Attractions and Places To See around Nymet Rowland - Top 10
Attractions and places to see around Nymet Rowland include a variety of historical landmarks, natural landscapes, and cultural sites. This small village in central Devon is situated near the River Yeo and offers opportunities to explore the local environment. The area provides a mix of historical structures and natural features for visitors.
Best attractions and places to see around Nymet Rowland
- The most popular attractions is Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey, a historical site that consists of the remains…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey
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Eggesford Forest
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All Saints Church, Eggesford
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Tuckingmill Bridge, spanning the River Yeo
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North Tawton Town Square
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Great you enjoyed your passage via Tucking Mill
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A Grade-II listed stone bridge just outside Zeal Monachorum, Tuckingmill Bridge sits in a tranquil setting. It was likely built in the late 18th or early 19th century and spans the River Yeo (one of several in the area). With moss dappling its stonework, it's a lovely place to pause and admire the water.
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North Tawton is a lovely village with a particularly pretty square. The town hall is a Grade II-listed building dating to the 19th century whilst a mullion windowed house with a gorgeous door dates back to the 16th. A clock tower sits in the middle and was built in 1887. The poet Ted Hughes once called this village his home after buying a house here in 1961 with Sylvia Plath. Hughes continued to live in the village until his death in 1998.
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Overlooking the TawValley, at the northern end of Heywood Wood, stand the remains of an early medieval motte and bailey castle. Motte and bailey castles are medieval fortifications introduced into Britain by the Normans. This type of castle was made up of an artificial mound, or motte, on which was built a wooden or stone structure known as a keep. Next to this at least one bailey, a fortified embanked enclosure containing additional buildings, would be built. Although many were occupied for only a short period of time, motte and bailey castles continued to be built and occupied from the 11th to the 13th centuries, after which they were superseded by other types of castle. Heywood CastleAt Heywood the circular motte is about 8 metres high and almost 50 metres in diameter, surrounded by a rock-cut ditch 4 metres wide and 2 metres deep. Around the top of the motte is a bank, up to 4 metres high in places. The crescent shaped bailey which lies to the north-east of the motte is 60 metres long and 40 metres wide and bounded on all sides by a bank 2 metres rising to about 4 metres on the eastern side, where there is an entrance with a causeway across the ditch which extends to the outer bank, which surrounds both the motte and bailey. From the bailey to the motte on the north east side there is the possibility of a bridgeway. On the north side of the bailey a more modern entrance has been formed. https://www.devon.gov.uk/historicenvironment/explore-devons-heritage/heywood-castle-eggesford/
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This place is well worth a visit, it is a huge Norman castle mound. No structures are visible (Probably only a wooden keep now long gone) but really worth seeing, it is still quite imposing 1000 years on. "At Heywood the circular motte is about 8 metres high and almost 50 metres in diameter, surrounded by a rock-cut ditch 4 metres wide and 2 metres deep. Around the top of the motte is a bank, up to 4 metres high in places. The crescent shaped bailey which lies to the north-east of the motte is 60 metres long and 40 metres wide and bounded on all sides by a bank 2 metres rising to about 4 metres on the eastern side, where there is an entrance with a causeway across the ditch which extends to the outer bank, which surrounds both the motte and bailey. From the bailey to the motte on the north east side there is the possibility of a bridgeway. On the north side of the bailey a more modern entrance has been formed. The castle at Heywood possibly took the place of an earlier castle some 500 metres to the south in the grounds of Heywood House, on the steep valley side above the River Taw. An alternative theory is that both date to the 1130s and 1140s, and were built during the civil war between Matilda, daughter of Henry I, and his nephew Stephen." https://www.devon.gov.uk/historicenvironment/explore-devons-heritage/heywood-castle-eggesford/
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With a network of paths, this diverse woodland is a lovely place to explore. Keep a look-out for wildlife, wildflowers, and interesting fungi. Visit throughout the year; it's different in every season.
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This remote church has a peaceful atmosphere and is steeped in history. Whilst parts of the church date to the 15th century, much of it was restored and rebuilt in 1867. Inside the church, there are two 17th century monuments to the Chichester family and a large 18th century monument to William Fellowes in Italian marble.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Nymet Rowland?
