Local Attractions & Links
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Here are just some of the many wonderful attractions & events you can find within easy reach of The Old Vicarage. If you would like any more information about the local area and attractions please don't hesitate to contact us.
You can also find information and links to local amenities, services, and trusted local companies on this page.
1 Antiques
Devon County Antiques Fair
With up to 500 stands of quality antiques, fine art, furniture and decorative items in one hall, these fairs offer a superlative range of the very best of antiques and collectables. Among the estimated one million items exhibited at these fairs, prices can range from as little as a few pounds to many thousands for rare and specialist pieces ensuring they offer something for everyone.
Honiton
Honiton is famous for lace making and is also a major centre for antiques, with shops devoted to art, furniture and second-hand books.
http://www.devon-online.com/towns/honiton/honiton.htm
Yarrow
Yarrow is spread through two late Georgian town houses in the East Devon town of Honiton. The 12 main showrooms on two floors are individually decorated in a number of styles, many rooms decorated with Trompe l'oeil, handpainted, and block-printed walls. To the rear of the showrooms is an extensive garden with numerous courtyards, terraces, pergolas, follies and a summerhouse. Both the garden and showrooms are full of unique and one-off items of furniture, statuary and objects of virtue, collected and commissioned by James Yarrow and Sarah Wolfe.
2 Days out with the children
Becky Falls Woodland Park
Situated in Manaton near Bovey Tracey and voted ‘Devon's Top Beauty Spot’, Becky Falls Woodland Park has been attracting visitors for over 100 years and with its unique mix of animals and adventure appeals to both young and old explorers alike.
Bicton Park Botanical Gardens
The superbly landscaped park combines 18th century tranquillity with modern amenities to provide enjoyment for everyone, of all ages, throughout the four seasons with magnificent historic gardens, a museum and indoor and outdoor children's play areas.
Branscombe
Branscombe combines woodland and steeply sloping farmland with dramatic coastal scenery. Its flat-topped hills, deep-cut valleys, copses and hedges frame the view from the shingle beach, beyond which the water provides safe and pleasant swimming. There are several pubs in the village and Trust-owned stone-built properties which are open to the public (with working demonstrations), including a forge, bakery and mill.
http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-daysout/w-daysout-coast/w-daysout-coast-west_country.htm
Crealy Adventure Park
Join Crealy’s Maximum Fun, magic and adventure for an unforgettable family experience with Tidal Wave log flume, El Pastil Loco Rollercoaster, Queen Bess Pirate Ship, Techno Race Karts, Bumper Boats, Victorian Carousel, animal handling and huge indoor and outdoor play areas - the South West’s favourite family attraction!
Escot Gardens, Park and Maze
Refreshingly uncommercial parkland containing an ark-full of animals, paths, trails, vistas, flowers, shrubs, trees, mazes and stunning woodland with events all year.
Lotstodo.co.uk
Everything you need for a great day out in Devon can be found at Lotstodo.co.uk, the website of the Devon Association of Tourist Attractions (DATA), an organisation that represents the top attractions in Devon.
Otterton Mill
Set beside the River Otter in one of Devon's most beautiful valleys and just a mile or so from East Devon's magnificent world heritage coast, Otterton Mill is an altogether different kind of experience. A centuries old working watermill, a famous bakery and shop full of superb local produce, a fabulous restaurant serving food to die for and a gallery selling work from a selection of the best artists from Devon, Dorset and Somerset. The Mill also promotes world class music and is now recognised as the south west’s leading roots music venue. There is an annual programme of other events catering for all age groups, for instance to celebrate national apple day.
Pecorama
Pecorama, at Beer in East Devon, is home to the award-winning Beer Heights Light Railway, PECO Model Railway Exhibition and also now the PECO Millennium Celebration Garden.
A fleet of one diesel and five steam miniature locomotives pulls passenger carrying trains on a mile long route through the grounds, over bridges, through steep-sided cuttings and a long dark tunnel.
