Whether you like a quieter pace or you’re someone who likes to be in the middle of the action, Mid Devon is a great destination. This part of Devon gives you easy access to the two National Parks and the coast and the countryside, making it a great option for explorers and for those of you who want peace and tranquillity. Everywhere you look you’re surrounded with beautiful countryside and there are loads of top attractions to keep you entertained too. No trip to Mid Devon is complete without a stop off in Tiverton.
As the heart of the county, Tiverton is a convenient base but is also a great destination in its own right. With fascinating heritage right on the doorstep, like horse drawn barges, a castle and stately homes, as well as a host of markets and plenty of comfortable places to stay.
Here’s our suggestions for things to do on a day out in Tiverton
Check out the local history
Tiverton is one of those places that just feels like it is steeped in history and heritage. Take a stroll along the Grand Western Canal and visit the Tiverton Canal Company, where you can stop off at the visitor’s centre and learn some more about the canal’s history. While you’re there, hop on board a horse drawn barge – one of the last in the country and see the sights in whole new way!
Elsewhere in Tiverton, you’ll find National Trust Killerton with some of the finest gardens in the South West. Killerton is a beautiful Gothic style house with 300 acres of parkland and woodland and lots of places to explore.
Enjoy some seasonal walks
Being surrounded by countryside, there are plenty of places to enjoy an autumnal walk. From the Grand Western Canal to the woodlands surrounding the Killerton estate. Other nearby places to enjoy being outdoors and seeing the seasons change include Fursdon House and Gardens. As one of Devon’s oldest family homes, Fursdon is a delight for history fans and those that love to see the seasons change. With views across the parkland and over to Dartmoor, it’s a great place for a scenic walk. Just don’t forget to stop off at the tea room for a traditional Cream Tea!
Enjoy some of Devon’s top attractions
Everywhere you go in Devon there are family friendly attractions to enjoy and Tiverton is no different. With a host of activities at the canal including canoe and rowing boat hire, there is also the Devon Railway Centre, which has fun for the whole family. Here you have the chance to drive your own train and cars, visit the museum and play a host of interactive games!
Close by, you’ll also find Coldharbour Mill, one of the oldest woollen mills in the UK that has been in continuous production since 1797 and the Bear Trail, the region’s muddiest assault course that the kids love!
Grab some great food
We’ve already mentioned the incredible cream teas on offer at Fursdon and of course, you can indulge in some scones and other treats with the National Trust at Killerton but that’s not where the delicious food stops. The Exeter Inn has all the original rustic characteristics of a traditional tap house, with Sunday dinner, light bites for lunch, breakfast and more on offer daily. As well as being a great spot for some refreshments, the Exeter Inn also has accommodation options – ideal if you like the sound of starting your day with one of their breakfasts!
While you’re exploring the Grand Western Canal, stop off at Devon’s only canal barge café. Duck’s Ditty Bar has a selection of light snacks, but the biggest draw is the real ale and ciders – all from the West Country and their traditional style soft drinks! Who doesn’t want a glass of bubbly or two while watching the world drift past?
Great places to stay
Tiverton is a popular place to stay, not only because of its proximity to Exeter and the fact that you are well placed for exploring the whole of the county, but also because it is picturesque and peaceful. The Tiverton Hotel is just ten minutes from the M5 and gives you easy access to the road network so you can explore at your leisure. With a range of rooms to suit your needs and budget, The Tiverton Hotel offers a variety of stays, from family holidays to solo visits and corporate trips.
Fancy a B&B rather than a hotel? Check out the Devon Farms and Country Stays portfolio – they have properties all over the county, including in and around Tiverton.
Don’t forget the Exeter Inn and Fursdon both also offer accommodation and you can also stay at Tiverton Castle!
Want to find out more and plan your trip to Tiverton?
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