Great Torrington - An Historical Town

Great Torrington is a friendly, welcoming town, set in the midst of rolling, unspoilt green countryside. An ancient settlement extraordinarily sited on an inland cliff top with steep drops down to the River Torridge below. This impressive situation offers spectacular views. Great Torrington for years was valued for its strategic importance. The town had a significant role in the English Civil War, specifically, the Battle of Torrington in 1646 which marked the end of Royalist resistance in the West Country. Great Torrington today has become well recognised as an important heritage centre for the history of the 17th century. It is a vibrant community and people in the town, proud of their heritage, can often be seen dressed in costume for re-enactments, festivals and celebrations.

The essential hub for both visitors and residents to learn about places and activities in and around Great Torrington must be the towns Information Centre at Castle Hill.

The Plough Arts Centre

The centre provides exciting opportunities for all people to experience a wide and vibrant range of high quality arts events both as audience and participants. Through creative partnerships the Plough Arts Centre is a welcoming and dynamic venue for artistic expression and education, responsive to the needs of the local community and a beacon for the arts across North Devon - visible and valued throughout the South West.

From our stunning rural setting we offer a varied and exciting programme of arts events and activities. We aim to entertain, inspire, educate and challenge in equal measure. Our packed annual programme includes film, live events, exhibitions, workshops and educational outreach for people of all ages, interests and abilities. We think we are ‘the largest arts centre in the smallest town’ and we know our positive impact is felt across the region.

More info at the website..

Rosemoor - RHS Garden

Set deep in the lovely North Devon countryside, RHS Garden Rosemoor is a garden of national importance. Lady Anne Berry gifted Rosemoor to the RHS and the RHS has added features such as the Formal Garden, extensive herbaceous borders, herb and cottage gardens, a potager, the Foliage and Plantsman's Garden and extensive stream and lakeside plantings.

Recent additions include the Mediterranean and semi-tropical plantings which have been thriving during the recent long hot summers and the newly planted Winter Garden. But what is perhaps the most popular feature of this delightful garden is the extensive rose garden, proving beyond doubt the lie that the West Country cannot produce beautiful roses.

Further Information

If you want to find out more about Great Torrington they have a very informative website with lots of ideas about all the things ther are to see and do. Visit Great Torrington Tourist Information...