We moved to this vibrant, small market town in West Devon in 2018 and have never looked back. In fact we wondered why we had not made the move sooner ! It is such a friendly, bubbly and scenic historic town, perfectly positioned on the edge of Dartmoor with easy access to a choice of coasts – East, South and West of Devon with also a quick hop over the border to Cornwall. The walks on Dartmoor are numerous and spectacular.
Tavistock has a calm, laid back feel, reminiscent of times gone by.
A rarity nowadays is to see a town so full of independent shops, cafes and hospitality, where a very warm friendly welcome awaits all visitors. There is plenty to visit, see and do in the town and close by.
Steeped in history and elegant architecture the town enjoys UNESCO World Heritage status. Visit the impressive Guildhall Heritage Centre to find out more about Tavistock’s past.
While you are there take a mooch around the famous Pannier Market (established in 1105!) and the perimeter shops. Check out Des at the chocolate stall, homemade chocolates – you won’t be disappointed.
Tavistock has a diverse wealth of independent shops, eateries and hospitality to tempt the most discerning of tastes with the promise of ‘something a bit different’.
Nestled on the edge of the Dartmoor National Park, lovers of the great outdoors can enjoy the beautiful landscape of Tors and open spaces. A host of activities for adventurers such as hiking, cycling and horse riding are on the doorstep also wild swimming, but we have not been brave enough to give this a go yet !
For a more relaxed pace, a gentle stroll in the park alongside the scenic river Tavy or beside the historic canal is ever popular. Tavistock is very dog friendly.
Why not come and see what’s on offer, rain or shine. There is something for everyone.
Here are a few of our recommendations when we have some free time.
BREAKFAST @ Bob’s East End Cafe ( Pannier market)
LUNCH @ The Kitchen – beautiful fresh food – love the whole menu ! (Russell Street)
https://thekitchentavistock.com
DINNER
The Cornish Arms Michelin bib gastro pub (rated top 12 in the country. Not to be missed and you will need to book. (West Street)
https://www.thecornisharmstavistock.co.uk/
Robertsons do great pizzas
https://robertsonstavistock.co.uk/
and for something different – tapas @ the Annexe (@ Rockmount)
https://theannextavistock.co.uk/
Its worth having a stroll down tucked away Paddons Row – pedestrianised – lots of quirky independent shops and a lovely cafe.
For all you gin lovers the Boutique gin shack is an absolute must, go and meet knowledgable Mel who will find out what your tastes are and will guide you through all the local independent gins of local distilleries. (West Street)
https://boutiqueginshack.co.uk/
Roots and Vines gorgeous petite shop filled to the brim with fresh produce and local delicacies.(West Street)
https://www.rootsandvines.co.uk/
Browse Knights Emporium with antique collectables and a fabulous live African parrot to greet you. (West Street)
https://www.facebook.com/knightsemporium/
If your’e feeling energetic we love to paddle board @ Lopwell Dam ( check the tide times before going) or Roadford lake.
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Fancy cycling ? Try Drakes trail (only walkers and cyclists) with an extremely long tunnel (Brunel’s Grenofen tunnel) and if you are feeling extra energetic you can cycle all the way to Plymouth..
(national cycle route 27).
One of our favourites is to walk around Lydford Gorge (great to do when its hot !) Circular walk
…and whilst your there visit the very friendly affectionate Lydford Gorge Alpacas – you’ll need to book.
Cream tea after some exertion at The Bedford Hotel or Two Bridges Hotel on the moor.
https://www.bedford-hotel.co.uk/
https://www.twobridges.co.uk/
Our favourite go to beach is Widemouth , its a lovely long beach, dog friendly all year round with a great cafe (Black Rock), this beach is good for surfing and boogie boarding – only 45 minutes drive away.
However, this is just a tiny snapshot !
There is so much more to see and enjoy …
One thing more we need to tell you about, and this we consider to be the very best event (there are many), is Dickensian Evening on the first Friday in December.
This is the BEST event in the calendar!!
It heralds Christmas in an old fashioned way. Shopkeepers are all dressed up in Dickensian outfits and many of the locals are too. Shops open late with live reindeer, Morris dancers, fire eaters / dancers, fake snow falling, carol singers, chestnuts roasting – and the list goes on…..
Visit Tavistock (visit-tavistock.co.uk)
We can’t wait to meet you – and don’t forget to pop in and see us at Cabana ! (West Street)