Powderham Castle
Powderham Castle lies in a beautiful deer park setting on the banks of the River Exe, just a stone's throw from the historic cathedral city of Exeter. Chosen from over 200 applicants as a finalist in the 'Tourism Oscars' - The South West Tourism Excellence awards and achieving 3rd place overall, this is a reflection of the many improvements the attraction has seen over the past 2 years; the children's play area, activity trails and the Victorian Kitchen, all enhancing visitors' experience.
The Donkey Sanctuary
Just outside the town of Sidmouth, The Donkey Sanctuary is home to over 400 of the 12,000 rescued and unwanted donkeys in its care at its various farms throughout the UK and Ireland. Set in unspoilt farmland and countryside, visitors return time and again to meander among the donkeys and absorb the serene and relaxed surroundings. The Sanctuary offers fun and interactive workshops for children during the school holidays including 'hands on' grooming with the friendly donkeys, storytelling and various arts and crafts activities.
The Seaton Tramway
Seaton Tramway operates narrow gauge heritage trams between Seaton, Colyford and Colyton in East Devon's glorious Axe Valley, travelling alongside the River Axe estuary through two nature reserves and giving an unrivalled view of the abundant wading bird life. Pecorama’s diary of events includes Punch & Judy shows, barbecues, local carnival information and bird watching trips.
3 Events, festivals and farmers markets
Beautiful Days
Beautiful Days is the Levellers festival and has music across five stages, family camping, a huge children’s area, food & craft stalls, real ale bars and amazing site art. You can see the full line-ups from the past 5 years on the festival website along with photo galleries.
Farmers Markets & Food Events
Devon, with its proud farming tradition and green credentials, is a great place to look for really fresh seasonal produce and organic food at its best. Whether you are looking for inspiration for a special meal, delicious ideas for picnics or just the pleasure of admiring real food, be sure to wander round our regular Farmers' Markets around the county, where you will find a wide range of superb local produce and expertly prepared food and drink. Full information about dates and locations can be found at:
http://www.discoverdevon.com/food/farmers-markets-and-food-events
Honiton Street Market & Farmers Market
Honiton’s street markets attract people from a wide area. Held every Tuesday and Saturday throughout the year in the High Street, there is a wonderful friendly, bustling atmosphere, and you can buy everything from antiques and bric-a-brac to clothing, fresh produce, plants and flowers, and crafts. In addition, on the third Thursday of each month, a farmers’ market is held in St Paul’s church yard in High Street or the Lace Walk car park, with around 30 stalls offering local products including quality meats, dairy products, bread, eggs, fruit, herbs, plants, flowers and local crafts. The town also has a cattle market each Tuesday.
http://www.devon24.co.uk/flatfiles/holidayguide/honiton.aspx
Live Music
To view listings of open air concerts and live music events in the south west visit:
Sidmouth Folk Festival
If you’ve been to Sidmouth Festival before, you’ll know all about having a whole week filled with music, singing, dancing, pub sessions, workshops, concerts, storytelling, cream teas, lying on the beach, Late Night Extra, and sitting up late on the campsite with brand new best friends. If you’ve never been, think of Folk Week as more like a collection of small festivals in the same place at the same time, with something for everyone and a very friendly atmosphere.
4 Local Area
Blackdown Hills
The Westcountry’s hidden gem; the Blackdown Hills form a tranquil, beautiful and relatively isolated landscape on the Devon / Somerset border. Steep ridges, high plateaux, valleys and springs create a stunning mosaic of countryside dotted with farms, villages and ancient features.
Broadhembury
Broadhembury takes its name from Hembury Fort on a spur of the Blackdown Hills, the finest earth-work in Devon. In the heart of the village lies a little cluster of cob-and-thatch cottages interrupted only by the local post office and the infamous pub which blend in perfectly with the timeless ambiance of the village. There are numerous short walks to enjoy in and around the village, and enthusiasts will love the 14th Century Church with its fine Western tower, stunning window tracery and Beer stone arcades.
http://www.picturesofengland.com/England/Devon/Broadhembury/pictures
Dartmoor
Dartmoor is wild in places, rugged and waiting for you to explore and enjoy. Amongst the first to have their inspiration and imagination captured by Dartmoor were poets, painters, writers and musicians. In more recent years, the magic and mystery of Dartmoor has woven its spell over an ever increasing number of people of all ages and walks of life who simply enjoy the great outdoors. From spectacular, wide, open moorland to more secluded and sheltered tree-lined river valleys, Dartmoor has so much to offer all year round.
