History fanatics are in for an absolute treat in West Devon. Ancient settlements, magnificent monasteries, folklore sites and churches built hundreds of years ago can be discovered here. In fact, thousands of people flock here each year just to explore our fascinating history and heritage.
The first settlers of Dartmoor were hunter-gathers; you can find archaeological evidence of this occupation all across the land. Stone circles, granite crosses and remains of bronze age huts can be found whilst trekking the unadulterated terrain. Grimspound, Nine Stone Circle and Spinster’s Rock are just some of Dartmoor’s historical landmarks worth visiting.
Dartmoor is also the setting for many a folklore tale. Stories of pixies, ghosts, witches and the devil himself have been passed down from generation to generation. According to legends, the ghost of Lady Howard haunts the remains of Okehampton Castle, whilst the Dewerstone, a site of an Iron Age Hill Fort, is where the Devil would chase weary travellers over the stone to their deaths.
Our towns boast their own fascinating histories; Tavistock and Chagford are stannary towns, of which there are only four of in Devon, renowned for the its contribution within the tin mining industry. Tavistock may be most famous for historically housing one of the South West’s most important Benedictine Abbey in which scattered remains can still be seen around the town today.
Interestingly, Tavistock is also the Eastern Gateway to the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape. This site was rewarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 2006, placing it on par with Stonehenge, Machu Picchu and The Great Wall of China. You can find out more about this at the Heritage Centre at Tavistock Guildhall.
Castles are in abundance here in West Devon. Okehampton Castle, Castle Drogo and Lydford Castle are the three that are absolutely worth visiting. Buckland Abbey, Morwellham Quay and Dartmoor Prison are all historically significant attractions in the region which provide an excellent day out for any history buffs!
We’re sure that wherever you visit in West Devon, you’ll have a wonderful time. Discover more things to do in the region here.
