About Bomba
Bomba is a versatile music and event venue on Exeter Quay, billed as “Exeter’s ultimate event space” (bombaexeter.com ). Housed in a historic warehouse building (originally the Hot House/Volts club since the 1980s) (pro-pa.co.uk ), it holds roughly 250 people (www.involvingmusic.com ). The standout feature is its high-vaulted beamed ceiling – an “iconic beamed roof” noted on the venue’s homepage (bombaexeter.com ) – which combines with industrial-chic décor and a spacious dance floor. Bomba offers comfy lounge seating and two outdoor terraces to enjoy fresh air between sets (bombaexeter.com ) (bombaexeter.com ). A dedicated upstairs DJ studio is fitted with Funktion-One sound and Pioneer decks (bombaexeter.com ). In the bar you’ll find the venue’s own branded drinks – on tap is a house-brewed “Bomba Beer” and a rum – plus local ciders and a full cocktail menu (bombaexeter.com ). In short, Bomba is notable for its top-shelf Funktion-One sound system and intelligent lighting, all in a relaxed riverside setting. It has been part of Exeter’s nightlife for over 40 years (pro-pa.co.uk ) and is created to be an immersive space for music fans. This history, proprietary drinks and acoustics make Bomba a unique hub on the Quayside.
Events and Programming
Bomba’s calendar is packed with varied events and club nights throughout the year. It hosts electronic music DJs (house, techno, trance, drum & bass, garage etc.) and live bands as well as private parties, theatre productions or sports screenings (bombaexeter.com ). Recent highlights include headline DJs like Seb Zito and Jon Dasilva (UK house veterans) on late-night line-ups and guest trance acts (Aly & Fila, Ferry Corsten) brought in for special nights. The venue also stages themed parties – daytime “Ibiza”-style house parties on sunny afternoons, 90s/00s retro raves, tribute shows (for example a Toto or Motown tribute band), and even country-themed evenings. For example, a “Motown Night” live band event in 2024 offered tickets at about £6.50–£8 online (rising to £10 on the door) (www.bombaexeter.com ). Entry fees vary by event; many club nights run around £5–£15 pre-sale, with door tickets a few pounds higher. Some midday or special events are free or low-cost, especially commemorative or promotional days. Bomba typically programs weekends and bank holidays, with events often starting late evening (doors opening 7pm–9pm, dancing into the early hours) or bright afternoon. You can expect most nights to run until around 2–3am for clubs, or 7pm–11pm for live music shows (www.bombaexeter.com ) (www.bombaexeter.com ). For the latest listings – often teased on social media or email newsletters – watch Bomba’s official site. Popular shows often sell out, so tickets (sold online) should be booked in advance; on-the-door tickets are only available if not sold out.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Bomba events are sold online through the venue’s authorised outlets (typically via event platforms announced on Bomba’s website and social feeds (bombaexeter.com )). There is no physical box office; you must buy tickets in advance or at the door on the night if available. Pre-sale tickets are generally cheaper (for many events online advance tickets have saved attendees a few pounds compared to the door price (www.bombaexeter.com )). For example, a live band night in 2024 was £6.50 online versus £10 on the door (www.bombaexeter.com ). Big headline acts or season parties can be slightly higher, but in general ticket prices stay modest. There are no refunds or exchanges, and Bomba enforces a strict no re-entry policy once you’re inside (bombaexeter.com ). If you lose a ticket, contact Bomba (the team can advise what to do). Group bookings are possible – email the venue if you have a large party and they may offer a discount (bombaexeter.com ). Keep an eye on the newsletter and social media for presale invitations or guest list codes, which often drop days or weeks before events. Most events are 18+ only, so bring valid photo ID if you or your friends look under 25 (Challenge-25 checking is enforced for alcohol) (bombaexeter.com ).
Seating and Layout
Bomba is designed mainly for standing and dancing, but it does offer some scattered seating. The main room is open-plan: a wide dancefloor in front of the stage/DJ-booth, flanked by sofas and barstools around the edges. There is no fixed auditorium seating or balcony. You will find a few comfortable bench seats and chairs along the back or sides, but most people stand. Off to one side is the DJ booth (or live band stage), and sound speakers (Funktion-One) are placed to cover the floor evenly. Visitors say the venue feels “intimate” with sound all around (www.bombaexeter.com ). Two outdoor terraces (front and back) open out on The Quay, each with tables and seating for a quieter view or smoke break (bombaexeter.com ). The best places to enjoy different events can vary: for DJs, the middle of the dancefloor offers the tightest bass and clear stereo; for live bands, sit near front or center. Avoid standing directly at the base of the bass cabinets if you’re sensitive to volume. Acoustically, the Funktion-One system means very clear, punchy sound – expect high volumes (earplugs are available). Some guests like to catch their breath on a terrace or seating area between sets. Note that Bomba is single-storey interior (aside from the DJ studio), so there are no walkways above. Overall, treat it as a general-admission (unreserved) club space, and arrive early to claim your favorite spot on the dancefloor.
