversations that actually matter.
Pamela Silkstone
25 February 2026
The Friendship Recession Nobody's Talking About
Adults in their 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond are losing friends at an alarming rate. The UK data behind the friendship recession, why it hits harder at every life stage, and what the loneliness epidemic means for your health.
Pamela Silkstone
25 February 2026
Why Blokes Struggle to Make Mates After 30
Men are losing friends faster than women, and the consequences are serious. The stats, the masculinity barriers, and practical ways men can build deeper connections after 30.
Pamela Silkstone
25 February 2026
Why Your Acquaintances Matter More Than You Think
Research shows casual acquaintances often have the biggest impact on your career, ideas, and wellbeing. Why weak ties matter and how to cultivate them.
Pamela Silkstone
25 February 2026
What Loneliness Actually Does to Your Brain and Body
Loneliness is a health risk, not just an emotion. The surprising ways social isolation affects your brain, body, and longevity — and why reconnecting with others could be the best thing you do for your health.
Pamela Silkstone
25 February 2026
How to Deal With Losing Friends as an Adult
The friendship breakup nobody talks about. Why adult friendships drift apart, how to grieve the loss without closure, and how to make space for the connections that fit who you are now.
Pamela Silkstone
25 February 2026
Why Making Friends After 30 Feels So Hard
It's not you — it's the system. The science behind why adult friendships feel impossible, from vanishing proximity to life stage mismatches, and what you can do about it.
Pamela Silkstone
25 February 2026
Working From Home and Feeling Alone? You're Not the Only One
Remote work gave us flexibility and freedom — but it also took away the casual social interactions that kept us connected. How to fight WFH loneliness and rebuild your social life.
Pamela Silkstone
25 February 2026
From Colleagues to Friends: Maintaining Bonds Beyond the Workplace
Why work friendships fade when you change jobs, how hybrid work has made it harder, and practical strategies for turning colleagues into lasting friends.
Pamela Silkstone
19 February 2026
Welcome to Dinners With Friends
Discover how Dinners With Friends is bringing people together over great food in Devon. Learn about our story, our mission, and what makes our community dining events special.
Pamela Silkstone
15 February 2026
Why Saying Yes More Often Could Change Your Year
The psychology behind our default 'no', what research says about accepting more social invitations, and why the things you almost didn't do often become the moments that matter most.
Pamela Silkstone
5 February 2026
Finding Your People When Everything Feels Unstable
How political, economic, and personal instability makes us crave belonging more — and how to find your chosen family through intentional community in the UK.
Pamela Silkstone
22 January 2026
Why Your Neighbourhood Matters More Than Your Network
The power of weak ties, knowing your neighbours, and why local connection provides something your close friends cannot. UK data on neighbourhood relationships and how to build them.
Pamela Silkstone
8 January 2026
The Friendship Deficit in Britain's Suburbs and New Builds
How suburban sprawl and new-build estates are designed for cars, not community. The UK data behind the lack of third places, and what communities are doing to fight back.
Pamela Silkstone
22 December 2025
How to Reconnect With Old Friends Without It Being Awkward
Lost touch with someone you used to be close to? Research shows they'd be far happier to hear from you than you think. Here's how to reach out — and what to say.
Pamela Silkstone
11 December 2025
The Comfort of Routine: Building Regular Social Rituals in Chaotic Times
When everything feels uncertain, regular social rituals become an anchor. The psychology of routine, UK research on social connection, and how to build your own recurring gatherings that stick.
Pamela Silkstone
27 November 2025
How to Talk About the News Without Ruining the Evening
The news is heavy. Your social life doesn't have to be. How to engage with current events at dinner without spiralling into doom, plus conversational techniques for keeping things meaningful without drowning in anxiety.
Pamela Silkstone
13 November 2025
Navigating Political Differences at the Dinner Table
How to handle political disagreements with friends without damaging relationships. UK data on political polarisation, practical tips for difficult conversations, and why friendships across divides matter more than ever.
Pamela Silkstone
30 October 2025
How to Support Friends Going Through Tough Times
When someone you care about is struggling, it's hard to know what to say or do. Here's a practical guide to showing up well — with the ring theory of support, real conversation tips, and UK mental health resources.
Pamela Silkstone
16 October 2025
Building a Support Network, Not Just a Social Circle
There's a difference between friends you have fun with and friends who hold you up. Here's how to build a diverse, resilient support network that goes beyond surface-level socialising.
Pamela Silkstone
2 October 2025
How Life Transitions Test Your Friendships — and What to Do About It
Divorce, redundancy, moving, becoming a parent, or losing someone you love — major life changes reshape your social circle. Here's why some friendships survive transitions and others don't, and how to navigate what comes next.
