Brambles Bed and Breakfast
Whitnage Cottage | Whitnage | Uplowman | Tiverton | Devon | EX16 7DS
01884 829211 | Email
Bampton B&B Accommodation
Hotel | Bed and Breakfast | Accommodation | Bampton, Tiverton | Devon
Brambles Bed and Breakfast is 24 minutes (9.2 miles) via B3227 from Bampton, Tiverton in Devon.
About Bampton:
Bampton is a historic, picturesque market town in Mid Devon, nestled on the edge of Exmoor National Park, known for its charming stone buildings, independent shops, award-winning pubs, and rich history, including a Norman castle motte and a significant Civil War past. A popular spot for walkers and cyclists, Bampton boasts a strong sense of community, beautiful floral displays (often winning Britain in Bloom awards), and serves as a gateway to the Exmoor countryside, offering a blend of traditional English charm and outdoor adventure. Key Highlights: History: Roman and Saxon roots, a well-preserved Norman motte-and-bailey castle, a 12th-century church, and a wool trade history that shaped its Georgian architecture. Atmosphere: A conservation area with a "picture postcard" feel, featuring traditional butchers, greengrocers, and a bustling town centre. Location: On the River Batherm, near the Somerset border, providing easy access to Exmoor National Park. Activities: Walking (Exe Valley Way, local trails), cycling, exploring independent shops, and visiting the Heritage Centre. Events: Famous for its ancient Charter Fair and the "After the Fair" folk festival. What to See & Do: Bampton Castle Motte: Climb for views over the town and surrounding area. St. Michael & All Angels Church: A Grade I listed building with a striking tower. Bampton Heritage & Visitor Centre: Learn about the town's past and get walking route information. Shops & Pubs: Enjoy local produce and traditional fare at places like The Swan Inn and The White Horse.
History of Bampton:
Bampton, Devon, boasts a rich history, evolving from Roman and Saxon settlements (with hints of a fort and Saxon field patterns) into a prosperous wool town during the 17th-18th centuries, evident in its Georgian architecture, before declining, only to be revitalized by its renowned Pony Fair (est. 1258) and quarries, with significant developments in the 19th century, including a railway and later, infrastructure like mains water and electricity, shaping its distinctive character. Early Origins & Medieval Period Roman & Saxon Roots: The town's history likely began with a Roman fort, with Saxon influence seen in field systems and the circular churchyard. Norman Motte: A motte (earthwork castle mound) from 1067 dominates the town, marking its Norman beginnings. Charter Fair: An ancient charter fair, established in 1258, became a key part of Bampton's identity, with pony sales gaining prominence in the Victorian era. The Wool & Quarrying Boom (17th-19th Century) Economic Peak: The wool trade brought great wealth, leading to the construction of many Georgian merchant houses, notes this YouTube video. Leatherworking: A smaller, but significant, leather trade also operated alongside wool, notes Bampton in Devon. Quarrying: After the wool trade faded, quarries became a major employer, supplying stone for roads, railways, and more, says Bampton in Devon. Victorian & Modern Era Developments Infrastructure: The 19th century saw the arrival of the railway (1884-1963), telegraphs, and later, mains water (1871) and electricity (1927). Civil War: Oliver Cromwell's forces fought Royalists in a 1645 battle, with Cromwell reportedly staying at Cromwell House. Decline & Renewal: The wool industry's collapse left the town struggling until quarrying and the famous Pony Fair provided new life, notes this YouTube video. Key Features Today Historic Character: Bampton remains a conservation area, retaining its historic buildings, including 17th-century structures, says Spelt Bampton.
Brambles Bed and Breakfast
Whitnage Cottage | Whitnage | Uplowman | Tiverton | Devon | EX16 7DS
01884 829211 | Email