Why Visit Tiverton?

Guest Blog Post - Tiverton TIC

Tiverton is often seen as an ideal base for exploring the rest of the county. With easy access to the M5 and a central location between the two national parks, the north and south coasts and lots of lovely, welcoming accommodation on offer it really is perfectly situated for getting out and about to discover a whole host of great things to do across the whole of Devon… but don’t just drop your bags and head out, because there’s a lot more to the town than you might think!

The River Exe at Tiverton. Photo Credit: Carrie Thomas

Nestled in the picturesque Exe Valley there’s plenty to keep walkers and cyclists busy with the Exe Valley Way and National Cycle Route 3 winding their way right through Tiverton and the 11 3/4miles of the Grand Western Canal Country Park kicking off in the town as well as countless other footpaths and short walks. All offer great views, glimpses of wildlife and varied walking and cycling for all ages and abilities. Then see the canal from a different angle by taking to the water on a paddle board or kayak with Rob McPaddling or jump into a Canadian canoe or one of the country’s last Horse Drawn barges with the Tiverton Canal Company.

Canal activities near East Manley Bridge. Photo Credit: John Morton - Devon County Photography

If history is more your thing you won’t be disappointed. The town has a rich, varied and sometimes surprising history which can be explored in detail at Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon Life, an excellent social commentary on the whole of the Mid Devon area. With a wealth of artefacts on display from Iron Age discoveries and Roman settlers to wool merchants and our more recent past, you might even be surprised to recognise one or two things from your own childhood! Don’t miss the chance to stand on the footplate and pull the whistle of the Tivvy Bumper, a full size steam engine that used to serve the local branch line running along the Exe Valley.
After soaking up this detailed overview at the museum why not widen your knowledge with a visit to Tiverton Castle to try on some armour or Knightshayes Court, a stunning gothic National Trust property on the outskirts of the town with strong links to Tiverton and its industrial heritage. Then head back to the town to complete a town trail to see some of the buildings you’ve just learnt about, including the impressive St Peter’s Church.

Looking across the grounds at Knighthayes. Photo Credit: Carrie Thomas

Shopping in Tiverton has had a revival in recent years with our own Gold Street being named the trendiest street in Devon! With a historic Pannier Market hosting a variety of stalls including books, crafts and clothes and plenty of independent shops and eating places throughout the town there’s no need to rush off to the big cities! In the evening check out what’s on at the Tivoli Cinema, watch a gig or catch a big name comedian at Tiverton Community Arts Theatre or, if you’re here on the first Saturday of the month, pop up to Tiverton Market for their monthly Electric Nights Streetfood Market to sample the local produce and soak up the entertainment.

And before you rush off to explore the rugged beauty of the moors or take in the sea air on the coast why not wend your way through the rest of Mid Devon exploring the beautiful churches, cosy country pubs and many attractions in the towns and villages around Tiverton. A handful of highlights include Coldharbour Mill in Uffculme, Bampton Heritage and Visitor Centre, Fursdon House near Crediton, entertaining the little ones at The Bear Trail, Diggerland or the Devon Railway Centre and watching the light change on the banks of the River Exe enjoying a local brew at the Fisherman’s Cot in Bickleigh. Pop in to the Tourist Information Service based at Tiverton Museum for more inspiration.

For further information about Tiverton, please click here.