North Tawton City Guide

About North Tawton – History and Culture

North Tawton, a picturesque market town nestled in the heart of Devon, boasts a rich history that dates back to the Domesday Book of 1086. Originally a Saxon settlement, it grew into a thriving medieval centre for the wool trade, with its prosperity reflected in the grandeur of St Peter's Church and the ancient market square. The town's name, derived from the River Taw and 'tun' meaning farmstead, encapsulates its agricultural roots.

Throughout the centuries, North Tawton evolved as a local hub for farming and commerce. The wool trade brought wealth, leading to the construction of fine buildings such as the Town Hall and several merchant houses. The Industrial Revolution bypassed the town, preserving its historic character. Today, North Tawton is a peaceful community that cherishes its heritage while embracing modern rural life.

Culturally, North Tawton embodies the quintessential Devon market town: friendly, traditional, and deeply connected to the land. Local festivals, a strong community spirit, and a love for the surrounding countryside define its identity. The town's culture is also shaped by its proximity to Dartmoor, with hikers, cyclists, and artists drawn to the area's beauty.

• St Peter's Church – 15th-century with carved rood screen
• Market Square – medieval cross and cobbled area
• North Tawton Heritage Centre – local history exhibits
• The Town Hall – Victorian architecture
• Old Commercial Inn – historic 17th-century pub
• River Taw – scenic walking routes
• Hembury Hill Fort – Iron Age remains nearby
• Taw Valley – fishing and wildlife

Did You Know? – Facts about North Tawton

North Tawton may be small, but it packs a surprising number of interesting features. As a gateway to Dartmoor, it offers easy access to some of England's most dramatic landscapes. The town's layout, with its narrow streets and historic buildings, invites exploration.

The local community is active, with many events celebrating its heritage. For a town of its size, North Tawton has a rich literary connection: the poet William Barnes was a regular visitor. Also, the Taw Valley is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its rare habitats.

• North Tawton's church spire is visible from miles around.
• The town had a weekly market since at least 1253.
• North Tawton once had a workhouse, now converted to housing.
• The 'Taw' is one of the few rivers in Devon to have red-winged blackbirds.
• The town's football club, North Tawton FC, was founded in 1908.
• Nearby is the 'Tarka Trail', a long-distance path named after Tarka the Otter.
• North Tawton has no traffic lights – just one main junction.
• The town appears in the 'A-Z of Devon' walking guides.
• Local legend says a ghostly coachman haunts the Exeter Road.
• The North Tawton Mill was a working corn mill until the 1950s.
• Famous resident: George Ley, a 19th-century cricketer from North Tawton.
• Annual apple pressing event in October.
• The River Taw is popular for canoeing.
• The town's war memorial lists 17 fallen from WWI.
• North Tawton has a community orchard planted in 2012.

Geography and Climate of North Tawton

North Tawton lies in the county of Devon, South West England, approximately 20 miles northwest of Exeter. It sits in the Taw Valley, a broad green valley that cuts through the Devonian sandstone landscape. The town is situated on the western edge of Dartmoor National Park, with the moor rising to the south and east.

Geographically, North Tawton is a linear settlement mostly along the A3124, with the River Taw flowing parallel. The surrounding countryside is a patchwork of farmland, woodland, and moorland. The climate is temperate maritime, influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, with mild winters and cool summers.

• River Taw runs through the town – major watercourse.
• Dartmoor granite visible in local buildings.
• Average annual rainfall: 1,200 mm.
• Summer temperatures: 15-20°C rarely above 25°C.
• Winter temperatures: 2-8°C, occasional snow on Dartmoor.
• Soil types: loam over clay, good for pasture.
• Nearest hills: Sourton Tors, Great Links Tor.
• Woodland: Bowden Wood, a local nature reserve.

Things to Do in North Tawton

Despite its small size, North Tawton offers a variety of activities for visitors and residents alike. From historic sites to outdoor adventures, there's something for everyone. The town's location makes it an ideal base for exploring Dartmoor and the wider Devon region.

Food & Dining

North Tawton's dining scene is centred on traditional pub food and local produce. The Bell Inn serves classic roasts and ales, while the Old Commercial Inn offers a cosy bar with homemade grub. For a more refined meal, the nearby 'George Inn' in Hatherleigh is a short drive. The town also has a fish and chip shop, a Chinese takeaway, and a community café.

