Tiverton Town
Welcome to Tiverton
Tiverton is the largest town in Mid Devon. It has good transport connections being close to the M5, and Tiverton Parkway Train Station, which is on the main railway line. There are frequent trains to Bristol, London, the Midlands and the North of England, as well as Exeter, Plymouth and Cornwall.
Shopping in Tiverton
The town centre is proud of its independent traders with four retail quarters full of interesting shops to discover and explore. For a list of shops and places to eat in Tiverton see: Tiverton: Retail Quarters
Interesting Facts
This historic market town is blessed with some unique attractions. It is home to the award-winning Grand Western Canal Country Park which was established in 1971. This is one of the last remaining in the country still operating a horse drawn barge. Come and appreciate the beauty of the 11.5 mile stretch, which meanders through the Devon countryside. The canal provides a cycle route along its towpath and there are boats available to hire during the summer season.
Tiverton possesses its very own castle, originally built in the 11th Century but later adapted in the 13th and 14th centuries. A victim of General Fairfax, a lucky canon shot hit and destroyed much of the castle. It was redesigned as a fortified manor house in the 17th century. Tiverton Castle has been the home to powerful medieval Earls of Devon and even a Plantagenet Princess. It is now a private family home but is open to the public on selected days during the week. The Castle contains a pretty courtyard garden and an extensive armour collection.
Things to Do
Tiverton boasts a town trail and a tree trail which lead the visitor on a tour of the town’s heritage. Information regarding both of these is available from the town’s Tourist Information Service at Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon Life.
Tiverton also hosts a number of events throughout the year including Tiverton’s medieval charter fayre, the “Two Rivers” arts festival and food festivals among many others. Visit the local Cinema or head to the Theatre for live performances and entertainment. In summertime, listen to music from the town’s brass bad at Westexe bandstand.
Places to Visit
The Museum is itself award-winning and contains a host of local artefacts, rural and agricultural equipment. It houses the famous “Tivvy Bumper” steam train complete with a mock-up of the train station. Children are welcome to step aboard this charming engine and sound its whistle.
The historic Pannier Market building is located at the core of the town. This plays host to general markets during weekdays and award-winning streetfood night market events monthly during the summer season. It is also an important community hub hosting one off specialist events throughout the year.
Mid Devon Leisure Centre is located close to the town centre. It offers a state-of-the-art fitness studio, along with a swimming pool and tennis courts.
The iconic Knightshayes Court National Trust Property can be located a mile from the town centre. This eccentric Victorian Gothic revival house is surrounded by parkland, great for walks. It was the home of the Heathcoat-Amory’s and contains a formal garden, woodland and renowned kitchen walled garden. A play park is available for children looking to burn off some extra energy.
Walks
Tiverton Merchants’ Trail – Take a leisurely walk around Tiverton Town Centre, following the pavement medallions and read the information panels to learn about Tiverton’s historic buildings.
Tiverton Town Centre Circular Walk – This 2.5 mile mostly level walk takes you on a tour of the historic sites of Tiverton as well as passing through the main shopping areas of the town. Take your time to admire the buildings and have a browse in the many independent shops and eateries.
The Grand Western Canal – Walk the length of the Grand Western Canal, a total of 11 3/4 miles and plan your stops along the way for refreshment in the many pubs / cafes you pass en route.
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