After visiting Phillips Academy Andover, I travelled north for 45 minutes along Route 495 to visit Andover’s biggest academic and athletic rival, Phillips Academy Exeter, or simply “Exeter.” Such is the life of a boarding school admissions consultant!
The school is nestled in the quaint community of Exeter, NH, which itself is tucked away in the Seacoast region of New Hampshire. Since it’s summer, I’ve opted to stay the night nearby in Rye, NH with its beautiful beaches as opposed to the Exeter Inn, a historic hotel that also has a popular tavern for casual dining. The extra 20-minute drive in the morning is a small price to pay in these summer months.
As one drives into the town of Exeter with its tree-lined streets and the Academy at the heart of it, you’ll notice some things that are similar to its boarding school rival, and some things that are more unique as well. It similarly is one of the most prestigious boarding schools in the world. Its campus is a harmonious blend of historic architecture, cutting-edge facilities, and natural beauty. But whereas the town of Andover is more of a suburb, the town of Exeter is more rural, offering a smaller but equally quaint, in its own distinctive way, downtown area. And whereas Andover sits atop the town of Andover, almost overlooking it, Exeter is nestled into the fabric of the downtown area. Indeed, Stillwell’s Ice Cream is just a mere few steps away.
Strolling through downtown Exeter feels like stepping into a storybook. Water Street and Front Street are lined with quaint, brick buildings that house a mix of local shops, and an ample number of restaurants and cafes, many of which have been family-owned for generations. The atmosphere is relaxed yet lively, with the town's historic charm paired with a modern, eclectic flair.
Swasey Parkway, a 10-acre park along the Squamscott River, is one of Exeter’s most scenic spots. With its walking trails, picnic areas, and views of the river, it’s the perfect place for a leisurely afternoon. During the fall, the park is a canvas of vibrant autumn colors, while in spring, it bursts with fresh blooms and lush greenery. The park also hosts various events throughout the year, from local festivals to outdoor concerts.
Exeter’s 675-acre campus itself is rich in history, with buildings dating back to the 18th century, yet it never feels stuck in the past. The iconic Academy Building is one of the school’s most recognizable landmarks. With its grand columns and bell tower, it stands as a symbol of the school’s long-standing commitment to academic rigor and moral integrity. The building is going through renovation and will include a new Design Lab with a refurbished Assembly Hall. It offers a sense of timelessness that resonates with both students and visitors.
The Class of 1945 Library was designed by renowned architect, Louis I. Kahn, and is the largest secondary school library in the world. The Phelps Science Center, Phillips Hall, which was the first building designed specifically for Harkness classrooms, The Davis Center, Goel Center for Theatre and Dance and the Bowld Music Center with its striking signature glass wall all fit neatly on the campus.
The Exeter Main Building is another architectural gem, blending the charm of century-old design with modern conveniences. Inside, it’s easy to imagine the scholars of the past engaging in thoughtful discussion or deep reflection but also see how today’s students are utilizing the space for group work, research, and brainstorming sessions. Shattuck Hall, home to Exeter’s cutting-edge science program, is a sleek building with modern design but fits perfectly into the campus’ overall aesthetic.
The beauty of Exeter’s campus lies not just in its physical architecture and its connection with nature, but also in its proximity with the quaint town it shares a name with.