Brambles Bed and Breakfast
Whitnage Cottage | Whitnage | Uplowman | Tiverton | Devon | EX16 7DS
01884 829211 | Email
Great Torrington B&B Accommodation
Hotel | Bed and Breakfast | Accommodation | Great Torrington | Devon
Brambles Bed and Breakfast is 59 minutes (39.3 miles) via A361 and B3227 from Great Torrington in Devon.
About Great Torrington:
Great Torrington is a historic, picturesque market town in North Devon, perched on a hilltop overlooking the River Torridge, known for its ancient commons, vibrant independent shops, strong community, and rich Civil War history (including the 1646 Battle of Torrington). It's a gateway to the Tarka Trail for walking/cycling, boasts attractions like RHS Rosemoor and Dartington Crystal nearby, and features historical sites like Castle Hill and the Plough Arts Centre, offering spectacular views and a welcoming atmosphere. Key Features Location: Built on a steep cliff above the River Torridge, offering stunning views. Commons: Surrounded by 365 acres of common land with 20 miles of footpaths, accessible to all. Market Town: Features the Victorian Pannier Market, independent shops, butchers, bakers, cafes, and pubs. History: Site of a 12th-century castle, a major English Civil War battle (1646), and a famous Waterloo Monument. Culture: Home to the Plough Arts Centre (film, theatre, gallery) and celebrates with events like the May Fair. Literary Connection: The setting for Henry Williamson's "Tarka the Otter". Things to Do & See Explore the Commons: Walk the trails, enjoy the golf course, woods, and river. Visit RHS Garden Rosemoor: Beautiful gardens just outside the town. Dartington Crystal: Factory tours to see glass-making. Torrington 1646: A living history attraction about the Civil War. Heritage Museum: Learn more about the town's past. Getting There & Around Nearest Train Station: Umberleigh (on the Tarka Line). Bus: Connections to Barnstaple. Driving: Accessible via the A361.
History of Great Torrington:
Great Torrington (or "Cheping Torrington" in medieval times) has a rich history as a strategically important market and industrial town, most famously as the site of a decisive battle in the English Civil War. Key Historical Periods and Events Early Settlement & Medieval Period: The town's name derives from the River Torridge plus the Old English "tūn" meaning settlement. Iron Age and medieval forts were located on Castle Hill, where a castle was first built in the 12th century. In 1194, the feudal baron donated a large area of common land, known as Torrington Common, to the town, which still surrounds it on three sides. English Civil War: Great Torrington was of strategic importance in the 17th century. The Battle of Torrington on February 16, 1646, saw the Parliamentarian forces under Sir Thomas Fairfax defeat the Royalist army led by Lord Hopton. This battle marked the end of Royalist resistance in the West Country. During the conflict, the parish church, where over 200 Royalist prisoners were held captive, was accidentally blown up by gunpowder kegs, killing all inside and many of their captors. Industrial Era: The town grew steadily from its agricultural roots. The wool industry thrived in the Middle Ages but was eventually overtaken by glove-making as the main employment in the 18th century, a factory for which later employed 1,000 people, mostly working from home. A canal (the Rolle Canal) was built in 1823 to transport goods, followed by a railway line in 1872. In the 20th century, a large milk and butter processing plant and the Dartington Crystal glassworks were established. Modern Day: The town experienced an economic downturn with the closure of major factories in the late 20th century. However, it has seen regeneration efforts, a growth in independent shops, and is known for its active volunteering community and historical reenactments. Today, Dartington Crystal is the largest employer. Notable Features and Heritage Torrington Common: 365 acres of common land with over 20 miles of footpaths, managed by a Committee of Conservators since 1889. Victorian Pannier Market: A restored Victorian market hall with a glass roof, still in use today. RHS Rosemoor Garden: A major collection of gardens, woodlands, and parkland located nearby. Great Torrington Heritage Museum: Offers extensive information on the area's history, including self-guided Civil War Trails. The Tarka Trail: A 32-mile traffic-free foot and cycle path that follows the route of the fictional character in Henry Williamson's famous novel Tarka the Otter, passing the town along the route of the former railway line. Famous Residents: The town has been home to notable figures such as Lady Margaret Beaufort (grandmother of Henry VIII), and William Keble Martin (botanist and illustrator). To explore the history further, visit the Great Torrington Heritage Museum or follow one of the self-guided history and Civil War trails.
Brambles Bed and Breakfast
Whitnage Cottage | Whitnage | Uplowman | Tiverton | Devon | EX16 7DS
01884 829211 | Email