The quay dates from the days when Exeter was a port, during a period of prosperity which was brought to an abrupt end in the 13C when Isabella of Devon built a weir across the river and diverted all trade from Exeter to Topsham. By the 16C, the river was no longer navigable so the first ship canal in England was dug (1563-1566). The Quay House Interpretation Centre presents models, paintings and artefacts and an audio-visual history of Exeter.