Days out in...Devon

A day out in this region can have no more promising start than in Devon’s very own capital city, Exeter. This vibrant University city with its fabulous Cathedral also hosts one of the CCT’s most popular churches - St Martin’s.

Find out more about St Martin's Church, Exeter

Squashed next to a Medieval building in Cathedral Close, St Martin’s is one of the oldest churches in the city - originally serving a minute, but densely populated parish within the city where traders jostled to make a living.

Stepping out from this small church, look up and see the mighty Gothic Exeter Cathedral itself, a masterpiece of 10th-century architecture. This is a busy cathedral, boasting a lively programme of music and exhibitions throughout the year as well as housing library and archive facilities for those wishing to research. The cathedral also has an excellent café, suitable for a refuel at any point in the day, but for those with a sweet tooth it is worth noting that all cakes are made daily on the premises!

If you have the whole day, a short drive out of Exeter through winding country lanes will bring you to two more Trust gems - both on the outskirts of Newton Abbot but in real contrast to each other – so it's well worth trying to include both in your itinerary!

West Ogwell Church (pictured left) is small but full of Georgian elegance whereas Holy Trinity at Torbryan (pictured right) seems huge in its Gothic Perpendicular splendour.

Find out more about West Ogwell Church

Find out more about Holy Trinity Church, Torbryan

 

 

 

 

 

 

After visiting one or both of these lovely churches, the explorer has several interesting choices – both of them but a short drive.

The Finch Foundry at Sticklepath near Okehampton is well worth a visit as the last water powered forge in England. In its heyday the foundry produced more than 400 tools a day for West Country farmers and miners. Today, visitors can enjoy expert demonstrations followed by refreshments on site.

Alternatively, Castle Drogo at Drewsteignton, now a National Trust property, sits within its dramatic Dartmoor backdrop.

As well as the stunning building with its romantic story, Castle Drogo has lots of family friendly quizzes and trails and an excellent café which serves only locally produced food.

 

Useful links

Castle Drogo

The Finch Foundry

Exeter Cathedral

Visit Devon tourism website