Things to do Mid Devon

Staying in Mid Devon is the perfect spot to explore not only the heart of Devon but further east to the heart of Exeter and the picturesque Jurassic coastline. Situated between Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks both are within easy driving distance so you can enjoy the rolling hills and beautiful countryside including the Blackdown Hills an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The The Great Western Canal with a nature reserve stretching for 11 miles is a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You can see the horse drawn barges being gently pulled up and down the canal by the Tiverton Canal Company or hop on your bike and cycle along the miles of flat, scenic canal path. If your furry companion has come along on holiday then there are numerous dog-friendly walks and attractions in the area too.

The Mid Devon towns of Tiverton, Crediton, Cullompton and Chulmleigh have unique shops, cafes and pubs and you’ll find wonderful local, seasonal produce in the farm shops dotted around the region so you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to great days out in devon. In addition there are medieval churches and ancient castles to be explored and an abundance of cycling routes and walking trails to enjoy, a perfect place for families and couples of all ages.

Tiverton 
As well as the Grand Western Canal the town has some free walking trails highlighting the town’s wool and lace heritage. In its heyday (1500-1750) Tiverton was famous for the manufacture of woollen cloth. Thousands of people found work and merchants grew rich. The Merchants Trail can be followed around the town of today, look out for 5 panels that tell the merchants’ story and various pavement medallions mark the route. The West Exe Trail is an historic walk celebrating Tiverton’s lace making and architectural heritage. Walkers can discover how entrepreneur John Heathcoat’s arrival in Tiverton with his patented lace-machine inventions, and the Heathcoat family’s care for their workers, transformed this area from woollen cloth slump to lace-based prosperity. Free leaflets on both walks can be picked up from the Tiverton Tourist Information Centre. The Museum of Mid-Devon Life is worth a look as it has collections on local history, transport, agriculture and social history.

Crediton 
Crediton is a historic market town in a rich farming area with easy access to Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks and lies just seven miles from Exeter It nestles in the heart of an area of outstanding natural beauty and was the birthplace in 680AD of St Boniface, the Patron Saint of both Germany and Holland. The town is surrounded by peaceful countryside, beautiful woodland and rolling hills and there are many tucked away villages waiting to be discovered as you drive around the area. If you are looking for more adventure there are many activities close by including water sports, horse-riding, golf, fishing and rock-climbing. The high street boasts a great array of shops selling local produce including cheeses and high quality meat and game and its well worth making a visit to the farmer’s market on the first Saturday of the month.

Cullompton 
The historic market town of Cullompton is an easy place to visit just off the M5 motorway but nestles within the tranquil and scenic Culm Valley, and is home to one of the UK’s most magnificent churches and rare Oak trees.This countryside town has been the centre of rural live in Mid Devon for centuries. Like many Devon towns there are a multitude of footpaths and cycle trails to explore and the Cullompton Heritage Trail leads you around the town to its best landmarks and finest buildings. The town’s shops sell a variety of fresh, local produce and Cullompton’s award-winning farms market is well worth visiting to meet the producers who’ve grown or reared the food

Below are some excellent Devon attractions in Mid Devon and nearby.

If you are after things to do near Cullompton then head to Coldharbour Mill  and step back in time. It offers a unique insight into the industrial revolution and a well preserved working woollen mill.

Situated in Uffculme it’s one of the oldest woollen mills in the UK having been in continuous production since 1797. Originally owned by world-renowned textile producers Fox Brothers, the Mill took fleece from all over the world and transformed it into yarn, cloth and textiles. Today the rich heritage lives on as visitors are not just able to relive the sights and sounds of the industrial revolution but also see crafts men and women making traditional textiles, beautiful knitting yarn and hand woven rugs. Explore 12 acres of Victorian Woollen Mill, Boilers, Steam engines and Mill grounds. Discover our working and static exhibits, steam boilers and engines and discover more about how this ignited the industrial revolution in the southwest from the early 19th century. The 12 acre estate includes 10 acres of wetland, wildlife and Mill pond which is under restoration and the biggest 18th century breast-shot waterwheel still in action in the UK.

A visit to the Devon Railway Centre  is a great idea if you are looking for things to do with kids in Devon.

Jump on board for family fun in the Exe Valley, a unique railway experience! Indoor and outdoor railway themed attraction and fantastic entertainment in all weathers. Two train rides to enjoy; children clip the tickets and wave the flag to start the train! The model railway exhibition and Edwardian village incorporate interaction and learning, don’t forget the indoor railway themed soft play area and play coaches! Enjoy freshly prepared food at the Buffers Tea Room or simply relax with a cup of tea on the platforms.

A visit to Wildwood Escot is a winner if you are after some great Devon family days out. With 220 acres to explore you are in for a treat!

Where to start… amazing animals, world class beech hedge maze, outdoor adventure play, indoor soft play, traversing walls, drop slides, authentic Saxon village and winding trails through the tranquil woodland. Encounter wolves, bears, lynx, wild boar, wildcats, otters and  red squirrels; to get the best chance of seeing all these animals follow the timetable of feeds and public talks. Plenty to engage and entertain! Don’t forget lunch in the café and if the children still have some energy to burn off head for the indoor play area.

Find other nearby Devon attractions in East Devon here

Find more top Devon attractions in Exeter here