© David Nicholls
Ashburton doesn’t stand still. An attractive rural town in fantastic surroundings and with a relaxed pace of life, it’s a desirable location for new shops and restaurants. With its strong and supportive community there is always something going on – and visitors are always welcome!
An eclectic mix of independent shops cater to all tastes and occasions: antique shops crammed with collectibles, curios and period pieces; boutiques showcasing timeless elegance and quirky fashion; and jewellers and gift shops offering unique gifts for family and friends or something special for that special someone.
Busy restaurants, pubs, cafés and tea rooms buzz with conversation whilst tantalising aromas beckon you in from the street – just step inside for a real taste of Ashburton.Local beer, gin and mixers take pride of place among wines from every corner of the world in the wine shops and bars whilst in the delicatessens and artisan bakery you can sample the best produce the South West has to offer.
Kids will love the skate park whilst the whole family will enjoy the open air swimming pool with its cafe and space to relax and enjoy a picnic.
The inquisitive will enjoy the museum, a visit to St Lawrence Chapel or wandering through historic lanes surrounded by unusual architecture that tells of a rich and varied history.
As the sun goes down, enjoy socialising with friends at a traditional pub or perhaps eat out at one of several excellent restaurants – most ingredients come from the local area so not only will your food taste great, it’s good for the environment and our community too.
For entertainment there are regular concerts and local bands at several venues in the town and the local community cinema has regular showings of highly acclaimed movies in a relaxed and informal environment complete with cushions and a bar!
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More about Ashburton
Ashburton is a colourful, quirky and vibrant historic town nestling in beautiful surroundings on the edge of Dartmoor National Park in Devon, Ashburton is not only the Southern Gateway to Dartmoor, with a choice of local hotels, B&Bs, self-catering accommodation and campsites, it’s also the ideal base from which to explore the whole region – from moor to sea.
An eclectic mix of independent shops cater for all tastes and occasions. Busy restaurants, pubs, cafés and tea rooms buzz with conversation whilst tantalising aromas beckon you in from the street – just step inside for a taste of the best the South West has to offer!
Ashburton is steeped in history, legend and tradition
St Lawrence Chapel, home to the Courts Leet and Baron, housed Ashburton Grammar School which educated a number of famous people including William John Wills who with Robert Burke mounted the first expedition to cross Australia in 1860.
Ashburton History Museum is full of exhibitions of Dartmoor artefacts, local history and geology, posters, and documents which are spread over three floors. These help to bring alive the town’s history and the lives of Ashburton’s worthies and everyday townsfolk.
Both St Lawrence Chapel and the museum are open first week in May until end of September on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays from 2-4pm and Saturdays from 10am-12 noon. Entry is free but donations are welcome!
St Andrews Church was rebuilt in the 16th century, the church originated as a Norman chapelin the 12th century and some remains are incorporated in the building. It’s is open every day from 10:30am-4pm.
The Old Exeter Inn is one of Britain’s oldest pubs and the oldest in Ashburton. It was built in 1130 to house workers building the church.Local legend has it that Sir Francis Drake was a regular patron at the inn as was Sir Walter Raleigh who was arrested at the Exeter Inn before being imprisoned in the Tower of London in 1603.
Ashburton Blogs
What is a Portreeve?
“They do Serve Good Ale Here!”
Treasure Trove Hunting
Ashburton’s Maritime Legends
Ashburton’s History Reflected in its Town Crest
