Ashburton

Ashburton is a historic market town situated on the south-eastern edge of Dartmoor National Park in Devon. Located just off the A38 between Exeter and Plymouth, the town is well placed for exploring Dartmoor and the surrounding South Devon countryside.

History of Ashburton in Brief ...

Ashburton has a long history dating back to Saxon times, with the town recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. As one of Devon’s four ancient stannary towns, it played an important role in the administration and trade of tin mined on Dartmoor, helping to shape the prosperity and development of the surrounding areas. 

The town’s historic streets still reveal its past, with traditional shopfronts, old coaching inns and elegant Georgian buildings reflecting its development as a busy trading hub. St Andrew’s Church, with its impressive fifteenth-century tower, remains one of Ashburton’s most recognisable landmarks, while the historic St Lawrence Chapel provides a further link to the town’s medieval heritage. 

Today, Ashburton retains much of its traditional character while embracing a thriving independent spirit, with specialist shops and a lively food scene adding a contemporary dimension to this historic South Devon town.

It's a fact!

Sir Walter Raleigh was arrested for treason in The Old Exeter Inn in Ashburton before being imprisoned in the Tower of London and beheaded in Westminster.  

The Chapel of St Lawrence served as a school for over 600 years but it is now home to Ashburton’s heritage centre. 

Ashburton Carnival is one of the region’s oldest surviving community carnivals, originally dating back to the mid-1880’s.

Explore Ashburton in South Devon

Ashburton offers plenty to discover, whether you are interested in history, shopping, food, art or the great outdoors. 

Take a leisurely stroll along the town’s historic streets and browse the many independent shops, antique centres, galleries and boutiques. The variety of businesses makes it a particularly enjoyable destination for those who prefer discovering something a little different to the usual high-street experience. 

History fans can explore the town’s architectural heritage, visit St Andrew’s Church  and discover more about local life at Ashburton History Museum. The historic St Lawrence Chapel is another important landmark in the history of Ashburton, with its long association with education and community life. 

Food lovers are well catered for with many businesses offering opportunities to stop for a coffee, enjoy a leisurely lunch or make an evening of it. Ashburton also has a strong culinary reputation, with the Ashburton Cookery School adding to its appeal as a destination for food enthusiasts.

For the walkers and outdoor enthusiasts, Dartmoor is right on your doorstep. The surrounding countryside offers many opportunities to explore open moorland, river valleys and woodland trails. Enjoy scenic walks along the River Ashburn or follow sections of the Dartmoor Way through the surrounding countryside. Nearby Hembury and Holne Woods are also ideal for tranquil woodland strolls, with beautiful riverside views and routes offering a taste of Dartmoor's open landscapes.