Visit Ivybridge

Tucked between the rolling South Devon countryside and the dramatic landscapes of Dartmoor, Ivybridge is a vibrant market town known as the official Gateway to Dartmoor. With its riverside charm, rich industrial heritage, and endless access to nature, Ivybridge offers a perfect blend of Devon countryside tranquillity and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re looking for scenic walks, historic landmarks, or a relaxing base to explore South Devon, Ivybridge is a welcoming and well-connected place to start your journey.

Things to Do in Ivybridge

Outdoor Adventures & Dartmoor Access

Ivybridge sits right on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, making it a dream destination for walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers. The Two Moors Way and Erme–Plym Trail begin here, offering stunning moorland walks, woodland routes, and river valleys rich in wildlife. You’re just minutes from open moorland, granite tors, and sweeping views that stretch across Devon’s heartland.

Cyclists will find excellent routes via National Cycle Network paths, while horse riders and runners also make the most of Ivybridge’s access to the moor.

Family-Friendly Exploring

Families will love the combination of nature, history, and play spaces in Ivybridge. The Longtimber Woods is a magical spot for woodland walks, paddling in the river, and letting kids roam wild in nature. Seasonal community events, outdoor theatre, and local festivals add to the welcoming, family-focused feel of the town.

Arts, Crafts & Community Spirit

Ivybridge has a growing reputation for local arts and creative industries. Visit The Watermark, the town’s cultural hub, where you can catch exhibitions, live performances, and workshops. The town also hosts regular craft markets and makers' fairs, showcasing the creativity of South Devon’s artisans and designers.

A Town Steeped in Heritage

Ivybridge has long been shaped by its rivers and mills. Once a hub of paper-making and wool production, the town grew up around the River Erme, which still flows through the town centre, tumbling over weirs and past the historic Ivy Bridge that gave the town its name. Today, Ivybridge celebrates its industrial past while offering a modern, community-focused town centre with independent shops, local cafes, and regular markets.

Explore the South Devon Railway Viaduct, a striking feat of Victorian engineering, or follow the Heritage Trail that winds through the town’s historic sites, from old mill ruins to charming chapels and workers’ cottages.

Nature & Wildlife

Nature is never far in Ivybridge. The River Erme flows through the heart of the town and is lined with scenic footpaths, wildlife-rich woodland, and peaceful picnic spots. Keep an eye out for kingfishers, herons, and even otters if you're lucky. The surrounding South Devon countryside is dotted with nature reserves and offers stunning contrasts between lush farmland and wild moorland.

Where to Stay

From countryside B&Bs and self-catering cottages to inns and nearby campsites, Ivybridge offers accommodation for every kind of traveller. Whether you want a peaceful base for Dartmoor hikes or a charming stay close to the town’s amenities, you’ll find comfort and convenience here.

Getting to Ivybridge

Ivybridge is conveniently located just off the A38, making it easy to reach from Plymouth, Exeter, and the rest of South Devon. The town also has a mainline rail station, connecting it directly to the national network. Once here, most attractions and walking routes are accessible on foot, making Ivybridge an ideal destination for car-free exploration.