Ashburton Travel Guide
Explore the culturally rich and naturally scenic town of Ashburton in Devon, United Kingdom. Find the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety tips, and transportation options in this tour guide.
- Introduction to Ashburton
- List of Places to Visit in Ashburton
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Ashburton
- The Templar Way
- Drake’s Trail
- Best Things to Do in Ashburton: Activities and Tours
- Ashburton Cookery School
- Ashburton Arts Centre
- Week-Long Itinerary for Ashburton
- Food and Drink Scene of Ashburton
- Where to Stay in Ashburton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Ashburton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Ashburton
- Best Time to Visit Ashburton
- Do’s and Don’ts of Ashburton
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Ashburton: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Ashburton
- Where to Go Next from Ashburton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Ashburton
Ashburton is a charming market town nestled in the heart of Devon, in the West Country of England. The town has a rich history dating back to the Saxon era and boasts picturesque streets lined with traditional buildings and unique shops, making it a perfect destination for leisure travelers and history enthusiasts alike. In this travel guide, we will explore the top places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety tips, and transportation options in Ashburton.
List of Places to Visit in Ashburton
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Ashburton Museum
Ashburton Museum is a must-visit for those who want to learn about the rich history and culture of the town. The museum is housed in a beautiful 15th-century building that was once the town’s St. Lawrence Chapel. It has a vast collection of artifacts, paintings, and photographs detailing the history of Ashburton and the surrounding area.
St. Andrews Church
St. Andrews Church is an iconic landmark in the town and a prime example of medieval architecture. It is known for its impressive stained glass windows and intricate designs, which are a feat of craftsmanship and artistry.
Dartmoor National Park
Dartmoor National Park is on the doorstep of Ashburton and is an excellent place to explore the natural beauty of Devon. The park has striking landscapes, diverse wildlife, stunning rock formations, and ancient ruins, making it the perfect place for outdoor adventures.
Natural Attractions of Ashburton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
The River Dart
The River Dart is just a short walk from the town’s center and a perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic on the riverbanks. The river offers an idyllic setting for kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding and provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Hembury Woods
Hembury Woods is a beautiful woodland area located on the outskirts of Ashburton. It has a variety of walking trails, ranging from easy to strenuous, and offers splendid views of the surrounding countryside. The woods are also home to a range of flora and fauna, including bluebells, wildflowers, and red deer.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Ashburton
The Templar Way
The Templar Way is a popular walking and hiking route that starts in Ashburton and takes you on a scenic journey through the atmospheric forests and rolling hills of the West Country. The route is approximately 28 miles long and offers stunning views of the Dartmoor countryside and the Bristol Channel.
Drake’s Trail
Drake’s Trail is a popular cycling route that runs between Plymouth and Tavistock, passing through Ashburton. The trail is 21 miles long and offers a mix of stunning scenery, charming villages, and historic sites along the way.
Best Things to Do in Ashburton: Activities and Tours
Ashburton Cookery School
Ashburton Cookery School is a great place to channel your inner chef and learn how to cook traditional Devon dishes. The school offers an extensive range of courses, from one-day cooking workshops to week-long culinary courses.
Ashburton Arts Centre
The Ashburton Arts Centre is a contemporary cultural hub in the town’s center, providing a space for visual and performing arts. The center hosts various events and workshops, including art exhibitions, film screenings, spoken word events, and concerts.
Week-Long Itinerary for Ashburton
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Spend a day exploring Ashburton’s historical sites and traditional streets |
| 2 | Take a walk along the riverside and explore the beautiful scenery surrounding Ashburton |
| 3 | Visit the Ashburton Museum and learn about the town’s rich history |
| 4 | Take a trip to Dartmoor National Park and explore its diverse landscapes and ancient ruins |
| 5 | Discover Hembury Woods and enjoy the woodland trails and panoramic views of the countryside |
| 6 | Join a cookery course at Ashburton Cookery School and learn how to cook traditional Devon dishes |
| 7 | Spend the day wandering around the Ashburton Arts Centre, enjoying the various cultural events and exhibitions on offer. Finish your day with a delicious meal in one of Ashburton’s local restaurants. |
Food and Drink Scene of Ashburton
Must-Try Dishes
Devon is famous for its locally-sourced produce, including fresh seafood, meat, and vegetables. In Ashburton, you can sample some of the best Devonshire dishes, such as the traditional Devon Cream Tea, which includes scones, clotted cream, and jam, and Bread and Butter Pudding, a classic dessert made with bread, butter, and fresh cream.