Local specialties include Devon cream teas, fresh fish from the coast, and lamb from Dartmoor. The annual food festival in nearby Okehampton celebrates regional produce. Many locals also rely on farm shops and the weekly farmers' market in the town square.

• The Bell Inn - hearty pub meals
• Old Commercial Inn - traditional ales and pies
• Taw Valley Tearooms - cakes and scones
• North Tawton Fish Bar - classic fish & chips
• Golden Dragon Chinese takeaway
• Community Café - light lunches
• Farmers' market (first Saturday of month)
• Dartmoor lamb and beef
• Devon cheeses: cheddar, brie
• Scrumpy cider from local orchards
• Nearby Hatherleigh Market (Tuesdays)
• Seasonal game: venison, pheasant
• Clovelly crab, fresh from coast

Festivals & Events

North Tawton's annual calendar is filled with community events. The May Fair, held on the first weekend of May, features a funfair, market stalls, and live music. In December, the Christmas Market lights up the town square with crafts and mulled wine. The town also celebrates the 'Taw Trot' – a 10K race through the valley each June.

Other events include the North Tawton Flower Show, harvest suppers, and a summer fête. The nearby town of Okehampton hosts a larger 'Dartmoor Festival' in July. For those who enjoy history, the heritage centre runs occasional guided walks and talks.

• North Tawton May Fair (early May)
• Christmas Market (first weekend December)
• Taw Trot 10K (June)
• Flower Show (August)
• Harvest Supper (September)
• Summer Fête (July)
• Dartmoor Festival (Okehampton)
• Heritage Open Days (September)
• Apple Day (October)
• Bonfire Night (November)
• Santa Dash (December)

Cultural Attractions

While North Tawton does not have large museums, it offers smaller cultural gems. The North Tawton Heritage Centre, located in the old library, displays artifacts from the town's past, including wool trade tools and agricultural implements. St Peter's Church is a masterpiece of medieval craftsmanship, with a stunning rood screen and fan vaulting.

The town also has a community art gallery in the Town Hall, showcasing local artists. Nearby is the 'Museum of Dartmoor Life' in Okehampton, a 15-minute drive, which provides deeper insight into the region's history. For film lovers, the 'Okehampton Cinema' offers recent releases.

• North Tawton Heritage Centre
• St Peter's Church
• Town Hall art exhibitions
• Museum of Dartmoor Life (Okehampton)
• Hembury Fort (Iron Age hillfort)
• Castle Drogo (National Trust, 20 min)
• Lydford Gorge (waterfall, 25 min)
• Dartmoor National Park Visitor Centre
• Finch Foundry (water-powered forge)

Outdoor Activities

Outdoor enthusiasts will find North Tawton an ideal base. The River Taw offers fishing for salmon and trout (with permits). Walking paths crisscross the valley, including the Tarka Trail long-distance route. The moorland of Dartmoor is minutes away, with granite tors, ancient forests, and wild ponies.

Cycling is popular, with both road and mountain bike routes. The 'Granite Way' cycle path runs from Okehampton to Lydford. For pony-trekking, several stables in the area offer guided rides. Golfers can visit the Okehampton Golf Club. Canoeing on the Taw is also possible, with kayak hire available.

• Tarka Trail – walking and cycling
• Granite Way – 11-mile cycle path
• Fishing on River Taw (permit required)
• Dartmoor hiking – numerous footpaths
• Hembury Hill Fort walk
• Bowden Wood nature trail
• Okehampton Golf Club
• Pony trekking at Dartmoor Riding Centre
• Canoeing / kayaking on Taw
• Wild swimming in Taw pools
• Birdwatching at Taw Valley
• Rock climbing at Sourton Tors
• Horse riding along bridlepaths
• Off-road mountain biking at Haldon Forest

Economy and Key Industries

The economy of North Tawton is rooted in agriculture, tourism, and small-scale service industries. Dairy farming and sheep rearing dominate the surrounding countryside, with many local farmers supplying produce to Devon's creameries. The town also serves as a residential base for commuters working in Exeter and Okehampton.

Tourism is increasingly important, with visitors drawn to Dartmoor National Park. The town has a handful of B&Bs, self-catering cottages, and two pubs that cater to tourists. The heritage centre and local events also contribute. Additionally, North Tawton has a few small businesses: a garage, a post office, a grocery store, and building trades.