Getting There and Parking
Address. Bomba is located at 4 The Quay, Exeter EX2 4AP (alongside the river in the city’s historic dock area, near the Spacex arts centre).
By public transit. Several Stagecoach bus routes stop near Exeter Quay – for example, City Link routes B, C, I, J, P (and others like the Park & Ride lines) all serve stops within a short walk (moovitapp.com ). From the main bus station (Princes St), the Cathedral/Quay bus stop is only a ten-minute walk from Bomba. There is also a short uphill walk from the River Exe Park & Ride stop; in fact one visitor notes a Park & Ride stop is “within a few minutes of the quay” (www.tripadvisor.com ). Trains: Exeter St Davids station (main national rail hub) is about 1¼ miles away – you can walk (~25–30 min) via Western Way or take a short taxi/bus ride downtown. Exeter Central station is closer (about 0.5 miles) and a smoother 10–15 minute walk, heading along Queen St and over the Quay Bridge.
Driving and parking. If arriving by car, the most convenient public car park is the Exeter City Council Cathedral & Quay multi-storey on Lower Coombe Street (EX1 1DX), just north of the Quay. It has roughly 350 spaces, and charges around £3.40 for two hours (www.parkopedia.com ). Note this can fill up on busy nights, and on-street parking along the Quay is very limited (mostly permit-only). Alternatively use a Park & Ride outside the city – for example, Matford or Digby – and catch the bus into the centre, then walk downstream to the Quay (Park & Ride buses stop near South Gate in the centre, a short walk to the Quay).
Taxi/Uber. A convenient drop-off point is directly outside Bomba on The Quay. Official taxis rank at the bus station (5 min walk) handles rides home; you can also book Uber/LeCab – just do so early on event nights as service can be slower. Cycling: The Quay is bike-friendly with racks nearby.
Accessibility. Bomba has step-free entry (via double doors) and will unfold a ramp on request (bombaexeter.com ), so wheelchairs can enter. However, note the toilets are up a flight of stairs with no lift (bombaexeter.com ).
Inside the Venue
Bomba’s atmosphere is lively and relaxed-friendly. Entry is usually via one main door; staff will check tickets/ID on arrival (Challenge 25 applies for alcohol) (bombaexeter.com ). Expect standard club protocols: security checks and a separate cloakroom. The venue provides a cloakroom for larger items and coats for £2 per item (bombaexeter.com ). All bags bigger than a small handbag must be left there (bombaexeter.com ). Failure to present your cloakroom ticket when retrieving bags will mean waiting until after the event. Bomba enforces strict policies: no illegal drugs or weapons (zero tolerance – offenders are removed) (bombaexeter.com ), and must adhere to local laws (no under-18 drinking) (bombaexeter.com ).
Dress code: There’s no fancy dress code – in fact the official rule is simply to “cover your rude bits & wear your raving shoes” (bombaexeter.com ). Comfortable clubwear and dancing shoes are recommended. Food & Drink: The in-house restaurant/bar serves a Latin/Tex-Mex-style menu. Reviewers frequently praise the tacos and hearty dishes (one called it “the best Mexican food we’ve had outside of London” (www.tripadvisor.co.uk )). You can order food well before or during early hours (until about 10pm or so on late nights). At the bar, specialty drinks include Bomba’s own beer and rum (bombaexeter.com ) alongside other beers, wines and cocktails. Bar & Service: The venue has centrally-placed bars where you queue for drinks and bar food. Service is generally prompt once ordered. Cash and cards are accepted. (Note: a cashpoint is located just outside at the Spar convenience store (bombaexeter.com ).) Facilities: Restrooms (mens and womens) are upstairs, so expect to climb stairs to reach them. No smoking is permitted inside; there’s a small outdoor smoking area at the entrance (bombaexeter.com ). Show Production: As advertised, Bomba is equipped with a top-quality Funktion-One sound system and an “intelligent lighting system” (bombaexeter.com ). DJs use club-standard Pioneer decks (available for hire) (bombaexeter.com ). This means shows tend to be loud and dynamic. Strobe lights and fog are common at nights – ear protectors are available for free at the bar if you need them (bombaexeter.com ). The overall vibe mixes club energy with the waterfront ambience (during daylight events you can even enjoy the view from the terrace). Photography: Casual photography is tolerated, but large professional cameras or video cameras are not allowed (bombaexeter.com ). Security may ask you to check any big gear at the cloakroom or leave it behind.
