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At the western edge of Dartmoor National Park, the largest open land area in southern England, lies Tavistock, the largest market town in West Devon. Tavistock is also a prominent town on the banks of the River Tavy, which flows straightaway through town centre.
Tavistock Travel
You can travel to Tavistock via the A386 road which traverses Dartmoor National Park by way of Plymouth on the coast. If you are travelling from the east (i.e. Greater London, or Bristol), you will need to travel roundabout Dartmoor National Park utilising the A30 road, or the A38 through Exeter. A bus station is also located along the A386 in order to service adventures into Dartmoor National Park.
Historical Landmarks
Once you have arrived in Tavistock certain features of the town will immediately stand apart, mainly Bedford Square. And the old Tavistock Abbey ruins is another attraction you must view during your stay in Tavistock.
The founding of Tavistock reaches back to the 10th century when the Abbey was constructed and sanctioned by the Earl of Devon. Over the centuries, Tavistock Abbey has been damaged and reconstructed several times. And the old ruins are still visible to this very day near town centre.
Sir Francis Drake was born in the 16th century on the edge of town at Crowndale Farm too. And during the English Civil War, Tavistock once hosted King Charles I for a brief period.
Like most towns in Devon, Tavistock's railway was closed in the 1960's as part of the Beeching Axe. And the old train platform stands as a monument to the town's storied past as one of the most visited market towns in southern England.
Pannier Market and Goose Fair
Tavistock is infamous for its large covered Pannier Market which is put on every Friday. Also, the Pannier Market plays host to a number of special events throughout the year. But the town's most famous attraction remains the Goose Fair.
Goose Fair traces its origins as far back as the 12th century. On the second Wednesday in October, Tavistock displays a liveliness that is unrivalled in West Devon. Both residents and passing travellers take to the streets and partake of the wholesome festivities which go on for several days.
Other great features of Tavistock include the Tavistock Town Hall, which has a long history of its own to investigate during your stay, and the River Walk along the River Tavy in town centre. Indeed, one of the best ways to enjoy the peacefulness of Tavistock is to have a stroll beside the river. Shopping and other entertainment can be found along Brooks Street and Paddons Row too.
Many consider Tavistock "the gateway to Dartmoor". And this reputation is well-earned.
Places to Rest
You can find fine bed and breakfasts and guest houses on the outskirts of town a fairly short distance from Dartmoor National Park for instance. Tavistock has a reputation for quality holiday accommodations in town as well many hotels and self-catering facilities located along the River Tavy near town centre. Caravanning accounts for a huge portion of the traffic through Tavistock due to the town's natural proximity to Dartmoor National Park.
Accommodation in Tavistock
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