Brambles Bed and Breakfast
Whitnage Cottage | Whitnage | Uplowman | Tiverton | Devon | EX16 7DS
01884 829211 | Email
Clayhanger B&B Accommodation
Hotel | Bed and Breakfast | Accommodation | Clayhanger, Tiverton | Devon
Brambles Bed and Breakfast is 18 minutes (6.7 miles) via Dark Ln from Clayhanger, Tiverton in Devon.
About Clayhanger:
Clayhanger is a small, historic agricultural parish in Mid Devon, near Tiverton and Bampton, known for its undulating countryside, strong farming heritage, and quiet rural charm, featuring ancient features like a Knights' Templar preceptory and a Roman fort site, making it a peaceful spot for walkers away from major traffic. Key Aspects of Clayhanger: Location: Set in rolling hills, bordering Somerset, about 9 miles from Tiverton and 4.75 miles east of Bampton. History: A historically agricultural parish, it was once home to a preceptory of the Knights Templar and has evidence of a significant Roman fort nearby. Landscape: Characterized by fields, hedges, and quiet lanes, offering idyllic countryside walks. Village Life: A small, scattered village centered around its ancient church, with a history of small cottages and a hard, self-sufficient rural life. Modern Context: Now part of the Mid Devon District, it retains its rural character despite losing its former inn. Nearby & Historical Points: Roman Fort: A well-preserved rectangular fort site at Cudmore Farm is a scheduled monument, showcasing Roman presence. Church: An old church with a large western tower, carved oak seats, and screens, as noted in historical directories. In essence, Clayhanger offers a glimpse into traditional rural Devon, offering tranquility and a rich past within the broader Tiverton area.
History of Clayhanger:
Clayhanger, Devon, is a historic rural parish near the Somerset border, known for its ancient St. Peter's Church, rich clay soil (giving it its name: "clay-wooded slope"), early Saxon land grants to Sherborne Abbey, proximity to a Roman fort, and its past as a small, pastoral farming community, evolving from Domesday records to its current small village status. Early History & Origins Saxon Roots: Land in Clayhanger was granted by King Ethelred (866-871) and confirmed by Alfred the Great (871-899) to Sherborne Abbey, showing its early value. Roman Fort: A well-preserved Roman fort, a significant scheduled monument, exists nearby at Cudmore Farm, indicating earlier settlement. Name Meaning: The name itself comes from Old English, meaning a "clayey wooded slope," reflecting the local geography. Medieval & Later History Knights Templar: A preceptory (a local house) of the Knights Templar was once located in Clayhanger. St. Peter's Church: The beautiful 14th-century church tower dominates the village, featuring ancient carved oak seats and memorials to families like the Nutcombes, former lords of the manor. Manorial History: The Manor House was held by the Nutcombe family, prominent in Devon, with Richard Nutcombe serving as Sheriff of Devon. Village Life & Economy Farming: Traditionally a pastoral area, Clayhanger was known for farming and cattle, with its rich clay soil supporting agriculture. Community: It's a small, dispersed village, historically part of the Tiverton district, with a population that has gradually decreased from its historical numbers. Local Records: Parish registers and directories from the 1800s and early 1900s detail local families, rectory information, and the impact of events like World War I, with memorials listing fallen soldiers from the area. In Summary Clayhanger's history is deeply rooted in the land, with evidence of Roman occupation, significant Saxon donations, medieval religious orders, and a strong agricultural past, all centered around its iconic church and distinctive landscape.
Brambles Bed and Breakfast
Whitnage Cottage | Whitnage | Uplowman | Tiverton | Devon | EX16 7DS
01884 829211 | Email



