Tiverton
Tiverton is a busy market town in the middle of Devon, convenient for both coasts, the Exmoor and Dartmoor National Parks and the cities of Exeter and Plymouth. Originally named Twyfyrde, meaning town of two fords, Tiverton stands on two rivers - the Lowman and the Exe. The town has a small, busy, shopping centre and a local cinema. There are still many fine old merchant’s buildings in the town. Buildings of note include the Old Police Station which has been restored and converted into private dwellings, and the Council Offices.
Tiverton once used the rivers as a source of power for its woollen industry. Much of Tiverton now centres on the Heathcoat lace factory, which has been in operation since 1816.
Tiverton Castle was originally built in the early 12th century and was the seat of the Earls of Devon for several centuries. It was rebuilt and enlarged in 1293 and now houses an interesting collection of Civil War arms and armour. The castle is a favourite venue for weddings. The Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon Life contains the largest social history collection in the South-West of England, in addition to displays on agriculture, industry and transport. The Tiverton Craft Centre is a Victorian shop with showrooms exhibiting many examples of local craft work including pottery, basketwork, painting and slate work.
The Great Western Canal is a pleasant venue for boat trips and trips on one of the last horse drawn barges in the country. Cycle along the towpath which runs for 16 miles between Tiverton and the Somerset boundary.
There are many interesting places to visit around Tiverton. One of these is the National Trust property, Knightshayes Court, known principally for its beautiful gardens but the Gothic, Victorian house is facinating in its own right. Knightshayes Court has one of the finest gardens in Devon. The gardens have something of interest each season and consist mainly of woodland and shrubs. There is a wonderful display of spring bulbs, summer flowering shrubs, delightful animal topiary and a pool garden.
Olde Forde House Cottages are two self catering cottages at Pennymoor, near Tiverton that can sleep four and six people.
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