Surrounded by the spectacular countryside of Devon, Tiverton is a charming English town watched over by the remains of a medieval castle. On its outskirts stretches the Grand Western Canal, which was originally constructed to transport lime and is now a recreational paradise for walkers, cyclers and birdwatchers.
Things to do in Tiverton
Perched above the banks of the River Exe is Tiverton Castle, which comprises the remains of medieval towers, a Norman motte and a 17th-century country house. Learn about the storied history of the castle as you explore its period-furnished rooms and try on armour dating from the English Civil War. The castle’s walled gardens are planted with rare species, fruit trees and vegetables.
On the other side of town is the Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon Life, which occupies a Grade II-listed former National School building. Its exhibits reflect the social and economic life of the region and include agricultural equipment, vintage teddy bears and a patented lace frame. Not to miss is the “Tivvy Bumper”, a steam locomotive that operated along the Great Western Railway between 1934 and 1965.
Tiverton is home to one of the last remaining horse-drawn barges in Great Britain, with pleasure cruises available at the Grand Western Canal Country Park. Stop by the interactive Visitor Centre before letting the kids run loose in the canal-themed play park. Hiking and cycling trails also hug the shores of the canal.
Getting around Tiverton
Tiverton is around 30 minutes’ drive from Exeter Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe. Trains connect from London to the Tiverton Parkway railway station, which is around five minutes’ drive east of the town centre. Regular buses connect from Exeter while the centre of Tiverton is small enough to explore on foot.