Unemployment is low, though job opportunities are limited within the town itself. Many residents work in healthcare, education, or retail in nearby towns. The average local income is slightly below the national average, but the cost of living is also lower. Future economic development may focus on sustainable tourism and digital connectivity.

• Agriculture – dairy, cattle, sheep
• Tourism – Dartmoor visitor industry
• Local retail – village shop, post office
• Construction and building trades
• Professional services – accountancy, property
• Healthcare – community hospital in Okehampton
• Education – North Tawton Primary School
• Public sector – local council jobs
• Self-employment – many small businesses
• Agri-tech research nearby (Bicton College)
• Renewable energy – small wind farms in the valley

Where to Live in North Tawton

Residential options in North Tawton range from historic cottages in the town centre to modern houses on the outskirts. The town is compact, so most amenities are within walking distance. Property prices are generally lower than in the South East, making it attractive for first-time buyers and retirees.

The town centre features terraced houses alongside the main roads, while the newer estates (e.g., Mill Meadow) offer family homes. The rural hamlets around North Tawton, such as Bondleigh and Exbourne, provide a more secluded lifestyle. Many houses have gardens and are characterized by stone walls and slate roofs.

Living here offers a strong sense of community, but amenities are limited. For shopping, banks, and secondary schools, Okehampton (12 minutes drive) is the nearest centre. The lack of railway station is a drawback, but bus services connect to Exeter. Overall, it's a peaceful place perfect for those seeking a rural Devonshire life.

• Mill Meadow – modern estate of 3-4 bed houses
• Church Street – period cottages near St Peter's
• Fore Street – mix of shops and flats above
• Exbourne Road – larger detached homes
• Bondleigh hamlet – converted farmhouses
• Rental properties – limited, mostly private
• Buying a house: average £250,000-350,000
• Retirement bungalows on Exeter Road
• New build developments – occasional planning approvals

Formalities and Visas in North Tawton

As North Tawton is part of the United Kingdom, the same visa and immigration rules apply. Non-UK nationals need to check the UK government's official visa requirements. For tourism, short stays up to 6 months may not require a visa for many nationalities, but the EU Settlement Scheme applies for EU citizens post-Brexit.

For those moving to North Tawton from abroad, obtaining a visa is essential. Work visas (Skilled Worker, Global Talent) require a job offer from a UK employer. The town itself does not have a visa office, but applications are processed online and via the UKVI. Local residents can seek help from the Okehampton Citizens Advice Bureau.

Settling in the UK requires registering for a National Insurance number, opening a bank account, and accessing healthcare. The nearest Home Office reporting office is in Exeter. For study visas, the nearest universities are in Exeter and Plymouth. Always refer to official sources for the most current information.

• Standard Visitor visa – up to 6 months for tourism
• Skilled Worker visa – requires employer sponsorship
• Student visa – for courses at UK institutions
• Family visa – for joining relatives in UK
• EU Settlement Scheme – for EU/EEA nationals
• Ancestry visa – if you have a UK-born grandparent
• Youth Mobility Scheme – for certain countries
• Indefinite Leave to Remain – after 5 years residence
• Naturalisation as British citizen – after 5 years
• Biometric Residence Permit – needed for long stays
• Register with local GP upon arrival
• National Insurance number – apply online
• Driving licence exchange – for non-UK licences

Working in North Tawton

Employment opportunities within North Tawton itself are limited, primarily in retail, hospitality, and services. Many residents commute to larger towns. The local job market reflects the rural nature; agriculture and tourism offer seasonal work. Self-employment is common, particularly in trades and creative industries.

Okehampton and Exeter are the main employment centres for North Tawton residents. Okehampton has a mix of retail, healthcare (e.g., Okehampton Hospital), and light industry. Exeter offers a broader range: university, research, finance, and public sector jobs. The commute to Exeter takes about 30-40 minutes by car, bus, or train from Okehampton.

Professional culture in North Tawton is informal and community-oriented. Networking happens through local events and social groups. The town has a small business association. Remote working is growing, with improved broadband enabling some to work from home. The lack of a railway station remains a barrier, but plans for reopening have been discussed.

