The Vaults

I don't normally write reviews but my friend and I have had a few very bad experiences at Vaults and feel it's important to warn others. Firstly, they have a arbitrary entrance policy. I have seen them take a disliking to certain people for no reason and refuse them entry. This happened to me and my friend when a bouncer who I believe to be the manager although she did not disclose this at the time, refused our entry based on a previous incident. At first we assumed this was mistaken identity as this has happened to many people previously. However, concerned about the mystery incidence, we decided to go back another night for more clarity. The bouncers on the door refused to tell us any information based on GDPR. However, data subjects are legally allowed to request information about themselves either in writing or verbally. By not accepting or complying with our request, Vaults are breaking the law, which does not surprise me as their advice on requesting personal information was to go to the police. Clearly Vaults know nothing about GDPR policy nor are particularly bothered by complying with it. Strange as the fines for not complying with GDPR are astronomical. Perhaps they are sitting on a huge pot of money for such occasions instead of investing it into properly trained and professional door staff. Should you ever be allowed to grace the establishment with your presence, the security inside are no better. I have personally witnessed them use unreasonable force towards people who they wish to remove from the premise. Regardless of their reasoning for doing so, they are not entitled to use such heavy physical force, particularly when customers aren't even reacting aggressively defensively. As a woman, it is intimidating to witness such unwarranted aggression and definitely spoils the night. I understand the have a difficult job dealing with people under the influence but the way they treat people is just horrendous. Finally, the actual environment isn't worth the hassle of getting in. The drinks are almost undrinkable and extremely overpriced. A vodka and orange juice tastes like flavoured water, the last time I was there I had to leave it because it was so disgusting. The floors are slippery and dangerous, if you do happen to skid on them you are likely to be manhandled out for "being too drunk". I'm not sure how this business is surviving, and can only guess it is down to the lack of variety in Exeter. Also not sure how they operate but the £5 cash only entrance fee is also suspicious- I don't know of anywhere that doesn't have a card machine these days. Either way, do not waste your money by coming here as it will spoil your night. My review is not an isolated account, so many people have had the exact same experiences so save yourself the hassle and go somewhere else!!

I'm transgender and this is the only safe place to be on a night out in Exeter. Friendly door staff who look after your well-being if you have too much and who don't let the riff-raff start any trouble.