"A town for all reasons!"
A colourful, quirky and vibrant historic town in beautiful surroundings on the edge of Dartmoor National Park in Devon. 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!
Just 5 miles from Lower Venton, with two small convenience stores, delicatessens and an excellent wine shop it's a convenient place to pick up supplies.
History
Ashburton's past prosperity came from the tin mining of Dartmoor and the woollen industry with the river Ashburn providing ample power for the many mills that once lined its banks. Ashburton is one of only four stannary towns in Devon and tin was mined in the area as far back as Roman times. The importance of tin mining was reflected in the tinner’s law and the stannary parliament and is reflected in the rich architecture of the town.
Things to See & Do
The most prominent building in Ashburton is the Church of St Andrew. The present day church bears little resemblance to the 12th century Norman chapel from which it has evolved and which is depicted on the town crest. The Chapel of St Lawrence is home to a display of the town's history, particularly in regard to its ancient Courts Leet & Baron and the Ashburton History Museum has rotating displays of artefacts and collections from the town's past.
Places to Eat
Ashburton is a very foodie town with some fantastic places to enjoy a meal or have a drink. Rafikis has a quirky but comfortable atmosphere and is open most days and is a great place for breakfast, lunch or dinner, or just meeting friends for a coffee or drink. Emilia is a Michelin Guide restaurant offering a taste of Italy here on Dartmoor, whilst their Bar au Vin is a great place for a drink and light snack. Taylor's for Tea is the quintessential English tea rooms, attracting visitors from around the world with is traditional afternoon and cream teas. The Old Library is cosy place for breakfast or lunch and the Exeter Inn offers traditional pub grub. On the edge of town, the Dartmoor Lodge is popular locally for its Sunday carvery. For a livelier atmosphere, the Silent Whistle is a local favourite.
Shopping
If you're looking for supplies, there are two small convenience stores and a butchers shop. The Ashburton Deli and the Fish Deli offer award winning local produce and Jaded Palates has a fantastic selection of local beers and ciders alongside wines and spirits from around the world.
Ashburton's Antiques Trail is made up of the many shops selling antiques and collectibles and draws visitors from around the country and there a number of small independent gift and crafts shops and a jeweller.
What's On
An Ale Tasting & Bread Weighing Ceremony takes place on the third Saturday in July and commemorates an ancient practice for testing the quality of goods sold in the town. It's an entertaining event ending with a bread auction to raise funds for local causes. The Ashburton Food Festival takes place on the first or second Saturday in September and the Christmas Fair is on the first Thursday in December.
Ashburton Arts is a quirky community arts centre and music venue hosting frequent plays, films, events and music performances as well as having a regular group programme.
More Information
Discover Ashburton: discoverashburton.info
Visit Dartmoor: www.visitdartmoor.co.uk