Along Exbourne Footpath 1, a tree-lined river and opportunities for wildlife watching are among the landscape’s special features. At the same time, Exbourne’s building history stretches back several centuries. Those planning a trip here can explore nature and local history as distinct points of interest.
Riverside Walks and Landscape
For much of its length, Exbourne Footpath 1 runs alongside a tree-lined river. Several gates provide access to the riverbank. Along the path, there are opportunities to spot kingfishers, herons and water voles; sightings are not guaranteed, however. Check current access conditions before your walk.
There are six footpaths in Exbourne parish that can be used for walks through the countryside. Here, too, it is advisable to check current access conditions in advance. In the wider landscape, Exbourne and Jacobstowe lie in a largely unspoilt, agriculture-based area north of Okehampton and close to Dartmoor. This description refers to the surroundings of both villages.
Church Architecture and Historic Buildings
St. Mary's Parish Church in Exbourne has several building phases: parts date from the early 14th century, alterations were made in the 15th century, and an extension was added in the early 16th century. Its features include a tower, a porch and a south aisle made of dressed granite beneath a slate roof with its ridge running lengthwise. The church’s development can thus be understood through its different periods and architectural features.
The history of the square-framed rood screen also spans several phases. Its original construction is dated to around 1420. The rood screen was removed in 1835 and replaced after restoration in 1889; substantial parts of the original Perpendicular tracery and part of the frieze have survived. St. Mary the Blessed Virgin Parish Church in Exbourne welcomes visitors. Check the current visiting arrangements before your visit.
Other buildings offer insight into the local architectural history. Town Farm and Town Farm Cottage were originally a single 17th-century house. Fir House is a listed former farmhouse dating from around 1500; it was altered in the 17th century and extended in the 19th century. Surviving 17th-century interior features include a plank-and-muntin partition and a moulded beam ceiling.
Traces of Local History and Community Events
Exbourne appears to have existed since at least Saxon times. There are seven sites indicating prehistoric settlement within the boundaries of today’s parish. The Domesday Book describes Exbourne as one of several manors held by Roger de Molis under Baldwin the Sherriff, Baron of Okehampton and the king’s immediate tenant. These historical references therefore span early traces of settlement through to an entry in the Domesday Book.
Regular events are also part of local life. Since January 2023, Messy Church, a family event, has been held at St. Mary the Blessed Virgin in collaboration with Exbourne Primary School on the third Thursday of each month from 3:30 to 5 pm. If you plan to attend, check the current schedule in advance. The Exbourne Local History Group meets regularly at Exbourne Village Hall on the third Tuesday of each month at 7:30 pm. As recurring events can change, it is also advisable to check the latest details.
The Burrow is an underground community shop, café and post office. Information about its services may change; check the latest details before visiting if needed. Together with the footpaths, historic buildings and community events, these offer different points of interest to help you plan a stay in Exbourne.
Discover more destinations: Bishop's Tawton, Kingsteignton, Holne, Colebrooke, Stoke Gabriel, Budleigh Salterton, Wick, Pennymoor
For the wider travel guide: Devon.
