Experience autumn in Honiton

Nestled beside the breathtaking landscapes of the Blackdown Hills Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a visit to Honiton offers a gateway to the enchanting wonders of East Devon. Perfect for autumnal walks and conveniently situated within easy reach of both the A303 and the M5, this charming town is an ideal base for exploring the beauty and heritage of Devon and beyond.

For nature enthusiasts, Honiton boasts an abundance of countryside walks and cycling routes right on its doorstep, giving you lots of ways to enjoy the natural world this half term. From gentle strolls through scenic meadows to exhilarating hikes along rugged trails, outdoor adventurers will find their perfect escape amidst the rolling hills and lush valleys that surround the town.

Laced in tradition

Honiton is one of the region’s most fascinating historical towns. At one point, it was incredibly famous for the quality of lace made here. The lace was so sought after and such a high quality in fact that it was used to make Queen Victoria’s wedding dress for her marriage to Prince Albert. It wasn’t just the royal wedding gown created using Honiton lace – there are a host of beautiful garments and other items with historical significance, make sure to visit the Allhallows Museum where you can view exhibits made up of a selection of some of the best loved pieces.

It wasn’t just lace that put Honiton on the map, it was also well known for its pottery production and to this day, is still widely regarded as the antiques hub of the South West.

History and tradition continue to play a huge part in day to day life here in Honiton, something that is evident in the town’s regular events, including the Agricultural Show which has been taking place for hundreds of years. Another must see is the town’s Hot Pennies Day. Hosted every July, visitors can see warmed pennies thrown from pub windows as a way of commemorating how the wealthy landowners of the region would throw hot pennies to the poor as part of a cruel sport. These days though, the whole thing is much more fun! Music lovers will also love the biannual Honiton Festival which celebrates local classical music and art.

Explore East Devon from here

Beyond its natural beauty and cultural offerings, Honiton is strategically located to explore the wider East Devon. Be it an exciting day trip to nearby coastal towns, an exploration of the mystical moors, or a visit to other charming Devonshire villages, Honiton's central position makes it an excellent starting point for various adventures.