Discover Uffculme: A Historic Devon Village in the Heart of the Blackdown Hills
Tucked away in the scenic Blackdown Hills Natonal Landscape, Uffculme is a characterful village and civil parish in Mid Devon, South West England. With its rich industrial heritage, strong community spirit, and fantastic location near Cullompton, the M5 motorway, and the Bristol-Exeter railway line, Uffculme is a hidden gem worth exploring.
A Village Steeped in History
Ancient Roots
The name “Uffculme” is thought to mean “Uffa’s farm on the Culm” — a nod to Saxon heritage and the tranquil River Culm. The estate was gifted to Glastonbury Abbey by King Æthelwulf between 839 and 855 AD, cementing its place in early English history.
Woolly Fame
From the 16th century, Uffculme became a powerhouse in the West Country wool trade. Its peak came in the 18th century, with “Uffculme serges” being highly prized exports, especially to the Netherlands via Tiverton merchants.
Coldharbour Mill: Living Industrial Heritage
Founded in 1799, Coldharbour Mill was the village’s last working woollen mill. Today, it stands as one of the UK’s oldest working textile mills and a top visitor attraction, showcasing live steam engines and traditional spinning machinery.
Key Attractions & Things to Do in Uffculme
Coldharbour Mill Working Museum
Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of a Victorian wool mill in action. Great for families, heritage buffs, and steampunk enthusiasts alike.
St Mary’s Church
A striking historical church that survived a fireworks factory explosion in 1998 — a dramatic chapter in village history with no serious injuries but one heck of a story.
Bridwell Park Estate
An elegant Elizabethan manor with Victorian flair, Bridwell is home to a deer park, Orangery café, and private art events. Former home of the Walrond family and once a temporary exhibit space for Captain Cook artefacts.
Scenic Walks & Trails
Enjoy peaceful strolls along riverside paths and disused railway lines, remnants of the Culm Valley Light Railway (1876–1975). Now, they offer wildlife spotting and countryside tranquillity.
Why Visit Uffculme?
Uffculme isn’t just another Devon village — it’s a place where history, industry, and countryside charm collide. Whether you're tracing the steps of wool merchants, enjoying riverside walks, or browsing the market on a Saturday morning, Uffculme delivers rural magic with an edge of unexpected intrigue.
