Exeter Cathedral is but the crowning glory of Devon's wealth of medieval churches, replete with sumptuous fittings and monuments. The county's peak of prosperity from the late Middle Ages to the seventeenth-century is reflected too in its castles, its secluded manor houses, and its scores of sturdily built farmhouses. The delights of Devon's well loved seaside and country towns are explored from the distinctive merchants' houses of Totnes and Topsham to the elegant Regency crescents of Teignmouth and Sidmouth. The picture is completed by accounts of the creation of the docks at Plymouth, industrial relics, and the substantial but little known store of Devon's Victorian churches.
One of three launch titles in the new Slow series of regional UK guides from two of the UK's most distinctive travel publishers: Bradt and Alastair Sawday. Travel slowly and sustainably with Hilary Bradt, founder of Bradt guides and a resident of Devon, as she takes you on a personal 'slow' tour of Devon and Exmoor. Connect with the people, places, environment and heritage of this spectacular part of the country and discover for yourself the unsung delights, well known sights, wildlife, coast and countryside - not to mention the foibles of the locals - in this truly unique guide. Topping it off is an enticing selection of accommodation from the inimitable collection of Alastair Sawday.
Do you know? Which MP was the first woman to take her seat in parliament? Who was the man they could not hang? Which member of the Beatles lost his temper at a famous Devon landmark? A compendium of fascinating information about Devon past and present, this book contains a plethora of entertaining facts about the county's famous and occasionally infamous men and women, its towns and countryside, history, natural history, literary, artistic and sporting achievements, agriculture, transport, industry, and royal visits. A reference book and a quirky guide, this can be dipped in to time and time again to reveal something new about the people, the heritage, the secrets and the enduring fascination of the county. A remarkably engaging little book, this is essential reading for visitors and locals alike.
This title features: dynamic two-colour layout for easy navigation; colour section that gives a photographic overview of the region, together with special features of the particular counties, tailored itineraries and lists of the best things to do - whether it's walks, beaches or activities; and, top Don't Miss sights for each chapter. Explore the cliffs, moors, wooded river valleys and sandy bays of the Tarka Trail in North Devon. Discover Cornwall's rugged coastline, taking in bustling, whitewashed St Ives - home to Tate St Ives, the Barbara Hepworth museum and scores of pristine sandy beaches. Visit the mighty Gothic rocket of Truro.