Our Devon Days Out series is here to provide some inspiration for day trips and delicious food across North Devon – this article focuses on our local market town of South Molton, and our home village of Kings Nympton – perfect for guests who don’t want to venture too far from the cottages – spend a day closer to home and get a real slice of Devon life.
South Molton
- Parking in the Central Car Park
- Public Toilets
- Dog Friendly
- Family Friendly
The historic market town of South Molton in North Devon is famously known as ‘the gateway to Exmoor’. It’s less than a 10 minute drive away and has plenty to keep you busy if you don’t want to travel too far from the cottages. Thursdays and Saturdays are market day – and our award winning local pannier market has just been voted the best community market in England for the 2nd year running – a great place to pick up local produce, delicious cakes and pastries, as well as plants, flowers and local crafts. On Sundays there is often a Flea Market or Salvage Fair, and every few months a fantastic food festival is hosted with a wide array of street food and local produce. The high street shops are well worth a mooch with a great selection of artisan food merchants, antiques dealers and fantastic gift shops. Among others, try the Cheese Larder for award winning local cheeses, the New Leaf for fantastic house plants, Approximate Odds for antiques and Daisy Park for unusual gifts.
Quince Honey Farm is a working honey farm and a great day out for all the family. From guided tours, soft play and beautiful gardens through to exclusive beekeeping experiences, there’s plenty to keep everyone happy! Plus the Nectary Restaurant is the perfect place for a Devon cream tea or delicious lunch.
South Molton Museum is located on the ground floor of the handsome Guildhall, completed in 1743 and situated on the south side of the town square. The Museum is managed by South Molton Town Council and volunteers, and engages with the local community to show the social history of the town and its evolution through the centuries. Admission is free but dogs are not allowed.
The Avo Craft Café is a unique offering which blends crafting supplies with a lovely gluten free café – you can purchase a wide array of crafting materials and kits to either take home, or to get to work with straight away in the café while you enjoy a coffee and a cake – great for kids especially on a rainy day.
Rock and Rapid Adventures is a local adventure sports center offering rock climbing, coasteering, axe throwing, archery, outdoor climbing and water sports.
The Castle Hill Estate is a 50 acre country estate comprising of gardens, woodland and a fantastic tea rooms. Take a gentle hike up to the historic Castle Hill House and enjoy the Grade II listed parkland and nature gardens.
Eating
A cream tea, lunch or brunch at the Nectary Restaurant at Quince’s Honey Farm is a must.
Try Zest or Stumbles in South Molton for bistro style dining, and the Lazy Daisy, Rachel’s Bakery and Tea rooms, the South Street Kitchen and Baker George are all lovely cafes doing light bites and moreish cakes!
The George Hotel does an excellent cream tea and Bar 27 is a great wine bar doing delicious sharing platters and often hosting live music and events.
Kings Nympton
- Easy walking
- Family friendly
- Dog friendly
Sometimes the best experiences are found in the heart of a country village – so be sure to make time to explore! You can walk to the village along the footpath from Tangled Bank; it takes around 40 minutes. King’s Nympton is a village, parish and former manor in the heart of the rolling countryside between Exmoor and Dartmoor. Nearly all of its 5,540 acres are given over to agriculture with beef, sheep, dairy, arable and egg production forming the bulk of farming activity. Visit the charming 13th-century St James’ Church with its beautiful stained glass windows and serene atmosphere. Take a moment to appreciate the history and architecture. Kings Nympton is surrounded by picturesque countryside. Take a leisurely walk or hike along the footpaths, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the scenic views – or pop down to Collacott and book some horse riding in!
Eating
We are so lucky to have the award winning Grove Inn as our local country pub. A traditional thatched Tudor property with roaring open fire, proudly serving local produce which is cooked to perfection. The wine, whiskey and gin selections are certainly worth a browse! Best to book ahead and do call to check opening times before setting off!
Several times a month our Community Cafe opens in the Parish Hall serving delicious breakfasts, cakes and lunches. Our village also occasionally hosts Safari Suppers – eating extravaganzas which start and end at the Parish Hall but involve travelling to local farms and homes for each course – a great way to get a real slice of country life and meet the locals. See the Kings Nympton website for dates and details.
