Clyst Saint Mary brings together a variety of reasons to visit: the medieval Clyst St Mary Bridge and the parish church provide a historical focus, while Crealy Theme Park & Resort and Westpoint offer attractions and events, respectively. Rare black poplars add a nature angle to the village’s character. These differences give your planning a clear direction.
Medieval Bridge and Parish Church
Clyst St Mary Bridge is considered the oldest surviving medieval bridge in Devon outside the city of Exeter. Several arches are connected by a masonry causeway. The bridge is protected as Scheduled Monument 1020209. This historical highlight thus combines a distinctive structure with its formal designation as a protected monument.
Clyst St Mary’s parish church offers a different architectural and historical focus. It may date from the 13th and 15th centuries. The interior of the Parish Church of St Mary contains three high-quality 19th-century stained-glass windows. The church adds interior details and a possible date to the historical focus, while the bridge is notable for its construction and protected status.
Crealy: Rides and Live Shows
Crealy Theme Park & Resort is located in Clyst St Mary, just a few minutes from Junction 30 of the M5 near Exeter. The park has more than 60 rides and attractions and offers live shows. The combination of convenient access from the M5 and entertainment is relevant when choosing where to go: the junction helps you locate the park on your journey, while the rides and shows determine what to do there. Those weighing cultural history against entertainment will find a clear alternative to the bridge or parish church here.
Westpoint and the Devon County Show
Westpoint in Clyst St Mary is an arena and exhibition venue for exhibitions, concerts, shows and industry events. Its programme changes over time. The Devon County Show is also held at the Westpoint Arena. If the show is the reason for your trip, check the dates and programme for the relevant edition before making plans. At Westpoint, the specific date makes a significant difference: unlike a general search for leisure activities, planning is tied to the particular event and its date.
For travel by bicycle, a cycle path runs from Sandy Gate over a medieval bridge to the edge of Clyst St Mary, then continues to Westpoint’s main entrance. As path conditions and signage may change, check the latest information before setting off.
A natural feature of the village
Rare black poplars can also be found in Clyst St Mary. They complement the historical and event-related themes with a natural aspect, giving you another distinct way to choose what to see in the area.
Discover more destinations: Broadwoodwidger, Tavistock, Plympton, Coffinswell, Woodbury, Colebrooke, Meshaw, Hatherleigh.
For the broader travel overview: Devon.