Local Beverages
Devon is known for its ciders and ales, and Ashburton is home to several local breweries that produce craft ciders and beers. The town also has distilleries that produce artisanal gins, such as Salcombe Gin and Dartmouth Gin, which are perfect for a refreshing drink on a warm summer day.
Where to Stay in Ashburton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Ashburton offers a range of accommodation options for a comfortable stay, which include charming guesthouses, traditional inns, and affordable hostels. The town’s central location makes it an excellent base to explore Devon and the West Country.
What to Buy in Ashburton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Visitors to Ashburton can buy a range of locally-made souvenirs, such as pottery, art, and handmade crafts. The town has a range of unique shops and boutiques that sell Devonshire-made products, including artisanal chocolates, local ciders, and organic produce.
Local Culture and Customs of Ashburton
Ashburton is a town steeped in tradition and culture, with Saxon and medieval influences evident in its architecture and way of life. Devonians are known for their friendliness and hospitality, and visitors can expect a warm welcome in Ashburton.
Best Time to Visit Ashburton
The best time to visit Ashburton is in the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the town is bustling with cultural events and activities. However, visitors can also enjoy Ashburton’s tranquil beauty in the off-season months, with crisp autumn days and snowy winter landscapes.
Do’s and Don’ts of Ashburton
Do:
- Try the traditional Devon dishes, such as the classic cream tea and fish and chips.
- Take a walk along the River Dart and explore the surrounding picturesque scenery.
- Visit the Ashburton Museum to learn about the town’s rich history.
- Participate in outdoor activities, such as hiking or cycling.
- Be respectful of the town’s history and cultural heritage.
Don’t:
- Litter or damage the town’s natural environment.
- Be disrespectful to the locals or their way of life.
- Ignore the safety guidelines when participating in outdoor activities.
- Pick wildflowers or disturb wildlife.
- Behave rudely or inappropriately in public spaces.
Safety and Health
Safety in Ashburton
Ashburton is a relatively safe town, with low crime rates and a friendly community. However, visitors should remain vigilant and take appropriate precautions when participating in outdoor activities, such as hiking or cycling. It is essential to follow the safety guidelines and regulations and avoid venturing out alone in remote areas, especially at night.
Health in Ashburton
The town has a range of medical facilities, including a hospital and several clinics, to cater to the medical needs of visitors and locals alike. It is recommended to take adequate measures to prevent illness, such as washing hands frequently and observing social distancing guidelines in public spaces.
Getting to Ashburton: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Ashburton
The closest international airports to Ashburton are London Heathrow Airport and Exeter Airport. From the airport, visitors can travel to Ashburton by train or bus.
Bus Stations Near Ashburton
Ashburton has a regular bus service that connects it to nearby towns and villages and the nearest major cities such as Plymouth and Exeter.
Other Options
Visitors to Ashburton can also travel to the town by car, with several major roads connecting Ashburton to the rest of the UK, including the M5 and the A38.
How to Get Around in Ashburton
Ashburton is a small town, and most of its attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, visitors can also explore the town and its surroundings by bike, car, or bus.
Where to Go Next from Ashburton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Visitors to Ashburton can explore several nearby attractions and destinations, including:
- Plymouth: A vibrant coastal city known for its maritime heritage and the historic Barbican.
- Salcombe: A picturesque seaside town famous for its beaches and beautiful coastal scenery.
- Torquay: A classic seaside resort renowned for its sandy beaches, palm trees, and watersports.
Conclusion
Ashburton is a hidden gem in the West Country of England, offering visitors a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural prosperity. It boasts thriving food and drink scenes and a range of outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination for families, couples, and individual travelers. With our comprehensive travel guide, visitors can explore the top attractions, enjoy traditional Devonshire dishes, and immerse themselves in Ashburton’s rich heritage and culture.
