Attractions and places to see around Rose Ash include a variety of historical sites, rural landscapes, and local amenities. This small village in North Devon is characterized by its historical architecture and tranquil setting, offering views of the wider Devon landscape. The area provides opportunities to explore landmarks and viewpoints, showcasing its local heritage and rural English character. Visitors can discover several best attractions around Rose Ash, ranging from historical buildings to scenic routes.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
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This is a fabulous section of road cycling through Exmoor National Park along NCN 3. It's an undulating section which takes you across open moorland, wild landscapes and woodland corridors. The road is lovely and quiet and the views stretch for miles.
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Great place to stay and recover. From their webpage https://www.thepoltimoreinnnorthmolton.co.uk: The Poltimore Inn is a full 7 days a week pub, open 11:30am to 2:30pm and 5:30pm to 11pm on Monday to Thursday and all day from 11:30 am to 11pm on Friday, Saturday and Sundays.
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South Molton is a market town centred round a market square. It was a major part of the UK's wool trade and markets still thrive twice a week, although no longer just the domain of wool. There are plenty of cafes in South Molton for mid-ride nourishment
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This is an amazing ridge (called ridge RD funilly enough) which, on good days, you can see all the way to Dartmoor (BIG spikyish ridge to SW), Rackenford & Knowstone moor (S on next ridge over) and what I think may be the Blackdowns (Bigish ridge to the SE). There are usually ponies, sheep and cows, the latter of which sit in the road. There are also sometimes deer. The ridge its self is relatively flat, undulating a bit more to the west, so can be quite nice to ride. Just be aware since most ways up to the ridge are horrible hills!
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St Peter’s is a pretty church in the village of Knowstone. The south doorway of the church is believed to date to Norman times, however the surviving fabric appears to date to the 15th century.
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Stunning views over Exmoor: sheep grazing in long grass and golden moors backdropped against undulating hills. On clear days, you can see as far as Dartmoor. This stretch can be windy, so you may want to check a weather app before setting off – headwind here is tough!
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Look across to Dartmoor on a clear day. Tough going if there's a prevailing headwind!
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Rose Ash is rich in history, featuring many listed buildings. The Parish Church of St Peter, a Grade II* listed church, retains its medieval tower and north aisle. Nearby, St Peter's Church, Knowstone, also offers a glimpse into the past with its 15th-century fabric and a south doorway believed to be Norman.
Yes, Rose Ash is known for its historical architecture. South Yarde Farmhouse, a Grade I listed building, dates back to the late 15th or early 16th century and features a grand hall with richly moulded roof timbers. Adjacent to it is North Yarde House, a Grade II* listed building, which was likely the original kitchen range for South Yarde. Rose Ash House, possibly from the 16th or 17th century, also stands prominently in the village center.
The Rose Ash area offers views of the wider Devon landscape, including Dartmoor and Exmoor. For extensive views across open moorland and wild landscapes, consider the NCN 3 Through Exmoor National Park. Another spot for great views is Porchester's Post and Poacher's Crossing, Exmoor National Park, which provides panoramic vistas after a climb.
Cyclists can enjoy the NCN 3 Through Exmoor National Park, an undulating section across open moorland and woodland corridors with quiet roads and extensive views. For more road cycling options, explore the various routes listed in the Road Cycling Routes around Rose Ash guide, which includes moderate loops like the 'Spelt 42 Café & Bakery – Bampton Village Café Stop loop from Knowstone'.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. You can find easy trails like the 'St Peter's Church, Knowstone loop from Roachill' or the 'South Molton Market Square loop from South Molton'. For a comprehensive list of options, refer to the Easy hikes around Rose Ash guide.
Families can visit St Peter's Church, Knowstone, a pretty historical church. For refreshments and a place to rest, The Poltimore Inn is a family-friendly pub operating seven days a week, offering facilities for visitors.
Yes, for refreshments, The Poltimore Inn is a pub offering facilities and is open seven days a week. In South Molton Market Square, you'll find plenty of cafes for a mid-ride nourishment or a coffee stop.
While Rose Ash itself is a rural village with historical buildings, the nearby South Molton Market Square is listed as wheelchair accessible, offering a more inclusive experience for visitors.
The best time to visit Rose Ash for outdoor activities is generally during the warmer, drier months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September). This period offers more pleasant weather for exploring the scenic views, cycling routes, and hiking trails around the area, including Exmoor National Park.
South Molton Market Square is the center of a historic market town that was once a major hub for the UK's wool trade. Today, markets continue to operate twice a week, offering a vibrant local experience and a variety of goods. It's also a great spot for cafes.
Visitors appreciate the tranquil rural setting and the rich historical character of Rose Ash. The area is valued for its unspoiled collection of historical buildings, the charm of its village center, and the scenic views of the wider Devon landscape, including glimpses of Dartmoor and Exmoor. The quiet roads and extensive views along routes like the NCN 3 Through Exmoor National Park are also highly enjoyed.
Yes, there are several running trails available. You can find moderate routes like the 'Automated Cow Milking Farm – T-Junction Signpost loop from Doorpark Cross' or longer, more difficult options. For a comprehensive list of running routes, check the Running Trails around Rose Ash guide.


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