Nearby Amenities
Bomba sits in Exeter’s Quayside district, which offers plenty of pre- or post-show amenities. For food, the Quay itself hosts a handful of restaurants and pubs within a few minutes’ walk. For example, The Samuel Jones gastropub (also known as Sam Jones) serves British and seafood dishes, while Crust Pizzeria/Arancini and light grab-and-go cafes are steps away. There are tapas bars, a Thai restaurant, and fish & chips shops along the Quayside. The area is particularly lively on summer evenings. It’s wise to arrive an hour early if you want a sit-down meal in one of these – tables fill up quickly on busy nights. Alternatively, Exeters city centre (5–10 minutes’ walk east across Quay Bridge) offers dozens more pubs, bars and restaurants (from casual to fine dining).
For drinks, several bars are nearby. The Quay House and RiffRaff Bar are just uphill, and the Vaults and Timepiece nightclub are short strolls into town. Closer at hand is the hotel-bar at the nearby Holiday Inn Express on Gandy Street (offering cocktails and sports on TV). Late-night options after Bomba include bars along Queen St and High St down the hill.
There are several accommodation options convenient to Bomba. In the city centre you’ll find chain hotels like Premier Inn Exeter City Centre, Jury’s Inn (Ibis), and Travelodge, all within 0.5–1 mile. There are also boutique B&Bs and inns along the Quay itself or on New North Road a short walk away. If you stay in town, it’s easy to walk back (the round-trip from the centre is only 20 minutes).
Timing and transportation. To avoid queues, it’s best to arrive 30–60 minutes before an event. Most shows begin around 7–9pm; doors often open 30–60 minutes prior (check your ticket for exact door times). For late-night travel home: note Exeter’s last trains run around midnight (depending on day), and normal buses wind down at park & ride hours. Stagecoach operates NightRider buses on weekends to certain estates. Otherwise, call a taxi (Exeter has several firms) or scooter service from the bus station rank/lots in town. The venue asks patrons to leave quietly when closing (bombaexeter.com ), so plan transport in advance on a silent exit.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several things set Bomba apart. Its high-quality sound system (Funktion-One with Martin Audio subs) and intelligent lighting are rare in a regional club (pro-pa.co.uk ) (bombaexeter.com ), so both DJs and crowds appreciate the pro-grade production. The venue’s own brewed Bomba beer and spiced rum add a unique local touch (bombaexeter.com ) – this is more than just a rented hall, it has its own identity. The Quayside location is scenic and historic, giving events a waterfront ambience that’s unlike city-centre clubs. Architecturally, the exposed beams and two-level layout (above the famous Move nightclub (bombaexeter.com )) create an expansive but still personal feel. Longtime Exeter locals value Bomba for continuing decades of nightlife tradition (as the successor to the old Hot House/Volts) (pro-pa.co.uk ). Its programme is broad, drawing both dedicated underground club fans and casual night-owls – this crossover appeal is part of its charm. Community culture plays a role too: Bomba has strict anti-harassment policies (bombaexeter.com ) so it feels safe and inclusive for everyone. In short, Bomba matters because it combines big-city club features (top sound, pro lighting, big-name acts) with a friendly local atmosphere, plus memorable extras like its own bar labels and riverside setting. Both performers and audiences often highlight its “intimate” vibe (www.bombaexeter.com ) and friendly staff, making it more than just another venue.
