South Molton
As the Gateway to Exmoor, South Molton makes a great base to explore the local area. Dating back to Saxon times, this classic British market town is formed around a pretty central square with impressive historic buildings to either side.
South Molton's textile history
The town is thought to have originated in Saxon times and has historically been one of much importance, having been recorded to have four priests, which is much higher than the average number. According to historians, the town has been thriving as a marketplace since the earliest records and residents still celebrate the charters granted by royalty for the market every June.
Originally, much of the town’s wealth is thought to come from the fact that it was an important centre of the UK’s wool trade. You can find out about this and much more by taking the town Heritage Trail or by visiting the award-winning local Museum to find out more.
Markets in South Molton
While the type of markets held at South Molton has changed over the years, they have kept much of their original feel and traditional markets take place twice a week in the main square. The square itself is surrounded by a number of small, independent shops, the fronts of which remain largely unchanged.
The markets are a great way to sample some of the area’s acclaimed local produce, with producers offering everything from home grown vegetables, locally prepared sausages and local fish.
This local produce can also be found at the various eateries in and around the town. South Molton has really built a reputation for the quality of its cafés, the majority of which serve locally sourced food and are wonderful places to stop and refresh while exploring. They are especially welcomed by those who have spent the day on Exmoor, as the town is just on the edge of the National Park. Even if you haven’t been having an adventure, the cafes are friendly and warm and offer a great place to while away the hours while people-watching.
The town is home to a number of independent shops selling everything from handmade chocolates to boutique homeware – perfect for holiday souvenirs!
Things to do in South Molton
One popular and unique gift is locally sourced honey from the nearby Quince Honey Farm. Not only is this a great source of local honey, which is used to make a whole host of products, from beauty items to candles and of course, edible ingredients, but is also a fun place to visit for the day. The farm allows you to see the world’s largest exhibition of honey bees up close, as well as showing you how honey is farmed and of course, there are a whole host of themed activities and workshops being held there all year around.
With a programme of lively events throughout the year, there’s always something going on in South Molton – from vintage rallies to celebrations of the town’s agricultural heritage.
What's On
Ceramics Residency Exhibition: Platter by Florence Dwyer
Our Ceramic Artist in Residence Florence Dwyer has been creating work in response to the RJ Lloyd…
February Half Term and Guess How Much I Love You™ Trail
Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare are hopping over to RHS Garden Rosemoor in 2025. Starting…
February Half Term Fun
Feb Half Term Fun Experience exhilarating fun at The Big Sheep this February Half Term, where you…
Other Worlds: New Works from the Royal Society of Painter-Printmakers
Explore the vibrancy of contemporary printmaking in this exhibition that brings together new work by…
Wild about spring trail at Arlington Court
Pick up a free trail sheet from visitor reception and journey around the grounds to discover the…
Mermaids & Friends Craft Workshop
Dive into creativity at our FREE Mermaid Themed Craft Workshop! ♀️ Join us at Affinity Devon on…
Portrait Sculpture Course
Creating true likeness in portrait sculpture requires more than correctly reproducing features, for…
Pirates & Parrots Themed Craft Workshop
Set sail to Affinity Devon on Thursday, February 20th, for our Pirate Themed Craft Workshop! Create…
Mid Winter Concert
Free Mid Winter Matinee Concert for all the family by Bideford Town Band
Flower resin workshop
With spring time just around the corner, join us in this fun and friendly crafting workshop to bring…
Ed Byrne: Tragedy Plus Time
From the quote attributed to Mark Twain, humour is defined as Tragedy Plus Time. Come and join one…
Community Open Weekend
At this time of year, our beautiful garden is literally bursting into life. Relax on a peaceful…
RHS Rosemoor Wedding Fayre
Getting Married? Join us at RHS Rosemoor for North Devon's New 2 Day Wedding Fayre! With space…
Lions and Tigers and Bears with Gordon Buchanan
Award-winning wildlife photographer and filmmaker Gordon Buchanan will hit the road in 2025 bringing…
Taste of Sculpture
This fabulous one day sculpting experience will give you the opportunity to create a realistic…
Spring Flower Showcase
. In addition to the RHS Early Camellia Competition, the show includes classes for ornamental shrubs…
Spring & Summer Foraging Courses with Wild Food UK: Bideford
Uncover the incredible variety of edible treasures hiding in the great outdoors. From wild mushrooms…
The Best Of Grohl (Foo Fighters, Nirvana, QOTSA)
Foo Fighters | Nirvana | QOTSA The Best Of Grohl is the ultimate rock show based in the UK dedicated…
Pine martens in Exmoor - Evening Talk
Come along to our next evening talk at Quince Honey Farm and learn more about the recovery of pine…
Willow Heart Workshop
In this fun and friendly workshop you will discover the art of willow weaving, learning the basic…