• Retail jobs: shops, post office, garage
• Hospitality: pubs, B&Bs, tearooms
• Agriculture: farm labour, tractor driving, shepherding
• Education: primary school teaching assistants, nursery staff
• Construction: general labour, electricians, plumbers
• Healthcare: care assistants, nurses at Okehampton
• Tourism: Dartmoor guides, outdoor activity leaders
• Commuting to Exeter: uni, admin, corporate
• Self-employment: IT consultation, crafts, coaching
• Remote white-collar jobs: software, design, writing
• Public sector: local council roles, police support
• Volunteering: community shop, heritage centre

Studying in North Tawton

North Tawton has one primary school: North Tawton Primary Academy, which teaches children aged 4-11. The school has a good Ofsted rating and strong community ties. For secondary education, students typically travel to Okehampton College (11-18) or St James School in Exeter. Further education is available at Exeter College or Petroc in Barnstaple.

Higher education requires commuting to Exeter (University of Exeter), Plymouth (University of Plymouth), or Torquay (South Devon College). These institutions offer a wide range of degrees. The University of Exeter is particularly notable for its humanities, sciences, and business programs. Distance learning and online degrees are also popular among local students.

Student life is not centred in North Tawton itself, but students living at home can easily access city amenities. The town provides a quiet study environment, close to nature. Scholarships and bursaries are available through universities. International students need a valid Tier 4 visa (now Student route) and must check English language requirements.

• North Tawton Primary Academy – ages 4-11
• Okehampton College – secondary and 6th form
• Exeter College – further education & apprenticeships
• University of Exeter – Russell Group university
• University of Plymouth – health & marine sciences
• Petroc (Barnstaple) – vocational courses
• South Devon College – adult learning
• Distance learning – Open University, various
• Adult education – Devon Adult & Community Learning
• Language courses – Exeter English language schools
• Student accommodation: mainly in Exeter/Plymouth
• School buses provided to Okehampton
• Local library in North Tawton (limited hours)

Finance and Banks in North Tawton

North Tawton does not have a bank branch; the nearest are in Okehampton (Lloyds, NatWest, Barclays) or in Exeter. However, the local post office offers basic banking services such as withdrawals, deposits, and bill payments. Most residents use online banking for daily transactions. Digital banks like Monzo and Revolut are popular for their convenience.

Opening a bank account in the UK requires proof of identity (passport) and proof of address (utility bill). For non-UK residents, a bank may require a visa or work permit. In North Tawton, many use the credit union service provided by 'Devon & Cornwall Credit Union' for savings and loans. Financial advisors are available in Okehampton and Exeter.

Taxes: Income tax and National Insurance are deducted automatically for employees. Self-employed individuals must file annual tax returns to HMRC. Council tax is collected by West Devon Borough Council. Property taxes (stamp duty) apply when buying a home. Money transfers can be done through banks, transfer services like Wise or PayPal.

• No high street bank in town – use Okehampton or online
• Post office offers cash withdrawal, bill payment, deposit
• Digital banking: Monzo, Starling, Revolut widely used
• Credit union: Devon & Cornwall Credit Union
• Currency: GBP (British Pound Sterling)
• ATMs: one outside post office (free use)
• Income tax: 20% basic rate on earnings over £12,570
• National Insurance: 12% for employees
• Council tax: bands B-C average for North Tawton
• Mortgages: available from national lenders
• Investment advice: independent advisors in Exeter
• Opening a bank account: need proof of address
• HSBC, Lloyds, NatWest – nearest branches in Okehampton

Health Care in North Tawton

Healthcare services in North Tawton are provided through the National Health Service (NHS) via the local GP surgery – the 'North Tawton Surgery' located on Exeter Street. It offers primary care appointments, vaccinations, and minor ailments. The practice is part of the Dartmoor Medical Group. For after-hours care, patients contact NHS 111.

For hospital services, the nearest is Okehampton Hospital which has a minor injuries unit and some inpatient beds. Major emergencies and specialist care are covered by the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (RD&E) in Exeter, about 30 minutes away. Ambulance services are provided by South Western Ambulance Service.

Dental care is available at Okehampton Dental Practice, but NHS dentists are in short supply. Private dentists also operate. For mental health, Devon Partnership NHS Trust provides community support. Pharmacists are located at the Health Centre in Okehampton. Registration for local health services is straightforward: bring your NHS card or passport.

