Wiveliscombe B&B Accommodation

Hotel | Bed and Breakfast | Accommodation | Wiveliscombe, Taunton | Somerset

Brambles Bed and Breakfast is 30 minutes (12.3 miles) via B3227 from Wiveliscombe, Taunton in Devon.

About Wiveliscombe:

Wiveliscombe (or 'Wivey') is a historic market town in West Somerset, known as the gateway to Exmoor, nestled at the foot of the Brendon Hills, offering a blend of charming Victorian architecture, independent shops, local breweries, and a strong community spirit, highlighted by the annual 10 Parishes Festival. It's a base for exploring Exmoor's natural beauty, with a rich history in woollen cloth making and a unique connection to the London Blitz. Key Features & Attractions: Gateway to Exmoor: Its location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Exmoor National Park. Historic Centre: Features Victorian buildings, traditional pubs, and independent shops with unique frontages. Local Culture: Hosts the "10 Parishes Festival," a vibrant celebration of arts and crafts from the surrounding villages. Brewery Town: Home to two local breweries, with ales often featured in its pubs. History: A former market and woollen town with ancient origins, including nearby Iron Age hill forts. Unique Tartan: The town even has its own unique tartan. Things to Do: Explore the Town: Follow the Historic Town Trail to learn about its past. Shop & Dine: Discover independent shops, galleries, and sample local brews. Visit St. Andrew's Church: A landmark built from red sandstone. Enjoy the Outdoors: Access walking routes along the River Tone and into Exmoor. Community Life: A lively, thriving community with a farmers' market and sports clubs (rugby, cricket). A focus on creativity, with many local artists and potters.

History of Wiveliscombe:

Wiveliscombe's history stretches from Iron Age forts on Castle Hill, through Roman occupation, to a significant Saxon estate granted to the Bishops of Bath & Wells by Edward the Confessor, becoming a medieval episcopal manor with a palace. It grew as a market town, gaining prominence with the wool trade and later a major brewery, retaining its character with historic buildings like St. Andrew's Church and a well-preserved market square. Early Beginnings: Prehistoric & Roman: The area shows signs of Neolithic activity, with Castle Hill featuring an Iron Age fort later occupied by Romans, evidenced by coin discoveries. Saxon Era: It was a royal estate (Wyfelescumbe) with farmsteads, eventually given to the Bishop of Bath & Wells by Edward the Confessor, becoming a significant holding. Medieval & Early Modern Growth: Episcopal Power: The Bishops of Wells maintained a manor and residence (Bishop's Palace) here, influencing its development. Market Town: A market was established, and the town developed around its crossroads, with a market hall built in 1559. Wool Trade: The cloth industry brought prosperity, funding wealthy families and employing many. Victorian Era & Beyond: Industry & Transport: The 19th century saw a large brewery (Hancock's) and slate quarries, while the railway brought more connections. Architecture: The iconic St. Andrew's Church, rebuilt in 1829, dominates the town, alongside Victorian buildings. Modern Identity: Wiveliscombe remains a vibrant community, known for its local breweries and strong community spirit, continuing traditions while embracing new initiatives.

Towns and Villages A to Z

Accommodation and Places to Stay in or near Crediton, Cullompton, Exeter, Honiton, Okehampton, Tiverton, and Willand in Devon, and in or near Bridgwater, Taunton and Wellington in Somerset, include Airbnb, B and B, Bed and Breakfast, Best Western, Farmhouse B&B, Guest House, Hotel, Premier Inn and Travelodge.