Exeter Cathedral
Should you visit Exeter Cathedral, you will be struck by its beauty and antiquity. The imposing Norman towers dating from the early 12th Century were retained when Bishop Bronescombe, influenced by the magnificent new Gothic (Early English) cathedral at Salisbury, decided on a grandiose rebuilding in 1270. The work took nearly a Century but resulted in a wonderful Cathedral Church in Decorated Gothic style, prompting Bishop Grandisson (1327-69) to write to Pope John XXII praising its splendours.
Exmoor
Exmoor National Park is the place to explore and discover; somewhere where you’ll have a truly memorable experience. There’s something for everyone – for amblers and ramblers, cyclists, horseriders, nature nuts and solitude seekers.
Hembury Fort
By far the most interesting Iron Age hill fort in the region lies three miles northwest of Honiton at Hembury Castle (ST1103). Excavations during the 1980s within the hill fort’s defences revealed evidence of Roman activity in the form of military style rectangular wooden huts, mainly granaries and storehouses which covered about half of the fort’s interior. Roman occupancy has been dated to the early 50s AD.
http://www.roman-britain.org/places/hembury.htm
http://www.jstottphotography.com/welcome_to_hembury_hill_fort_devon__photo.php?p=&s=82
Topsham
Topsham has a rich and varied history. First documented as a Roman settlement, it was granted a Charter as a town on 22nd August 1300 by Edward I, developing into a major British port and shipbuilding centre that in its heyday rivalled London. There are Dutch houses from this maritime past, and fine examples of Georgian and Edwardian architecture. In the year 2000 we celebrated our 700th year, when the Queen visited and went to a pub for the first time!
5 Museums & Galleries
Allhallows Museum
In the town famous for lace making Allhallows Museum has one of the most comprehensive collections of Honiton lace in the world.
Chagford Galleries - Dartmoor
The Gallery specialises in work by Dartmoor arts and crafts people plus locally-crafted jewellery, pottery & sculpture. There is always a wide variety of original artwork on display including local views.
The Phoenix Arts Centre
In the heart of the city, Exeter Phoenix presents a unique and exciting contemporary programme of dance, theatre, live art, music, spoken word, film and visual art.
6 Shops & Restaurants
6a Shops
Bel-Ami Antiques & Interiors
The philosophy at Bel-Ami is to create a unique shopping experience. There are 3 rooms packed full of antiques, objets d’art, interiors and gifts as well as a gallery running regular exhibitions of art from Devon and beyond.
Bennetts of Honiton
Here you will find ideas for birthdays, anniversaries and things that will be just right for someone special, maybe to cheer them up or to remind them that they are loved.
Caramel Clothing
A ladies clothing boutique with stores in Honiton and Exmouth, Caramel stocks some leading designer brands and is arguably the best clothes shop in the area. The team are all trained to provide a "personal shopper" service, and with excellent brands to choose from, can put together an outfit that is perfect for all styles, shapes and occasions.
Common Loaf Bakery
Common Loaf Bakery is a cottage industry run by a small group of families and single people who live together on Stentwood Farm in Dunkeswell. 'Common Loaf' bread is not ordinary bread like that made in big factories and sold through chains of big stores. It's made according to traditional recipes without compromise. The cost of materials and time involved in making these kinds of bread would be impossible but for the way of life of the Community at Stentwood Farm. Visitors are welcome.
Dart's Farm Shopping Village
Located in Topsham near Exeter, Dart's Farm offers a wide range of local farm and other high quality produce. Interrupt your shopping by stopping at the Food Hall, Deli Bar, Restaurant, Fish Shed, Cider Works and Ale Houses. Pamper youreslf in the Treatment Loft or Pilates Studio. Shop at Fired Eearth Interiors, Orange Tree, The Aga Shop, Cotswold Outdoor or browse the impressive selection of children's clothing and toys.