• North Tawton Surgery – GP clinic (Mon-Fri)
• Okehampton Hospital – minor injuries and rehab
• Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital – A&E, major treatment
• NHS 111 – non-emergency helpline
• Emergency: dial 999
• Dentist: Okehampton Dental Practice (NHS/private)
• Pharmacy: Boots Pharmacy in Okehampton
• Optician: Specsavers in Okehampton
• Mental health: Devon Partnership NHS Trust
• Health visitor and midwife services at surgery
• Chiropody and physiotherapy – private in Okehampton
• Covid-19 vaccinations – local hub at Okehampton hospital
• Private health insurance: Bupa, AXA available
• Maternity care – Exeter St Michael's Maternity Unit

Accommodation in North Tawton

Visitors to North Tawton will find a range of accommodation options, from cosy bed and breakfasts to self-catering cottages. The two pubs, The Bell Inn and Old Commercial Inn, offer rooms with traditional character. There are also several holiday cottages in and around the town, ideal for family stays or walking holidays.

For longer stays, renting is possible but the market is tight. Most rental properties are private lets and often require a deposit and references. The average rent for a two-bedroom cottage is around £600-800 per month. Buying property is more common, with house prices averaging £250,000-350,000 for a 3-bed home. Cottages and farmhouses offer character, but modern homes are also available.

• The Bell Inn – B&B, 4 rooms, hearty breakfast
• Old Commercial Inn – traditional pub with rooms
• Taw Valley Cottage – self-catering, sleeps 4
• Orchard View Barn – luxury conversion, 2 bedrooms
• Bowden Brook Farmhouse – holiday let, large garden
• Rental agencies: local agents in Okehampton
• Buying: average 3-bed house £280,000
• Council tax band: B-C for most properties

Planning Your Move to North Tawton

Relocating to North Tawton requires careful planning, especially if coming from abroad. Start by securing a visa if needed. Arrange a bank account and register with a GP. Shipping belongings: international removals company. Finding a job or remote work in advance is recommended to ensure income.

The town's infrastructure is limited, so ensure you have a car – public transport is infrequent. Check broadband coverage (many areas have fibre). For families, check school places at North Tawton Primary. Pets: import regulations apply for pets arriving from abroad (microchip, vaccination, pet passport). Also, learn UK driving rules; you may need to exchange your licence.

Costs: average monthly living expenses for a single person are around £800-1,200 including rent/mortgage. Build an emergency fund. Get NHS registration as soon as possible. Join local Facebook groups or the parish council newsletter to integrate. Finally, enjoy the beautiful surroundings!

• Visa application (if non-UK citizen) – start 6 months early
• Open bank account – Monzo, Starling or high street
• Register with North Tawton Surgery
• Arrange employment or remote work contract
• Find accommodation – rent or buy (solicitor needed for purchase)
• Arrange school places for children
• Check internet providers: BT, Virgin, Openreach
• Set up utilities: water (South West Water), electricity (various), gas (some areas)
• Car – purchase or leasing needed; test driving lesson for UK roads
• Pet travel scheme – vet visit, paperwork
• Travel insurance for first few weeks
• Notify home country embassy of move
• Get UK driving licence – exchange or apply
• Plan budget for first 3-6 months

Leisure in North Tawton

Leisure activities in North Tawton revolve around the outdoors and community. The town has a sports field with a football pitch, a village hall for events, and a bowls club. The Taw Valley offers excellent fishing and walking. For more varied entertainment, Okehampton provides a cinema, leisure centre, and restaurants. North Tawton itself is quiet, with no nightlife to speak of.

Shopping is limited to a convenience store, post office, and occasional pop-ups. The nearest supermarkets are in Okehampton (Tesco, Co-op). For a wider choice, Exeter has major retail parks. However, the town's charm lies in its tranquility – perfect for those who enjoy gardening, reading, or exploring Dartmoor. The community pub is the social hub.

• North Tawton Sports Club – football, cricket, bowls
• Village Hall – yoga, pilates, dance classes
• River Taw – kayaking, wild swimming
• Bowden Wood – nature walks
• Okehampton Leisure Centre – swimming, gym
• Exeter shopping – Princesshay, John Lewis
• Local book group – meets monthly in library
• Pub quizzes at The Bell Inn

Transportation Options in North Tawton

North Tawton has no railway station; the nearest are Okehampton (on the Dartmoor Line to Exeter) and Exeter St Davids (main line services to London, Penzance). Okehampton station is a 10-minute drive and offers hourly trains to Exeter. Buses serve North Tawton: the 587 (Okehampton-Exeter) calls at the town, but services are limited, especially on Sundays.

