Tavistock

Situated on the edge of Dartmoor, Tavistock is a fine market town thanks to the wealthy Dukes of Bedford who were responsible for many of the fine buildings. It was an early stannary town for assaying tin. Mines produced copper and later mills produced a woollen cloth known as Tavistock Kersies, bringing prosperity to the area.

Tiny workers cottages, known as Bedford Cottages, can be found around the town and are now highly sought-after as bijou holiday homes. Similar architectural style is used in the castle-like Bedford Arms. The Parish Church with its lofty tower has a stained glass window by William Morris and ornate tombs of local families. In the churchyard are the remains of the 10th century Tavistock Abbey with its cloister walls and monks' stillhouse. Navigator and explorer, Sir Francis Drake, was born in a farmhouse on the outskirts of Tavistock, and his home, Buckland Abbey is an interesting attraction nearby. His statue greets visitors entering the town on the Plymouth Road.

The High Street has a number of high-quality delicatessens and gift shops as well as banks and other services. The River Tavy babbles along behind the Market Hall and impressive Town Hall buildings in Bedford Square. The Pannier Market still does a brisk trade in local food, cheese and antiques. Goosey Fair, dating back to the 12th century, is still a traditional pre-Christmas Festival in Tavistock.