Pamela Silkstone
18 September 2025
The Power of Showing Up: Why Consistency Matters More Than Grand Gestures in Friendships
Research shows it takes over 200 hours to build a close friendship. One-off events won't get you there — but regular rituals will. Here's why showing up consistently is the single best thing you can do for your social life.
Pamela Silkstone
4 September 2025
The Art of the Midweek Catch-Up
Why socialising doesn't have to mean big weekend plans. The underrated power of a Tuesday coffee or Wednesday dinner — and why lowering the bar makes friendship happen more often.
Pamela Silkstone
21 August 2025
How to Make Time for Friends When Life Keeps Throwing Curveballs
Why 'I'm too busy' has become our default excuse, what it really means, and practical strategies for protecting your friendships when everything else feels urgent.
Pamela Silkstone
7 August 2025
From Anxiety to Action: Turning Worry Into Community
How collective anxiety about war, climate, and the economy can be channelled into community building. The psychology of 'tend and befriend,' UK initiatives born from crisis, and why small acts of connection are the antidote to helplessness.
Pamela Silkstone
24 July 2025
Creating Space for Joy in a World Full of Bad News
Why allowing yourself moments of genuine happiness during difficult times isn't selfish — it's essential. How to find real joy without falling into toxic positivity, backed by UK wellbeing research.
Pamela Silkstone
10 July 2025
Why We Cancel Plans When We Need Them Most
The psychology behind cancelling social plans — and why the moment you most want to bail is often the moment you most need to show up. UK research on anxiety, avoidance, and how to break the cycle.
Pamela Silkstone
26 June 2025
The Mental Health Benefits of a Regular Social Calendar
Research shows that consistent social activity protects your mental health far more than sporadic catch-ups. Here's how to build a sustainable social calendar that actually works.
Pamela Silkstone
12 June 2025
Staying Connected on a Budget: Socialising Through the Cost of Living Crisis
16 million Brits have cut back on socialising due to the cost of living crisis. How to maintain friendships on a budget and why social spending is essential.
Pamela Silkstone
29 May 2025
Why Small Gatherings Beat Big Nights Out in Anxious Times
From supper clubs to intimate dinner parties, Brits are choosing smaller, more meaningful social experiences. Here's the psychology behind why groups of 4-8 feel safer and more fulfilling — especially when the world feels uncertain.
Pamela Silkstone
15 May 2025
The Role of Food in Emotional Wellbeing and Connection
From gut health to group dinners, the science behind how food shapes our mood, our relationships, and our sense of belonging — and why eating together might be the most underrated form of care.
Pamela Silkstone
1 May 2025
The Dinner Table as Sanctuary: Why Shared Meals Ground Us
From ancient campfires to modern kitchen tables, sharing food has always been humanity's most powerful grounding ritual. The science behind why eating together reduces stress, builds trust, and offers an antidote to digital overwhelm.
Pamela Silkstone
17 April 2025
Beyond the Group Chat: Why Texting Isn't Enough
Group chats give us the illusion of connection without the substance. Why digital communication can't replace real bonding, backed by 2025 research.
Pamela Silkstone
3 April 2025
Digital Fatigue and the Return to Real-World Connection
Years of Zoom calls, remote work, and endless screen time have left us craving something screens can't deliver. Here's why face-to-face connection matters more than ever — and what you can do about it.
Pamela Silkstone
20 March 2025
Doom-Scrolling vs Real Connection: Choosing People Over Panic
The average UK adult spends 4.5 hours online every day. Here's what that screen time is doing to your brain, your friendships, and your capacity for real human connection.
Pamela Silkstone
5 March 2025
Keeping Friendships Alive When the World Feels Overwhelming
When the news cycle is relentless and anxiety is through the roof, friendships are often the first thing we let slip. Here's why that happens — and how to stop it.
Pamela Silkstone
19 February 2025
Why Your Social Circle Shrinks During a Crisis — and How to Fight It
Why we pull away from friends during stress, UK loneliness data for 2025, and practical strategies to resist social withdrawal when you need connection most.
Pamela Silkstone
5 February 2025
The Science of Social Resilience: How Connection Protects Us in Hard Times
Research shows social bonds literally buffer us against stress, lowering cortisol and boosting immune function. The science of social resilience, UK health data on connection, and why investing in friendships is a form of self-preservation.
Pamela Silkstone
22 January 2025
How Global Uncertainty Is Reshaping British Social Life
Wars, political instability, and a cost of living crisis that won't quit are changing how Brits socialise. But the shift isn't all bad — and it might be exactly what we needed.
Pamela Silkstone
8 January 2025