Haughty Culture
Haughty Culture Florists is made up of a small team of qualified florists who provide a professional, personal and friendly service to all their clients. Haughty Culture has built a reputation for providing beautiful, contemporary floral arrangements for all occasions.
Joshua's Harvest Store
If you appreciate natural, wholesome food at realistic prices, you'll love Joshua's. Devon's leading specialist whole food and gift store is set in the heart of the English countryside - just a stone's throw from Exeter. Regular customers travel for miles to stock up with fresh ingredients of the highest quality - including scrumptious home cooked ready meals and gold award winning cakes, all produced on site in Joshua's kitchens.
Orb
Orb is a recent, bright addition to Ottery St. Mary and aims to ensure that residents of Ottery as well as visitors to the area can shop locally for that elusive gift – Haynes memorabilia, designer mugs in gift boxes, funky picture frames and plants in a tin – quirky and fun.
Otter Nurseries
Otter Nurseries is a long established, family run garden centre that celebrates the joy of gardening, home and leisure. Situated in Ottery St Mary and with over 75% of their thousands of quality plants grown in their own nurseries, this is a convenient and relaxed out of town shopping experience with masses of free parking, for making leisurely purchases of quality plants, home and leisure goods.
Princesshay
Princesshay is a new shopping and leisure development in Exeter with over sixty shops, cafés and restaurants, as well as the delivery of 123 apartments, further increasing the city’s sense of vibrancy and confidence. Visitors and shoppers to the region’s capital will be treated to a sensational line up of free street entertainment ahead of Exeter City Council’s Exeter Summer Festival 2008 being at the Princesshay Quarter in Exeter, every lunchtime between 12pm – 2pm from Friday 6th - Sunday 15th June.
6b Restaurants
Bel-Ami Cafe and Gallery, Honiton
This treasure trove of a shop/gallery/antique and interior dealers has a very welcoming café offering all day light bites, sumptuous cakes, treats and speciality teas, coffees and juices; a lovely place to take the load off after a long trek along the high street.
Bird's Nest Chinese Restaurant & Takeaway, Honiton
A modern Chinese restaurant with a very pleasant interior and small outdoor seating area offering delicious and fresh Chinese classics cooked to the highest standards. The fresh fish specials are particularly noteworthy.
Cafe Bar 102, Honiton
Extremely pleasant and popular licensed café bar in the centre of Honiton which is currently under new ownership and has undergone dramatic renovations to the interior and exterior garden area. Head chef Pierre is updating and transforming the kitchen to prepare for their relaunch as a restaurant in July. This is the place to be on a Friday and Saturday night!
http://www.donowdo.com/Pubs-Bars-and-Wine-Bars/Cafe-Bar-102-Honiton-EX14-1JW.htm
Combe House, Gittisham
If you are looking for a restaurant which serves great food and offers exciting wines, specially selected by passionate wine lovers and in an unbeatably romantic setting, you will love the restaurant at Combe House – voted ‘South West Restaurant of the Year 2006’ and awarded a Michelin Rising Star. Just ten minutes drive away, Combe House is a recommended venue for lunch and afternoon tea/coffee, is open all year, and visitors are always made welcome.
Deer Park Country Hotel, Weston
Set in 80 acres of stunning grounds overlooking classic Devon countryside and the meandering River Otter, the Deer Park is a quintessential English country house hotel where a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere combines with excellent service and exquisite food to create a truly unique destination.
Fishponds House Country Hotel, Dunkeswell
Set in 45 acres of tranquil Devonshire parkland, this country house hotel has a restaurant and bar which are open to the public and where you can sample a variety of home-cooked meals or have a pint of the locally brewed Otter ales.
Home Farm Restaurant & Hotel, Wilmington
Originally a 16th century thatched farmhouse, Home Farm is now an intimate hotel and fine dining restaurant that caters for both the comfort of the holidaymaker and the needs of the business traveler.