Visitor Tips and Information
Bring ID. Most nights are 18+ (check your event). Staff enforce Challenge-25 for alcohol (bombaexeter.com ), so anyone who looks under 25 should have a photo ID (passport or full driving licence) ready. Under-18s are not admitted to adult shows and may be refused entry or ejected if trying to buy alcohol (bombaexeter.com ).Bag & cloakroom. You can bring a small purse or clutch, but any bag larger than a handbag will be asked to go to the cloakroom (a £2/item charge) (bombaexeter.com ). Coat-check is available for jackets on chilly nights. Keep your cloakroom ticket safe – without it you must wait until after the show to claim belongings.Dress comfortably. No formal attire needed – come in casual clubwear and sturdy shoes for dancing. The venue is usually heated for packed crowds, so layers that you can remove are wise.Photography and phones. Small phone cameras are fine for snapshots. No professional cameras, large lenses or video equipment are allowed (bombaexeter.com ). Expect limited or no Wi-Fi inside – put a safety pin or your unique number in your phone so you can relock it if security does a bag check.Noise. The sound can be very loud. Bomba provides free earplugs at the bar (bombaexeter.com ) – consider using them if you’re sensitive. Note: no strobe alert is given, so anyone with epilepsy or similar should use caution.Smoking. No smoking indoors. A small ventilated area with ash bins is outside near the entrance (bombaexeter.com ). Leave and re-enter if you need a cigarette (but remember, no re-entry after leaving (bombaexeter.com )).Drinks & food. You may not bring outside food or drink. All refreshments are sold inside. Try the bar’s specialty (Bomba Beer or rum). There’s a decent Mexican/Tex-Mex style menu if you’re hungry – several customers rave about the tacos and fillings (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Expect to pay around pub prices.Wheelchair access. The venue is wheelchair-accessible via a front ramp (bombaexeter.com ), but the restrooms are upstairs (no lift) (bombaexeter.com ). When attending, it helps to email in advance and staff will prepare the ramp on arrival (bombaexeter.com ).Behaviour. Bomba promotes a friendly environment. Any harassment or trouble leads to ejection. Be mindful of neighbors and keep voices down when leaving; the venue has a “neighbour-friendly” policy and asks everyone to exit quietly (bombaexeter.com ).Plan your exit. If the event runs late, know your transport home. Exeter’s trains and most buses stop around midnight. After that, only the NightRider buses or taxi services run. The nearest taxi rank is at Princesshay/bus station (10 min walk) or book Uber in advance near the city centre.
Where is Bomba located and how do I get there?
Bomba’s address is 4 The Quay, Exeter EX2 4AP (on the riverside Quayside by Spacex). It’s accessible by many Stagecoach bus routes (for example lines B, C, I, J, P) that stop nearby (moovitapp.com ). From Exeter city centre, a short walk across the Quay Bridge brings you next to the venue. Exeter St Davids station is ~1.3 miles away (a bus or ~30-minute walk); Exeter Central is ~0.5 miles (10–15 min walk). By taxi/ride-share, ask for “Bomba, 4 The Quay.”
What kind of events does Bomba host?
Bomba hosts a wide range of events. These include electronic club nights (house, trance, techno, drum & bass, etc.), live band gigs (covers or originals), themed dance parties (like 90s/00s raves or Ibiza day parties) and private functions. It also screens live sports and occasionally hosts theatre or comedy. Check Bomba’s website for the current “What’s On” listings. No two nights are the same here – one night might be a guest DJ, another a soul band or country tribute act.
How much do tickets cost and where can I buy them?
Ticket prices at Bomba vary by event. Typical club nights and smaller gigs often have advance tickets in the £5–£15 range. As an example, a Motown band night was priced around £6.50–£8 online (£10 on the door) (www.bombaexeter.com ). Bigger headliner events may be more. Tickets are only sold through official channels (always buy via the links on Bomba’s site or its social pages). There is no walk-up box office; buy online when they go on sale. Check whether advance purchase or door is cheapest – door tickets are often a few pounds higher.
Are tickets refundable or transferable?
Bomba’s policy is that tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable (common for clubs). Once you buy a ticket, assume it’s a final sale. Be sure of your date and age requirements before buying. If an event is cancelled or rescheduled by the promoter, you should be notified about any refund or exchange options. Otherwise, there is no door credit or refund if you simply decide not to attend.
Is there an on-site box office or can I pay at the door?
Bomba has no walk-up box office. If an event isn’t sold out, you can pay cash at the door (on-the-door price is usually higher than pre-sale). But for popular shows, don’t rely on spot tickets. Always try to buy online beforehand. If you do buy at the door, have the correct cash or card ready to speed up entry. Note that even with a ticket, there is no re-entry once you enter (bombaexeter.com ) (so don’t leave until you’re done for the night).
What are the age restrictions at Bomba?
