If you’re the kind of person who loves the great outdoors and want to get lost in nature, you’ll find plenty to entertain you here in Honiton.
As it is located within the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you’ll have an abundance of walks, cycle trails and outdoor space for all manner of pursuits right at your fingertips. The Jurassic Coast and South West Coast Path are just a few miles away too, giving you easy access to a host of pretty seaside towns, coastal walks and the chance to do a bit of fossil hunting.
Honiton is not only close to the coast, but after you visit, will become close to your heart.
Traditional events
Traditional charm and a welcoming spirit will await you in Honiton.
The town proudly celebrates its history and heritage throughout the year and if you want to create memories you’ll never forget, then a must see event is known as Honiton Hot Pennies Day. The day dates back to the 13th Century and sees a procession throwing hot pennies to gathered children (although, these days, the pennies are merely warm!) The tradition harks back to the time of landowners and tenants and became a celebration after the town was given a royal charter allowing it to hold its first ever market. It is certainly worth hanging around to watch – the tradition doesn’t exist in many other places in the UK.
Powered by nature and fuelled by perfection, Honiton loves to celebrate its local produce and every summer, Gate to Plate, a one-day festival, takes place in the through High Street. The aim is to highlight the best of the district's outstanding food and drink producers by creating a fantastic event where people can enjoy delicious locally produced food and drink and experience the traditional local craft skills.
Another thriving event, that is a must visit, is the Honiton & District Agricultural show. Held annually, on the first Thursday in August, it has grown to be one of the largest one-day agricultural shows in the country. It attracts more than 20,000 visitors, over 1,000 livestock entries and more than 400 trade exhibitors making it one of the biggest events in East Devon.
The show has a unique atmosphere blending traditional and new and is a showcase for the best of local farming, produce, crafts and rural skills.
History and heritage
Honiton takes its history and heritage very seriously and there are a host of activities which celebrate this heritage taking place all year around.
One place to find out more about this is to visit the town’s museum where you can watch a variety of lace making workshops. At one time, Honiton was famous for the quality of its lace and pottery – so much so that Queen Victoria’s wedding dress was made out of Honiton lace. During the school holidays, you’ll find a range of themed events and activities taking place throughout East Devon, so there is never a dull moment!
The town is a hub for those that crave a bit of culture. With galleries, museums and classes allowing you to explore your creative side, there is plenty to keep you entertained during your visit.
It is truly a gateway to the west country, there are excellent transport links with direct lines to London and just minutes from the airport and the A30, allowing you to truly discover the vibrant tapestry of East Devon.
With so much traditional influence, are you ready to turn back time?
