Dunkeswell offers two distinctive themes: the medieval remains of the abbey and the history of aviation at the airfield. A rare Second World War complex around the control tower has been preserved there and is still used for flying. There are also flying experiences and, in the wider area, a riding route. If you are looking for a hotel in Dunkeswell, you can first decide whether history, aviation or both are the deciding factors.
Abbey and church: two periods in time
Dunkeswell Abbey is a protected monument. The site includes standing and buried remains of a Cistercian abbey that was in use from 1201 to 1539, as well as associated fishponds. The monument therefore encompasses different traces: alongside the visible remains, there are also features preserved underground and ponds connected with the abbey.
A later period is represented by the Church of Holy Trinity, built in 1842 on the site of the former abbey church of Dunkeswell Abbey. The church sanctuary contains medieval glazed floor tiles from the former abbey church. Their origin provides a tangible link to the earlier church building and adds a medieval furnishing detail to the history of the later church.
The abbey ruins are visible from a public footpath. When viewing the remains, please respect private property and local residents.
Airfield history in the Blackdown Hills
Dunkeswell Aerodrome is located in the heart of the Blackdown Hills. The group of buildings around the control tower is part of a rare, well-preserved Second World War airfield complex that is still used for flying. This aviation hub therefore brings together a surviving historic layout and ongoing flying operations.
The Operations Block was the nerve centre of US Navy operations in the Bay of Biscay area. The building is also an unusually well-preserved example of a wartime operations building. The United States Navy Fleet Air Wing Seven – WW2 monument is located at the Dunkeswell Memorial Museum. As its location may change in the future, check whether it is still there before making a special trip to see it.
Flying experiences and views of the activity
Devon & Somerset Flight Training offers flying lessons at Dunkeswell's general aviation airfield. The options also include experience flights, during which visitors can take the controls themselves on a trial flight. This highlights two different ways to get involved in aviation: learning in an aircraft and experiencing the controls firsthand during a trial flight.
The Aviator Cafe has a terrace from which visitors can watch activity at Dunkeswell Aerodrome. As operating arrangements may change, check the latest information about the cafe before your visit. Skydiving normally takes place from Wednesday through Sunday inclusive, as well as on public holidays; operations may change and are weather-dependent. If this activity is important to your plans, check that it is scheduled for your chosen date. Wingwalking in Devon also starts at Dunkeswell Aerodrome. This activity is seasonal and weather-dependent.
Riding in the surrounding area
Another option in the surrounding area is the “Dunkeswell and Sheldon” route, which includes sections on bridleways and opportunities to canter. For travellers interested in riding, it adds a dedicated route to the area's historical and aviation themes.
Discover more destinations: Axminster, Black Torrington, Broadclyst, Luppitt, Dartmouth, Ashwater, Lapford, Chudleigh
For the broader travel overview: Devon.
