Did you know, Lydford Gorge is a temperate rainforest? And a hike through the gorge can feel like walking through a jungle - with mosses, ferns, lichens, and liverworts covering nearly every surface. Temperate rainforest habitat is globally rare, covering less than 1% of the planet, and is thought to be more scarce than tropical rainforests. In the UK they are only found in the west of the country, and the mild, humid conditions found in the gorge are what they need to thrive. As the River Lyd and Whitelady Waterfall crash through the gorge they release moisture into the air which helps to keep it lush and green. The walking trails are a challenging and rewarding adventure with longer or shorter options to choose from. There are two tea-rooms, perfect for a tasty treat at the start, end, or even half-way through your hike. The large second-hand bookshop is stocked with classic novels, children's books and non-fiction titles galore, there's sure to be something that takes your fancy. You can help look after this place when you visit this summer by taking only photographs and leaving only footprints. Are you ready for a rainforest adventure? 

For more information click here

Tavistock Pannier Market will be opening its doors on Monday’s for the Summer starting on July 17th and running for 6 weeks until August 21st. We will also be launching a two-week Superhero Trail on Monday 31st July, with lots of free goodies for children with any completed trail. Additionally, there will be a fun packed Superhero day on Saturday 12th August which will include a number of fun superhero themed activities which are completely free for children to take part in. Don’t worry if you’re not a budding superhero though, we have lots of fantastic stalls on offer for the adults. You’ll find everything from antiques and collectables to locally made gifts and crafts.

We look forward to welcoming you this summer to our Market Complex with our amazing stall holders, independent perimeter shops and an array of cafes including our in-house Bob’s East End Cafe.

If you’d like to be part of the fun this Summer as one of our traders then we are currently accepting applications for new day traders. If you’d like further information on trading in Tavistock Market, or for all general enquiries, please contact us by email here or on 01822 611003.

Well we’re back!! So pleased to announce that The Chagford Agricultural and Horticultural show now entering its 120th year will be held on Thursday 17th August 2023. Situated on the beautiful banks of the Teign at Mill End (TQ13 8JN), Chagford, courtesy of The National Trust, Malseed Family, Mr P Morrish, Mr H de Ferranti and Miss B Hayter-Hames. There is ample free parking, and free buses run from Moretonhampstead and Chagford all day. 

With competition classes for agricultural produce, horses, sheep, cattle, dogs, and a vintage section, the Chagford Show embodies the best traditions of a proper country show. Not too big, not too small, and easy to get around. There are over 200 Trade Stands, a Rural Crafts area, a Food Hall displaying the best of local producers, a Beer Tent and lots of live music throughout the day. The Main Ring carries a full day of special attractions –this year it’s the Paul Hannam Stunt Show and the Sheep Show. There is also terrier racing, a parade of vintage tractors and cars and a lot more.  The Chagford Show has something for everyone and is a great family day out, come and see for yourself.  

Full details of the 2023 Show appear on the website here and tickets will be available online shortly in August. We look forward to welcoming you all. 

Okehampton show really is a fun day out for all the family, combining the traditions of Agriculture with entertainment for all. 

The traditional showing classes for Cattle, Sheep, Goats, Pigs and Horses predominantly take place during the morning and are celebrated with the Grand Parade of Champion Livestock and Horses in the Main ring during the afternoon. A spectacle that should really not be missed. 

Around the Showground there is entertainment all day long, with the entertainment ring showcasing Falconry, Gun Dog Display, Dangerous Steve, and the not to be forgotten Fun Family Dog Show. Ferret racing is just next door. 

As you walk around the showground you will come across everything  rural demonstrations and Morris Dancing teams. 

The Music stage has a full programme of entertainment in its new position in the Sheep field, a larger area with better viewing on its slope and seating and picnic tables provided and catering vans providing delicious food nearby. 

The Vintage section will be parading in the Main Ring as well as their static display of over 150 vintage tractors and vehicles. 

New for this year featured in the Main ring we have Paul Hannam- stunt quad bikes followed by the traditional packs of Hounds and a fast and furious competition of the Pony Club Mounted Display Teams. 

Getting to the showground is easy, just to the north of Okehampton Town, pop the postcode EX20 1SW into your Sat Nav. There is designated disabled forward parking in the public carpark as well, just display your blue badge. 

Advance discounted tickets available here

The South Devon Railway is a wonderful place to bring the kids this summer, now that school is out and parents and grandparents are looking for places to go and adventures to have!

The scenic seven mile railway between Buckfastleigh and Totnes features steam locomotives, full of history, built in the 1920s and 30s hauling trains of vintage carriages along the stunning valley of the River Dart, hugging the riverside for almost all of your journey. The valley itself is rich in wildlife and affords lovely views of unspoilt countryside.

There’s plenty more to see too, with a museum, gardens and historic locomotives and carriages on display at Buckfastleigh. On certain days, there’s even a miniature railway and a garden railway in operation. At the other end of the line, Totnes town is a short walk from the SDR’s station.

For a really full day out, the fascinating Dartmoor Otters & Buckfast Butterflies is also at Buckfastleigh station while, next to the steam railway’s station at Totnes Riverside, the Totnes rare Breeds Farm provides a brilliant opportunity to get close to a whole host of friendly animals. For more information and to book tickets, go to the railway’s website