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Eight ancient landmarks you should visit in Devon
Devon is steeped in history with its roots stretching back to the Ice Age. The county is home to a number of ancient landmarks, many of which are still standing today. These landmarks offer a glimpse into the past and provide a fascinating insight into the lives of people who lived in Devon centuries ago.
Here are 8 ancient sites you should visit in Devon:
Exeter Cathedral
Exeter Cathedral is one of the most impressive cathedrals in England. It was founded in the 11th century and has been rebuilt and extended several times over the centuries. The cathedral is home to a number of important historical artifacts, including the Exeter Book, a 10th-century illuminated manuscript.
Dartmoor National Park
Dartmoor National Park is a vast area of moorland and heathland in the heart of Devon. The park is home to a number of ancient monuments, including stone circles, standing stones, and burial mounds. These monuments date back to the Bronze Age and provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the people who lived in Dartmoor thousands of years ago.
Buckfast Abbey
Buckfast Abbey is a Benedictine monastery located in the town of Buckfastleigh. The abbey was founded in the 11th century and was dissolved in the 16th century during the reign of Henry VIII. The abbey was refounded in the 19th century and is now home to a thriving monastic community.
Hartland Abbey
Hartland Abbey is a 12th-century Cistercian abbey located in the village of Hartland. The abbey was founded by William de Tracy, a Norman knight who fought in the Battle of Hastings. The abbey was dissolved in the 16th century and is now a private residence.
Castle Drogo
Castle Drogo is a 20th-century castle which makes it the youngest of its kind in England. The castle was built for Julius Drewe, a wealthy businessman, and was completed in 1930. Castle Drogo is now a popular tourist attraction and is managed by the National Trust.
Tarr Steps
Tarr Steps is a great place to go when looking to explore Exmoor National Park. Tarr Steps is what is known as a ‘clapper bridge’. There is no clear date of origin, but many historians agree there has been a bridge in the area since 1000 BC. The current bridge is thought to date back to the Middle Ages.
Legend has it that the devil built the bridge out of the broad flat stones that we see today as a spot for him to sunbathe across the River Barle.
Drizzlecombe
Drizzlecombe is a prehistoric settlement located on the edge of Dartmoor National Park. The settlement dates back to the Bronze Age and consists of a number of stone circles, standing stones, and burial mounds.
Stannon Down
Stannon Down is a hillfort located in the village of Great Torrington. The hillfort dates back to the Iron Age and is one of the largest hillforts in Devon.
These are just a few of the many ancient landmarks that can be found in Devon. If you’re interested in history, then a visit to Devon is a must. You’ll be amazed by the number of ancient sites that are still standing today, and you’ll get a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Disclaimer: This article was crafted with the help of an AI engine, which speeds up DevonLive’s editorial research. A DevonLive editor reviewed this content before it was published. You can report any inaccuracies to [email protected].
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