tel 01837 810850 email info@raymonthouse.co.uk
explore
These pages summarise the highlights of this unique area and are designed to enable you to get the very best out of your stay with us. We provide maps and more detailed information when you visit.
We've organised the pages into areas:
- explore hatherleigh and around
- explore north
- explore east
- explore south
- explore west
- explore further afield
Our favourite places are marked with an asterisk * .You can plan your days by picking the things that interest you most.
Explore Hatherleigh and Around
1. A STROLL AROUND HATHERLEIGH
Hatherleigh is a small but vibrant town, largely untouched by modern developments, and still with a thriving community spirit. It is well worth getting to know its hidden corners.
From Raymont House, walk down Market Street. Browse around the bric-a-brac shop on the right. Further down on the left is Hatherleigh Pottery with a display of pots by the resident potter and by other local potters. On the right is Angels and Petals, a craft and gift shop.
The Tally Ho! is a thriving traditional local pub with good food and beer. Watch out for live music events. Through the coach entrance you can see the former local brewery, unfortunately no longer in operation.
Follow the road round to the left, pausing to look round another bric-a-brac shop, and then turn left up High Street. After about 50 metres, notice the gushing tap in the wall on the left. This is the "Buddle" and has been a direct source of water from Hatherleigh Moor for centuries. Reportedly, it has never dried up. Notice the unspoilt and tightly-packed cob houses along these narrow streets. At the crossroads, turn right down South Street.
When you reach Bridge Street, take a short diversion to the left to visit the Bridge Inn, another traditional local pub, and the Auction Rooms, which is worth exploring when it is open. Then return up Bridge Street and turn left by the Co-op.
Notice the Farmers and Sheep statue, a fitting tribute to the farming traditions of this area of Devon. Not everyone notices the dog!
If it's a Tuesday morning, then continue ahead and spend time wandering round the Market. In one of the buildings is a general auction, fascinating for people-watching. Absolutely not to be missed is the *Poultry Auction.
Return to Bridge Street and turn left. Well worth a visit is Salar Gallery with its wide range of art by regional artists, and gifts.
The George Hotel is on the left, and being the social hub of the town, is an essential stopping point for all visitors to the town. The original 15th century coaching inn was burned to the ground in 2008, and the replacement which opened in 2010 looks strikingly like it. The new interior has replicated most of its original period charm, but with a more modern arrangement. Inside you can see pictures of the original and the fire. The hotel offers a wide range of food so we like to go there for a snack or for a full celebratory meal.
Cross the Market Square, noticing the statue heads of a ram and a cow, and enter the churchyard. If it's a clear day, go to the left of the church and sit on the bench. From here there is a great view of the surrounding countryside and Dartmoor beyond. Visit the parish church of St. John the Baptist. The building dates principally from the 15th century. A few of the carved benches are 16th century. The spire of the church was blown down into the nave in 1991, and there are photos of this and the rebuilding inside the church.
Coming out of the church, follow the pathway up to the top of the churchyard and go through the gate onto Church Lane. This comes out on Oakfield Road, where you turn right and back to Raymont House.
2. COUNTRY WALKS FROM RAYMONT HOUSE
Here are three cross-country walks offering slightly different views of the surrounding countryside. We will provide a map and directions. Walking boots are recommended at all times of the year.
Hatherleigh Moor (3.5 miles)
The open spaces of the local moor provide an excellent place for exercise and fresh air. The views across to Dartmoor can be breathtaking on a clear day.
River Lew/Runnan Moor (4 miles)
A varied walk along a river bank, then along a country lane, and returning across undulating farmland.
Tarka Trail to Iddesleigh (8 miles)
A long walk across farmland, but with a break at the Duke of York at Iddesleigh it is seems like two shorter walks! There is also the parish church of St. James to explore.
3. AROUND HATHERLEIGH (WITHIN 8 MILES' DRIVE)
Eastcott Vineyard
Go for a tour of the estate and some wine tasting. Phone ahead to check opening hours and tour times 01837 811012. SatNav - EX20 3PT.
Sampford Courtenay
A picturesque village of thatched properties, with the outstanding parish church of St. Andrew. It is the place where the Prayerbook Rebellion started in 1549. SatNav - EX20 2TG.
*Honeychurch church of St. Mary
Near Sampford Courtenay, this is a charming, tiny church which escaped the ravages of the Victorians or indeed any other age. The 12th century building is almost unchanged, with a few additions. The interior is simple with medieval woodwork and wall painting. The font is Norman with a Jacobean wooden cover. SatNav - EX20 2AG.
* Halsdon Nature Reserve
142 acres of woodland along the side of the river Torridge. We go here for peace and quiet at all times of the year, and the birdsong in spring. Most days you have the whole wood to yourself. If you are very lucky you can see otters and kingfishers from the hide by the river. It is managed by the Devon Wildlife Trust, and has an excellent circular track for a relaxing walk. Car parks at grid references SS 560 117 and SS 557 132.
Winsford Walled Garden
A beautiful summer garden with a fine collection of Victorian greenhouses, restored from dereliction since 1999. Watch the video on their web site front page for a flavour. Email admin@winsfordwalledgarden.com. SatNav EX21 5XT.
The Duke of York
This is one of our favourite pubs, and at 10 minutes in the car, is easily accessible. We love sitting on the benches at the front of the pub, or in the unspoilt bar. The food is good and real ale from barrels behind the bar is an extra bonus! See here for other people's comments. Phone 01837 810253. SatNav EX19 8BG.