Attractions and Places To See around High Bickington - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around High Bickington, a rural village in the Torridge district of Devon, offer a blend of historical sites and natural beauty. Situated on a hill ridge, the area provides views over Exmoor and the Taw Valley, characterized by open farmland and ancient woodlands. Its history dates back to Saxon times, with mentions in the 1086 Domesday Book. The region is known for its diverse landscape, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.
Best attractions…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey
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Beam Aqueduct
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Puffing Billy Trading Co.
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Caroline Thorpe Memorial, Codden Hill
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South Molton Market Square
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Tips from the Community
Great cafe in a good cycling area, with loads of outside space for big groups.
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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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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motte and bailey castles continued to be built and occupied from the 11th to the 13th centuries, after which they were superseded by other types of castle.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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Beautiful at night and sunset, fantastic point to run walk or bike too if you like a bit of the off-road stuff. Interestingly its also built on the site of a Cold War bunker that was destroyed prior to the monument to JTs wife being built.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in and around High Bickington?
High Bickington is rich in history. You can visit the remains of an early medieval motte and bailey castle at Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey, a Norman fortification overlooking the Taw Valley. Another significant historical site is the Beam Aqueduct, an impressive 82-meter structure with five stone arches that carries the Rolle Canal over the River Torridge. St Mary's Church in the village also stands on a site with Saxon origins, reflecting centuries of local history.
Are there any viewpoints with scenic vistas in the area?
Yes, for stunning views, head to the Caroline Thorpe Memorial, Codden Hill. This viewpoint offers extensive vistas, particularly beautiful at night and sunset, and is interestingly built on the former site of a Cold War bunker. High Bickington itself is situated on a ridge, providing views over Exmoor and the Taw Valley.
What natural attractions are there for nature lovers?
Nature enthusiasts will enjoy Millbrook Cottage Lake, a scenic spot surrounded by dense woods, perfect for wildlife observation, fishing, bird watching, and leisurely walks. The High Bickington Community Woodland, also known as Quarry Wood, offers a mix of woodland and open space for recreation and conservation. The wider area features lush green fields, clear water brooks, and rambling rivers.
What outdoor activities can I do near High Bickington?
The region around High Bickington is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, including easy options like the 'Around the Mole loop from Chittlehamholt' or moderate routes such as the 'Rice Point Viewpoint – Rolle Canal Roving Bridge loop from Great Torrington'. For more details on hiking, visit the Hiking around High Bickington guide. Cycling and mountain biking are also popular, with routes like 'Wooded Path – Mosaic Otter Sculpture loop from Peters Marland' available. Check out the MTB Trails around High Bickington guide for more options.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in High Bickington?
Yes, families can enjoy the Beam Aqueduct, which is listed as family-friendly. Millbrook Cottage Lake is also an ideal location for a family picnic and leisurely walks. For a cafe stop that welcomes families, consider the Puffing Billy Trading Co., which has plenty of outdoor space. Further afield, The Milky Way Adventure Park offers an award-winning family experience with rides and shows.
Where can I find a good place to eat or grab a coffee?
High Bickington village has two pubs known for their friendly atmosphere. For a cafe stop, the Puffing Billy Trading Co., located in an old station, is a great option, especially for cyclists, offering plenty of outside space. The community shop also provides freshly baked goods.
What are some nearby attractions outside of High Bickington village?
A short drive from High Bickington, you can visit RHS Garden Rosemoor, a renowned garden approximately 6.4 miles away. About 16 miles distant is Okehampton Castle, a significant historical site that was once the largest castle in Devon. For family entertainment, The Milky Way Adventure Park is also within reach.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around High Bickington?
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical significance of sites like Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey, noting its imposing presence even after 1000 years. The Beam Aqueduct is praised for its impressive structure and the relaxing sound of rushing water. The extensive views from Caroline Thorpe Memorial, Codden Hill, especially at sunset, are also a highlight for many.
Are there opportunities for running or jogging in the area?
Yes, there are several running trails around High Bickington. You can find routes like the 'Old Milk Dairy Bridleway – Puffing Billy Trading Co. loop from Great Torrington' or a 'Running loop from High Bickington'. For more options and details on difficulty, refer to the Running Trails around High Bickington guide.
Can I find facilities like cafes or shops easily?
Within High Bickington village, you'll find a community shop offering freshly baked goods and two pubs. The Puffing Billy Trading Co. is a well-regarded cafe, especially popular with cyclists, located in an old station. Additionally, South Molton Market Square, a short distance away, offers plenty of cafes for a mid-ride stop.
What kind of terrain can I expect on walks and trails?
The region around High Bickington features diverse terrain. You can expect a mix of woodlands, open farmland, and paths along clear water brooks and rivers. Many trails offer picturesque views from the ridge, which means some elevation changes. The area is known for its picturesque Devon countryside, providing varied walking and cycling experiences.
What is the significance of the High Bickington Community Centre?
Beyond being a local hub, the High Bickington Community Centre is home to the High Bickington Historical Society. This society maintains photo albums from the 19th and 20th centuries, offering a fascinating glimpse into the village's past and heritage.
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