Tavistock: Abbey, Mining History and Trails

Tavistock combines medieval history, mining culture and varied trails to create a destination with many different facets. The town is regarded as the eastern gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape and as a starting point for exploring the mining landscape of West Devon and Cornwall. Those looking for a holiday apartment or holiday cottage in Tavistock can therefore tailor their stay entirely to their own interests: with historical discoveries, walks, cycling tours, markets or local traditions.

Abbey and World Heritage in the Townscape

An important point of interest is the Tavistock Guildhall Heritage Centre. It is housed in a Grade II* listed building and forms the eastern gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape. For groups, Tavistock Guildhall offers guided visits to the Guildhall and walking tours of the town. Tavistock Museum complements this historical focus with surviving furnishings from the abbey, including a stone head and floor tiles, as well as exhibitions on the local mining history. Since 2006, it has also been an Area Centre of the World Heritage Site.

Tavistock Abbey comprises standing, ruined and buried remains in the centre of Tavistock, north of the River Tavy, on the south-western edge of Dartmoor. The abbey is registered as a Scheduled Monument (SAM 1020401). A path approximately 80 metres long leads eastwards from Still House to Abbey Bridge along the medieval southern boundary wall. The medieval parish church also forms part of the town’s historic setting. It contains a window designed by William Morris in the 19th century; Morris’s family had interests in the nearby Devon Great Consols copper mine.

Walks, Moorland and Cycling Tours

For a break between visits, The Meadows is an appealing option. The area is about a five-minute walk from the town centre, between the River Tavy and the canal. It offers attractive walking paths, a children’s playground and trim trails. This makes it possible to plan a varied stay in Tavistock even when not all travellers share the same focus on culture, activity or relaxation.

Cyclists can include the Drake’s Trail in their plans. It is part of National Cycle Network Route 27 and runs 21 miles southwards to Plymouth. Large sections use the former railway line between Tavistock and the city. The route passes through open moorland and steep wooded valleys. This combination of a former railway line and changing landscapes makes the trail an independent way to get to know the area around Tavistock. When choosing your accommodation, consider whether cultural attractions, walks or a longer cycle ride should be the focus of your stay.

Markets and Living Traditions

Tavistock Pannier Market received its royal charter in 1105 and has existed continuously for more than 900 years. Another date for those interested in art and crafts is the Tavistock Arts Market, held on the first Saturday of each month in the Butchers Hall. It offers works by local artists and craftspeople, as well as handmade art and handmade items.

The annual events also shape the character of the town. Tavistock Goose Fair takes place on the second Wednesday in October. Its history dates back to the 12th century; it was originally a Michaelmas livestock market. Cream Tea Week also takes place every year in June. According to tradition, the cream tea tradition began in Tavistock when monks provided food for workers who were rebuilding the abbey after a Viking attack. If you would like to experience such special events, your travel dates should coincide with the respective occasions.

The Right Base for Planning Your Trip

If you are looking for holiday accommodation in Tavistock, first check your preferred travel dates: for Tavistock Goose Fair, Tavistock Arts Market or Cream Tea Week, your plans should coincide with the relevant date.

Other destinations for your trip planning include Brixton, Totnes, Kingsbridge, Beer, Bishop's Tawton, Noss Mayo, Colyton and Clovelly.

For the overarching travel overview: Devon.