Michael Caines Restaurant at Abode, Exeter
Abode Exeter, overlooking Exeter's magnificent Cathedral, provides a stunning setting for what has already become Exeter's premier dining venue. The light and spacious dining room is at once beautiful yet not overly formal. This sets the tone for Michael Caines cuisine that is similarly considered, produced from the freshest seasonal and local produce and ingredients.
River Cottage Local Store & Canteen, Axminster
The River Cottage Local Produce Store and Canteen was opened in the Autumn of 2007 and already the response has been fantastic. Located in the centre of Axminster on Trinity Square, Hugh and his team at River Cottage have set up the store as a real alternative to the supermarket stocking a wide selection of every day food items as well as a range of books and smallholder supplies plus a specially chosen British wine, beers and spirits list. The canteen also showcases the very best of what the South West has to offer and what is in season and therefore the menus are changed daily.
Taste of Bengal, Honiton
An exceptional Indian restaurant which has won an accolade of awards and prepares fresh and delicious Asian cuisine time after time. The chef’s specialities are brilliant and the atmosphere is relaxed and informal.
http://www.thefoodplace.co.uk/restaurants/52506/Taste of Bengal in Honiton/
The Holt Bar & Restaurant, Honiton
As one of the best places to eat in the beautiful market town of Honiton, everything is produced from the open kitchen so there is always an extra buzz to eating here. Under the watchful eye of Head Chef Angus McCaig, menus changes every six to eight weeks and showcase a plethora of local suppliers. Definitely worth a visit.
The Honiton Wine Bar
The Honiton Wine Bar occupies one of the earliest dwelling houses in Honiton, built just after the fire of 1765. Both its exterior and interior are quirky and individual with old wooden beams and original exposed brick walls. The relaxed atmosphere of The Wine Bar and the warm welcome from its proprietors combined with a traditional but reliably consistent menu make this a very enjoyable place to wine and dine.
The King's Arms Stockland
A charming and traditional pub set in the beautiful village of Stockland which has a great reputation amongst the locals as well as people visiting the area for its fully licensed restaurant and bar, guest ales and live music.
The Railway Inn, Honiton
The new owners of this modern restaurant have created a warm and relaxed environment where the emphasis is on good quality food with real ales and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Tuckers Arms, Dalwood
This is a beautiful old English pub with a thatched roof, low beamed ceilings, flag stone floors & inglenook fireplaces. The menu features fresh fish & game, locally caught crab, lobster & lemon sole, supplemented by imaginative starters, super homemade sweets, local cheeses & clotted cream.
7 Sport & Leisure
Quad World
For all terrain off road motor sports family fun and excitement, visit Quad World near Cullompton where bike racing and tuition is offered for all levels of ability as well as beginners.
The Devon & Somerset Gliding Club
The premier gliding site in the South West, situated in North Hill near Dunkeswell, offers pilot training in its modern fleet of two seat gliders and the opportunity to fly single seat gliders once qualified. Training is carried out by BGA (British Gliding Association) qualified instructors.
Thorn Park Golf Centre
The Thorn Park Golf Centre is situated in 30 acres of beautiful Devon countryside, at Salcombe Regis, near Sidmouth in East Devon. All standards of golf are catered for from beginners to experienced golfers. There is a 300 metre floodlit driving range, a 9 hole pitch and putt course, a chip and bunker practice area, children's crazy golf and more.
Woodbury Park Hotel, Golf & Country Club
Woodbury Park offers the ultimate challenge in golf with over 350 acres of typical lush green Devon countryside featuring mature Oak lined fairways and natural lakes.
8 The Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast
The Dorset and East Devon coast World Heritage Site is England’s first natural World Heritage Site known as the Jurassic Coast. It covers 95 miles of truly stunning coastline from East Devon to Dorset with rocks recording 185 million years of the Earth’s history. World Heritage status was achieved because of the site’s unique insight in to the Earth Sciences as it clearly depicts a geological ‘walk through time’ spanning the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.
For information about gateway towns and villages to the Jurassic coastline please visit: http://www.jurassiccoast.com
You may also want to visit East Devon Holiday Cottages iknow-devon.co.uk.