Dunkeswell: Between Abbey Ruins and Aerodrome History

Dunkeswell combines the history of a former Cistercian abbey with an unusual aerodrome complex from the Second World War. In addition, there are active experiences at the aerodrome, bridleways and opportunities to watch flying operations. Anyone wishing to plan a trip combining culture, historical traces and special activities will find several different starting points here for their own itinerary.

Abbey History and Medieval Traces

Dunkeswell Abbey is a protected monument. The surviving remains include the standing and ground-preserved remains of a Cistercian abbey that was in use from 1201 to 1539, as well as associated fishponds. The ruins are visible from a public footpath. This means that the abbey’s history can be included in your trip even if you initially explore the site on a walk.

Another historical connection is shown by the Church of Holy Trinity: it was built in 1842 on the site of the former abbey church of Dunkeswell Abbey. The sanctuary contains medieval glazed floor tiles from the former abbey church. For travellers interested in culture, this creates a special connection between the former monastic site, the visible ruins and the preserved details in the later-built church. You can deliberately include the individual traces in your daily itinerary without confusing the different historical periods.

The Aerodrome as Part of the Local History

Dunkeswell Aerodrome lies in the heart of the Blackdown Hills. The group around Dunkeswell’s control tower is part of a rare, well-preserved Second World War aerodrome complex that is still used for flying. The Operations Block is also one of the defining historical sites: it was the nerve centre of US Navy operations in the Bay of Biscay area and is considered an unusually well-preserved example of a wartime operations building.

The United States Navy Fleet Air Wing Seven - WW2 memorial is located at the Dunkeswell Memorial Museum. Anyone interested in military history, aviation or the development of historic aerodromes can combine a museum visit with the other traces of the site. The history is not limited to past use, as flying operations continue at the aerodrome.

Active Experiences Around the Aerodrome

Devon & Somerset Flight Training offers flying lessons at Dunkeswell’s general aviation aerodrome. Experience flights are also available, allowing visitors to take control themselves during a trial flight. The Aviator Cafe has a terrace from which you can watch operations at Dunkeswell Aerodrome. This allows you to experience a historic site from another perspective: not only as a monument, but also as an aerodrome that is still in use.

Skydiving usually takes place in Dunkeswell from Wednesday to Sunday inclusive, as well as on public holidays. Wingwalking in Devon starts at Dunkeswell Aerodrome. These activities appeal to different interests and make it worthwhile to consider before your trip whether you would prefer to focus on aviation history, watching flying operations or an active experience.

Routes and Trip Planning

The surrounding area can also be explored on horseback. The Dunkeswell and Sheldon route includes sections on bridleways and opportunities for cantering. When choosing your holiday apartment or holiday house, you can therefore first decide on your preferred focus: Would you like to include historic sites and museums in your days, watch flying operations or choose a route with bridleways?

For families with different interests, the variety of topics provides a simple basis for making decisions together: One part of the trip can focus on the abbey’s history and the medieval tiles, while another can be devoted to the aerodrome or an experience flight. Those who prefer to explore at a leisurely pace can consider the ruins visible from a public footpath and the terrace at the Aviator Cafe. The key factor is which of the documented places and activities suit your preferred travel rhythm.

Further Places for Your Trip Planning

If you are looking for further destinations for your research, you can also view Starcross, Tipton Saint John, North Tawton, Lifton, Shaugh Prior, Stoke Gabriel, Martinhoe and Staverton.

For the overarching travel overview: Devon.