Okehampton

Okehampton is on the northern edge of Dartmoor on the River Okement.The name is obviously derived from the River which is from the Celtic meaning fast and noisy. Although there is some evidence of early settlements in area, the town is believed to have been founded when the Saxons arrived in the area. It is situated on the main A30 route into Cornwall and as such has always been a strategically important town.

It has one of the largest castles in Devon, originally built by the Normans as the base of the first Sheriff of Devon, Baldwin de Brionne. It was mostly rebuilt in the 14th Century by the Earls of Devon, the Courtenay family. It is now in ruins and has been reclaimed by nature making it a beautiful place to visit and it is maintained by English Heritage. The castle has been painted by a number of artists over the years including JMW Turner and Lamorna Birch.

Other interesting buildings in the town include Chapel of St James dating from 15th century and the Museum of Dartmoor Life housed in a mill.

Okehampton is promoted as the gateway to Dartmoor and as such it is an ideal base to for visitors to use when they wish to enjoy one of Britain's most beautiful untamed landscapes. As well as walking, people can join in a number of activities including horse riding and cycling

Okehampton Hotels
Okehampton Cottages