Exeter’s St Nicholas Priory becomes recording venue for new Cole Stacey project

One of Exeter’s oldest and most hidden historic buildings is being brought into the spotlight by a local musician, as Devon artist Cole Stacey unveils a new creative project centred on St Nicholas Priory.

The 1,000-year-old priory, tucked away just off Fore Street, is the setting for a newly released mini-documentary and a forthcoming live album recorded inside the building. 

The project will culminate in a one-off live performance at the priory on 16 April 2026, giving audiences the chance to experience live music within one of the city’s most historic spaces.

St Nicholas Priory, believed to be the oldest surviving building in Devon, is often overlooked despite sitting in the heart of the city. 

Cole said spending time recording there helped him reflect on both the weight of history and the role places play in shaping people’s lives.

“You feel the heartbeats of a thousand years,” he said. 

“Being there made me think about how precious life is, and how the places we connect with can influence who we become.”

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The short documentary, released online at the start of January 2025, shows Cole performing within the priory while exploring its atmosphere and long history. 

The accompanying live album captures the natural acoustics of the building, with the space itself forming part of the sound.

For Exeter residents, the project offers a fresh way to engage with a landmark many may have walked past without ever stepping inside. 

By combining music, film and heritage, the work highlights how historic buildings can still play an active role in the city’s cultural life.

Cole, who is based in Devon, is known for blending folk-inspired songwriting with a strong sense of place. 

He has previously toured extensively and worked with artists including Midge Ure, but says this project felt particularly personal because of its Exeter setting.

The April performance will be the only chance for audiences to hear the music performed live inside the priory, with limited capacity due to the building’s size.

Organisers say the event is intended to be intimate, allowing people to experience the space in a way that differs from a typical concert venue.