Attractions and Places To See around Sandford - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Sandford include a variety of historical sites, natural landscapes, and recreational paths. The region offers 20 notable locations for exploration. These attractions are situated within a landscape featuring rivers, parks, and historical structures, providing diverse points of interest.
Best attractions and places to see around Sandford
- The most popular attractions is Exe Valley Railway Path, a cycle way that follows the route of a former railway line. This path was operational between the late 1880s and the 1960s, connecting Dulverton to Exeter St David's.
- Another must-see spot is Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn, a historical site. This 18th-century water mill is still operational and houses shops and eateries, offering a riverside location.
- Visitors also love Shobrooke Park Lake and Stone Bridge, a historical site within a 180-acre park. The park features grand lakes and sweeping vistas, with a deer park present for hundreds of years.
- Sandford is known for historical sites, cycle ways, and natural monuments. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, including ancient mills, former railway lines, and expansive parks.
- The attractions around Sandford are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 20 upvotes and 5 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn
Highlight • Historical Site
The Mill is now also home to shops and eateries. With its gorgeous riverside location it is a lovely place to start or finish a walk, or stop partway along to refuel.
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Exe Valley Railway Path
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
It was almost entirely dismantled after ceasing operation and sections now hold footpaths. This stretch uses the section of the line as it curved round to Stoke Canon, joining the main Bristol line.
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Bickleigh Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
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Shobrooke Park Lake and Stone Bridge
Highlight • Historical Site
Now, the park is sometimes open to the public, with its grand lakes and sweeping vistas. The Devonshire Heartland Way traverses the southern section all year round.
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St Swithun's Church and Holy Well
Highlight • Natural Monument
If you hike up the lane opposite towards the village centre, you'll find the holy well embedded into a grassy bank on the eastern side.
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Tips from the Community
A lovely old castle but be aware of the steep hill ahead... 'Alpe d'heuz' style!
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Using the power of moving water to drive a mill wheel is an ancient invention of the human spirit of discovery, the origins of which can be traced back to times long past. Thanks to such a construction, human or animal muscle power could be easily replaced by the power of the natural elements through a watercourse - natural or artificially created - in order to grind grain into corn or press oil from fruit, for example. There are essentially two different ways of driving watermills: * Either the flowing water simply hits the blades of the water wheel from below to set it in motion; or * the water is guided above the wheel - usually through a so-called "mill channel" - and falls onto the blades; this type of construction is more efficient due to natural gravity.
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Very good walk with dog easy to follow. Last bit on quiet country lane.
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Bickleigh Mill is an 18th century water mill which is still working to this day. The Mill is now also home to shops and eateries. With its gorgeous riverside location it is a lovely place to start or finish a walk, or stop partway along to refuel.
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Scooped some water out, filtered it and a made a coffee.
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B&B & holiday cottages available. Good centre for exploring Devon from an attractive and historic setting.
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Great place for lunch or a Devon cream tea (cream first, jam on top - the proper way - this is Devon!). There's also a gift shop adjoining.
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Bickleigh Castle is a lovely manor house on the banks of the River Exe. Although the main building was destroyed during the Civil War, the central courtyard and other historic buildings still stand today. The original Norman motte castle was built in the late 11th century. Nowadays, the castle is used to host weddings, but it's still an interesting place to stop and take a look.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What family-friendly attractions are there around Sandford?
Families will find several enjoyable spots. Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn offers shops, eateries, and a riverside location. Shobrooke Park Lake and Stone Bridge provides 180 acres of parkland with grand lakes and a deer park. The River Exe at Brampford Speke features an accessible beach, perfect for picnics or paddling.
Are there any historical sites to visit near Sandford?
Yes, the area is rich in history. The Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn is an 18th-century working water mill. The Exe Valley Railway Path follows the route of a former railway line operational from the late 1880s. Shobrooke Park Lake and Stone Bridge is part of a historic estate that once housed an 18th-century manor. Additionally, St Swithun's Church and Holy Well is a medieval church dating back to the 15th century.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Sandford?
The region offers diverse outdoor activities. You can explore cycling routes like the Exe Valley Railway Path, which is also dog-friendly. For more structured adventures, there are dedicated guides for MTB Trails, Running Trails, and Cycling routes around Sandford.
Are there any good walking or hiking trails around Sandford?
Yes, the area provides several walking opportunities. The Exe Valley Railway Path offers an easy, dog-friendly walk along a former railway line. Shobrooke Park Lake and Stone Bridge features the Devonshire Heartland Way traversing its southern section. For more options, explore the Running Trails around Sandford guide, which includes various walking routes.
Where can I enjoy nature and scenic views in the Sandford area?
For natural beauty, visit Shobrooke Park Lake and Stone Bridge, which boasts grand lakes and sweeping vistas within its 180-acre park. The River Exe at Brampford Speke offers a lovely riverside spot for picnics and views. You can also find wonderful pastoral landscapes from St Swithun's Church.
Are there any dog-friendly places to visit?
Absolutely! The Exe Valley Railway Path is noted as a very good walk for dogs. Many of the outdoor trails and paths in the region are suitable for walks with your canine companion.
What are some unique local experiences or hidden gems in the area?
A unique experience is visiting Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn, an 18th-century water mill that is still operational and houses shops and eateries. It's also a great place to enjoy a traditional Devon cream tea. The holy well embedded in a grassy bank near St Swithun's Church offers a glimpse into local folklore.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the attractions?
Yes, Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn is an excellent option, offering eateries and a riverside location, perfect for lunch or a Devon cream tea. Many villages and towns in the wider Sandford area will also have local pubs and cafes.
What is the best time of year to visit attractions around Sandford?
The attractions around Sandford, particularly the outdoor paths and parks, are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking and cycling, while autumn provides beautiful scenery. Some attractions, like Shobrooke Park, are sometimes open to the public, and the Devonshire Heartland Way is accessible all year round.
Are there any attractions with parking facilities?
While specific parking details for every attraction are not always listed, popular sites like Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn typically offer parking for visitors. For outdoor trails, it's advisable to check local information for designated parking areas or consider starting points in nearby villages.
What kind of wildlife can I spot in the Sandford area?
The natural landscapes around Sandford, particularly in areas like Shobrooke Park, are home to wildlife. The park has had a deer park for hundreds of years, offering a chance to spot deer. Riverside locations like the River Exe also provide opportunities for birdwatching and observing aquatic life.
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