Road access is via the A3124, which connects to the A30 dual carriageway at Okehampton. The A30 provides fast links to Exeter and Cornwall. Car ownership is almost essential for daily life. Taxis are available from Okehampton. Exeter International Airport is 40 minutes away, offering flights to European hubs. Cycling is popular, but the hilly terrain can be challenging.

• Bus: Stagecoach 587 service to Exeter (hourly weekday, limited weekend)
• Rail: Okehampton station – trains to Exeter (30 min) and beyond via changes
• Road: A30 to Exeter (25 miles) and Cornwall
• Taxis: Okehampton Taxis (phone booking)
• Cycling: National Cycle Network route 27 (Granite Way)
• Air: Exeter Airport (flights to Amsterdam, Paris, etc.)
• Car hire: available in Exeter or Okehampton
• Community transport: voluntary car schemes (ring-and-ride)
• Walking: Tarka Trail and footpaths
• Horse-drawn carriage – special events only

Everyday Life in North Tawton

Life in North Tawton is characterized by a slow pace, friendly neighbours, and a strong connection to nature. The town is safe with low crime rates, and most people know each other. Amenities are limited, so daily tasks often require a trip to Okehampton. Children walk or bus to school. Community events are popular and well-attended.

The town has a post office, but opening hours have reduced. There is no pharmacy in North Tawton – the nearest is Okehampton. Mobile reception can be patchy (O2 and Vodafone are decent; some areas have limited 4G). Broadband speeds are improving but vary. Many residents rely on satellite TV or streaming. Recycling collections are fortnightly

• Safety: very low crime, community watch active
• Children play outside safely
• Neighbourly relations: friendly and helpful
• Services: post office open mornings, local shop well-stocked
• Internet: average 30-50 Mbps on fibre; check providers
• Mobile coverage: better on hills; O2, Vodafone best
• Waste: kerbside collection weekly (recycling fortnightly)
• Community groups: gardening club, history society

Cost of Living in North Tawton

Compared to the UK average, North Tawton offers a lower cost of living, particularly in housing. Property prices are roughly 20% below the national average. Rent for a one-bedroom cottage averages £600-700 per month. Food and utilities are in line with national standards, but some items can be more expensive due to rural delivery costs.

Council tax is relatively low (Band B ~£1,600 yearly). Transport costs are a major factor due to car dependency: fuel prices are similar nationally, but mileage adds up. Eating out is affordable – pub meals around £10-15. Overall, a single person can live comfortably on £1,500-2,000 monthly, while a family might need £3,000-4,000.

• Housing: average property price £280,000 (national £350k)
• Rent: 1-bed £600-750, 3-bed £950-1,200
• Utilities: electricity/gas ~£150/month average
• Council tax: £1,600-1,800 per year (Band B)
• Fuel: £1.40 per litre approximately
• Groceries: co-op prices, perhaps 10% higher than big cities
• Pub meal: £12-16 for main course
• Cappuccino: £2.50 in local café
• Gym membership: £30-40 in Okehampton
• Childcare: £40-60 per day for nursery

Places to Visit in North Tawton

Though small, North Tawton itself has several points of interest. Start at the Market Square, with its ancient cross and cobbles. Visit St Peter's Church for its architecture and history. Walk along the River Taw to the old mill ruins. The Heritage Centre, open Saturdays, gives a deep dive into local stories.

Just outside town, Hembury Fort is an Iron Age hillfort with stunning views over the Taw Valley. The Bowden Wood nature reserve offers a peaceful loop trail. For outdoor men, the Grampus Stone at Sourton Tors is a striking granite tor with carving. Also, the Tarka Trail passes through the area – perfect for a long walk or cycle.

Nearby Okehampton (7 miles) has Okehampton Castle, a ruined Norman motte-and-bailey. Dartmoor National Park has endless attractions: yes tor climbs, wild ponies, and ancient stone circles. Lydford Gorge (11 miles) features a deep gorge and Whitelady Waterfall. Castle Drogo (15 miles) is a 20th