The area around Nymet Rowland is rich in history. You can visit Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey, the remains of an early medieval Norman fortification overlooking the Taw Valley. Another significant historical site is All Saints Church, Eggesford, a remote church with parts dating to the 15th century. Don't miss North Tawton Town Square, featuring a 19th-century town hall and a 16th-century house. Also, the Grade-II listed Tuckingmill Bridge, spanning the River Yeo, offers a tranquil glimpse into local history.
Are there natural features or wildlife areas to visit near Nymet Rowland?
Yes, Nymet Rowland is surrounded by natural beauty. Eggesford Forest provides a diverse woodland with a network of paths perfect for observing wildlife, wildflowers, and fungi. You can also explore Meshaw Moor, a Devon Wildlife Trust site known for its wildflower-rich Culm grassland. The River Yeo, which flows through the area, is an integral part of the local landscape, and the broader Dartmoor National Park is accessible for extensive outdoor pursuits.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or running, are available in the Nymet Rowland area?
The Nymet Rowland area offers various outdoor activities. For hiking, you can find routes like the Eggesford Forest loop or the trail from Wembworthy to All Saints Church, Eggesford. Runners can enjoy routes such as the running loop from Bow or the Heywood Forest Parking loop. You can find detailed information and routes for hiking and running on komoot.
Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities around Nymet Rowland?
Families visiting Nymet Rowland have several options. Eggesford Forest is family-friendly, offering paths for exploration and nature observation. The War Horse Valley Country Farm Park and Quince Honey Farm are also noted as attractions providing delightful experiences, particularly for families. Many local walks and rides are suitable for all ages.
Where can I find cycling routes near Nymet Rowland?
For road cycling enthusiasts, there are several routes around Nymet Rowland. Options include longer rides like the St. Peter's Church, Tiverton loop from Lapford, or the Crediton Climb loop. Shorter, easier routes are also available, such as The Devonshire Dumpling loop. Detailed routes and information can be found on the Road Cycling Routes around Nymet Rowland guide page.
What cultural or artistic sites are available in the region?
Beyond historical landmarks, you can explore cultural sites such as the Ruth Smith Gallery for art enthusiasts. The Crediton Museum offers insights into local history and heritage. Additionally, the National Trust's Finch Foundry in Sticklepath provides a look into historical craftsmanship.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots in the Nymet Rowland area?
Yes, the area offers several scenic spots. Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey, overlooking the Taw Valley, provides historical interest along with views. The tranquil setting of Tuckingmill Bridge over the River Yeo is also a lovely place to pause and admire the scenery. Many of the walking routes through Eggesford Forest and the surrounding countryside offer picturesque views.
What is the best time of year to visit Nymet Rowland for outdoor activities?
The Nymet Rowland area is enjoyable throughout the year, with each season offering a different experience. Spring and summer are ideal for wildflowers and lush greenery, particularly in areas like Meshaw Moor and Eggesford Forest. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, while winter offers a peaceful, crisp atmosphere for walks, provided conditions are suitable. The diverse woodland of Eggesford Forest is noted as being different in every season.
Can I find local pubs or cafes near the attractions?
While specific cafes and pubs are not detailed for every attraction, the region around Nymet Rowland does feature local establishments. The Waie Inn is noted as a local attraction, and the charming North Tawton Town Square would likely have local amenities. Many villages in Devon offer traditional pubs and cafes where you can refresh after exploring.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gems' to discover?
Beyond the main highlights, consider exploring the quiet charm of St. Bartholomew's Church within Nymet Rowland itself, a historic church with remnants of a 12th-century structure. The peaceful setting of Tuckingmill Bridge, with its moss-dappled stonework, is also a delightful discovery. Exploring the network of paths in Eggesford Forest can lead to quiet spots for nature observation.
Are there any golf courses or fishing spots nearby?
Yes, for those interested in sports, Waterbridge Golf Course is available for golf enthusiasts. Anglers may find Stafford Moor Fishery a point of interest for fishing activities in the area.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Nymet Rowland?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The imposing Norman castle mound at Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey is highly regarded for its historical presence. The peaceful atmosphere and rich history of All Saints Church, Eggesford, are also frequently mentioned. Many enjoy the diverse woodland and network of paths in Eggesford Forest for its wildlife and natural charm.
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