A Tale Through Time

When you visit Ottery St Mary, you'll find a place that beautifully combines the past and the present, creating a captivating destination that exudes history, tradition, and forward-thinking vision. Experience the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences.

History and Heritage

There are plenty of things to do in Ottery St Mary and the town proudly showcases its rich history, evident in its architectural treasures. The Grade 1 listed church, reminiscent of Exeter Cathedral, stands as a testament to the past, dating back to 1260. Other parts of the town, such as the picturesque triangle area of Gold Street and Silver Street, harken back to the Georgian era. As you explore, you'll come across 15 blue plaques, unveiling fascinating snippets of Ottery St Mary's history. This storied past has inspired renowned literary figures like Coleridge, who once called this town home, as well as Thackeray and JK Rowling, among others.

Sustainability is the key

While Ottery St Mary cherishes its heritage, it also looks towards the future. The town aspires to be sustainable, placing a strong emphasis on supporting local producers and farm shops. Nearby eateries proudly feature menus brimming with locally grown produce, showcasing the community's commitment to preserving the natural landscape and ensuring its beauty and sustainability for generations to come.

A visit to Ottery St Mary is a journey through time, where you can immerse yourself in the richness of history while witnessing a community that values sustainability and embraces the future. Explore the fascinating historical sites, savour the flavours of locally sourced cuisine, and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds this extraordinary town. Ottery St Mary awaits, ready to leave you with cherished memories of a place that harmoniously weaves together the past and the present.

Explore Ottery St Mary

Explore Ottery's heritage

To discover a tale through time, follow Ottery's Heritage Walk. Highlighting fascinating heritage architecture and iconic landmarks, it is a great way to explore medieval buildings, including the famous parish church. 

See more options for walks below.

Read more about Ottery St Mary

sunset over river otter

Wild swimming spots in East Devon

  • 3 minute read

Wild swimming is quickly becoming a hugely popular activity across the UK, with many people joining clubs or going on organised walks and swims and others just heading to well known rivers, estuaries and other swimming spots to try it out for themselves. In East Devon, there are several great places…

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child on a bike

Suggestions for a day out with your bike

  • 1 minute read

East Devon is a great place to visit if you’re planning to spend time enjoying the great outdoors – not only do you have the incredible Jurassic Coast but there is also the East Devon National Landscape and the East Devon Way – the chances to get out and about are endless! If you’re staying in or…

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Roberts under new management

Roberts under new management

  • 1 minute read

The team at Roberts on Broad Street in Ottery St Mary have been celebrating two milestones recently. Firstly, the retirement of stalwart Ros, who has owned the store for years and then the reopening of Roberts under new management. Roberts have been an integral part of Ottery St Mary for…

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Pixie statues and children dressed as Ottery pixies

Join us for Pixie Day!

  • 2 minute read

If you’re planning a trip to Ottery St Mary this month, make sure to time it around 22 nd June for a chance to see one of the town’s best loved traditional events. Pixie Day is taking place on 22 nd June and whether you believe that pixies once lived in the town causing mischief or not, it is…

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Ottery History and Heritage

Things you might not know about Ottery St Mary

  • 1 minute read

As one of the oldest parishes in Devon, there is a diverse history to uncover in Ottery St Mary and that’s not all. Just how well do you know the town? Here’s some trivia to amaze your friends and family next time you visit. Ottery St Mary is the birthplace of the poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge, who…

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blue plaque

Where to see Ottery’s heritage

  • 4 minute read

If you’re a history buff, you’ll love spending time in East Devon – aside from the Jurassic Coast itself which dates back millions of years, there are also Iron Age forts, Roman roads and a host of other interesting figures and stories. There has been a settlement at Ottery St Mary for centuries…

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