The name Morebath refers to the basin known as “moory”, which the Shuttern Brook formed as it flows through the village. The long tradition of sheep farming also shapes the village’s history: for centuries, Morebath remained essentially a sheep-farming community. The course of the brook explains the connection between the village’s name and the landscape; sheep farming is a separate focus of the village’s history.
Old Routes and Public Rights of Way
The history of the roads also offers insight into Morebath’s location and past. The road from Lodfin Farm to Exebridge is a very old route from Wellington to Dulverton. Another route runs through Morebath towards Bury and onward to Devon’s north coast. These two routes trace different directions: one is connected with Wellington and Dulverton, while the other leads from Morebath towards the coast.
There are also several public rights of way in the parish. If you plan to walk there, check the path conditions and access before setting out. This helps distinguish the historical orientation of the old routes from the practical planning of a walk.
St George and Other Buildings
The building history of St George’s Church includes different dates: the tower may date from the 13th century, while the north aisle dates from the 15th century. In the north aisle, the church has a late-medieval, boarded wagon roof with moulded ribs and carved foliage bosses. It is important to distinguish between the dates: the tower may date from the 13th century, while the north aisle is assigned to the 15th century.
A much more recent building is Morebath Manor: this listed country house is Grade II and was built in 1892–1894. The toll house provides a different architectural feature. It has an octagonal plan and stands at the centre of a crossroads. Together with the various parts of St George’s, these buildings offer several specific points of reference for exploring Morebath’s architectural history—from the possibly medieval tower to the late-19th-century country house.
Events and Transport
A yoga class is held at Morebath Village Hall on the first and third Monday of each month, from 10:15 to 12:00. Participants of all abilities and beginners are welcome. The first yoga class is free for anyone new to the class. If you plan to attend, check the date before travelling.
Dartline bus route 398 runs through Morebath and connects Tiverton, Bampton, Dulverton and Minehead. Morebath can also use a community Ring-and-Ride bus service; the telephone number is 01884 242099. Check the current timetable for your travel dates. For Ring-and-Ride, confirm contact details and availability before travelling.
Discover more destinations: West Buckland, Lifton, Beer, Budleigh Salterton, Sampford Peverell, Stoke Rivers, Dunkeswell, Stoke Canon.
For the broader travel overview: Devon.