Most club events at Bomba are strictly 18+ (no entry under 18 even with an adult) (bombaexeter.com ). Some earlier or special family-friendly daytime events may allow teenagers, but check the event details. If under-25, you must show ID to buy alcohol (bombaexeter.com ). Even at 18+, Bomba enforces a “Challenge 25” policy, so lapel-promotional IDs or photocopies won’t work – bring your original passport or driving licence.
What is the seating and layout inside Bomba?
Bomba is primarily general admission. The main area is an open dancefloor with the DJ booth or small stage at one end. There are no fixed seating rows, but a few sofas and stools around the perimeter for a breather (bombaexeter.com ). Two outdoor terrace areas provide additional seating. There is no VIP balcony – anyone can stand up front or back. If you prefer a quieter spot, the back corners or outdoor decks have chairs. Floor vantage is largely a matter of when you arrive: front-of-stage for the full experience, or towards the middle for more room to move. The Funktion-One sound means the music is loud but clear throughout the space.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Bomba is accessible at ground level. Staff keep a folding ramp in front for wheelchairs (bombaexeter.com ). Once inside the main room is on one level. However, be aware the restrooms are upstairs and not wheelchair-accessible (bombaexeter.com ). It is best to email in advance so a ramp can be prepared for you.
What items are not allowed in Bomba?
For safety and comfort, Bomba bans drugs or weapons (zero tolerance) (bombaexeter.com ). Also, large bags or backpacks aren’t allowed on the dance floor – any bag larger than a handbag must go to the cloakroom (bombaexeter.com ). Food and non-venue drinks shouldn’t be brought in. Professional video cameras, large photo cameras or tablets are prohibited (bombaexeter.com ). (Smartphones and point-and-shoot cameras for personal use are normally fine.) Smoking is only allowed in the small outdoor entrance area (bombaexeter.com ). Standard ID (passport or photo driving licence) is needed at the door; originals only, please.
Is there a cloakroom?
Yes. Bomba provides a staffed cloakroom for coats and anything larger than a handbag. It costs £2 per item (bombaexeter.com ). Remember to keep your ticket stub – without it you’re not allowed to collect your belongings until the end of the event. Use the cloakroom for items like backpacks, helmets or jackets. Smaller bags and valuables can usually be carried inside, though natural wearers are often asked to tuck straps up or put them down.
Does Bomba serve food and drink?
Yes, Bomba has an on-site bar and kitchen. The menu is Tex-Mex/Latin-inspired (tacos, rice bowls, etc.) and reviewers have specifically praised items like halloumi tacos and fish tacos (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). The bar offers Bomba’s own beer and spiced rum, local craft beers, wine and cocktails (bombaexeter.com ). You can eat before the show or during the earlier hours – the kitchen typically serves until around 10–10:30pm on club nights. Outside food or drink is not allowed. All major cards are accepted, and an ATM is available just outside at the Spar, one minute’s walk away (bombaexeter.com ).
Is there Wi-Fi at the venue?
No public Wi-Fi is provided at Bomba. Mobile phone signal in the venue is usually good (depending on your carrier), but don’t count on quick streaming. It’s best to arrange travel, friends, or funds before entering. (Bomba’s FAQ doesn’t mention Wi-Fi, suggesting none is available.)
How early should I arrive for a show?
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before the advertised door time, especially for popular events. That lets you find the entrance (if there’s a queue) and get settled. If you’re eating at the venue, you may want to give yourself an hour or more before showtime. Peak arrival is often 15–30 minutes after doors open. (Since there’s no re-entry (bombaexeter.com ), once inside you’ll want any money or bathrooms sorted in advance.)
Are there hotels near Bomba and Exeter Quay?
There are no large hotels right on the Quay, but several good options are within a short walk or taxi ride. The Exeter city centre (0.2–0.5 miles away) has chain hotels like Premier Inn, Ibis (Jurys Inns) and Travelodge. A modern Holiday Inn Express is also nearby on Gandy St (uphill to the south). If you don’t mind ~10–15 minutes of walking, you’ll find plenty of B&Bs or central hotels in the town center. Booking a city centre or Quay-area hotel is convenient, as you can walk back across the lit Quay path after the event.
What time does Bomba usually close?
Club nights typically run until 2:00–3:00am. If the advertised time is "3am", expect to leave by then. Live music shows usually end earlier (some band events finish by 11pm). Once you leave, you cannot re-enter (bombaexeter.com ), so be sure you have everything with you (drinks, cash, belongings) before exiting.
