Great Torrington

Known as the Cavalier Town, (in recognition of the town’s brave attempt to support the King in the Battle of Torrington in 1646 during the English Civil War), Great Torrington has become well established as an important heritage centre for the history of the 17th century. In this vibrant community, people in the town are proud of their heritage and can often be seen dressed in 17th century costume for re-enactments, festivals and celebrations or as volunteers at the popular Torrington 1646 visitor attraction. Conveniently in the town centre, this experience allows visitors to step into a recreation of the 17th century town. There are costumed characters, living history displays, and hands on games and activities that bring history to life.

• The Black Horse of Great Torrington.

World famous Dartington Crystal has its factory in Great Torrington, producing beautiful, hand-blown crystal. Guided tours of the factory enable visitors to watch the highly skilled craftsmen blowing and shaping the crystal; you can also discover the story of glass in the Visitor Centre or have fun in the glass activity area but don’t forget to leave time to browse the biggest glass shop in the country.

A few miles away, the village of Merton is home to a unique and fascinating attraction for fair or stormy weather. Barometer World boasts the biggest collection of barometers in the world, for sale and on display in the museum.

RHS garden, Rosemoor, is 40 stunning acres on the edge of the town and you do not need to be a keen gardener to appreciate its beauty and diversity. Woodland walks; herbaceous borders; a winter garden and three other model gardens; an arboretum; a bog garden; a cottage garden; fruit and vegetable garden and much more provide inspiration whatever the season. Most spectacular however, are the 2,000 roses, where 200 varieties create a magnificent display throughout the summer.

At the very heart of Tarka Country, Great Torrington is sited on a steep ridge with spectacular views over the Torridge river valley and encircled on three sides by common land given to the town in the 12th century. This tranquil landscape has remained practically unchanged since Henry Williamson found inspiration to write his classic novel in the 1920s. Locals and visitors alike still enjoy the deep wooded valleys, riverside tracks and heathland paths on foot and by bicycle, playing golf or fishing.

This traditional market town has many award-winning shops, master butchers and bakers, offering quality local produce. The town centre also boasts cafes, traditional pubs, banks and other facilities all within two minutes’ walk from the main car park! The refurbished Victorian Pannier Market houses a variety of shops and craft workshops too, selling local produce, gifts and collectables at sensible prices and the traditional pottery at Monkleigh is only a few minutes away. The Town Hall, rebuilt in 1860, still has the original yard known as the Shambles, once the meat market and town lock-up. An exciting new initiative is under way to decorate the yard with scenes from the original market of 1842. The Town Hall houses the free museum, run by local volunteers. Here visitors can learn about some of the famous residents, such as Keble Martin and Thomas Fowler and have an insight into history.

The Plough Arts Centre boasts a 140-seat auditorium, gallery, dance studio, café and bar. Its friendly, welcoming atmosphere, thriving community spirit and a full and varied programme, produces unique and memorable entertainment for all ages. This, combined with the many festival and community events throughout the year, ensures there is always something special to look out for in Great Torrington.