The town of ‘Tiverton’ in Devon has been around since the time of the Saxons and is situated on the side of a hill above where the River Exe and the River Lowman meet. The name ‘Tiverton’ originates from ‘Twyfordton’, which means ‘city of two fords’. The historic market town of Tiverton is conveniently located just minutes from junction 27 of the M5 motorway, easily accessible by both road and rail and the perfect base for exploring Mid Devon in the UK. With plenty to see and do for the curious tourist, Tiverton boasts its own castle built by King Henry I in 1106, medieval almshouses, Old Blundells School established in 1604, wonderful architecture, a museum, the old Victorian Town Hall and a rich tapestry of history to discover, investigate and explore. Guided walks throughout the area are available and can be pre-arranged for the well-planned visitor.
Tiverton Castle, which recently celebrated its 900th anniversary, underscores the richness and depth of history associated with this city. Once the medieval home of the Earls of Devon, the castle was built in 1106 by order of Henry I, and rebuilt and extended in the 13th and 14th centuries. With more additions and alterations over the centuries, both medieval and modern architecture can be seen, including beautiful walled gardens set amongst romantic ruins. While it’s certainly not the largest of English castles to visit, the beautiful gardens and informative things to see and discover are its main points of interest.
Old Blundells School is also steeped in a rich history and is a supporting asset for Tiverton’s stature and importance. Peter Blundell, one of the wealthiest merchants in the old Elizabethan England, founded the school. He left much money and land to found a school in his hometown of Tiverton after his death in 1601. He is reported to have said: “You are not a scholar, I will be the means of making more scholars than anyone else in England”. ‘-and this is exactly what he did. Sparing no expense in building the school, land was provided for its maintenance and the Blundells trustees established links between the best schools in the country, including Cambridge, Oxford, Balliol College and Sidney Sussex College, which remain to this day. . Blundells was destined to be the biggest and greatest school in the entire West Country, and his legacy lives on to this day.
The Tiverton Museum brings 18th and 19th century history to life in Mid Devon, with lots of information on the history of the lace industry in Tiverton. Following a lottery-funded redevelopment project, the museum has many galleries and exhibits to explore, an education and activities area, research facilities, and family history.
For those intending to stay for a few days to explore the Mid Devon area, accommodation in Tiverton is easily accessible for those touring the West Country. Favored by many visitors, The Tiverton Hotel offers excellent value for money, genuinely friendly service and ample parking facilities. Just minutes from junction 27 of the M5 motorway with beautifully landscaped gardens, it has also won the coveted ‘Tiverton in Bloom’ award several times.
