North Huish has two distinct sides: historic structures at churches, bridges and a limekiln, as well as paths through woodlands along the River Avon. Anyone wishing to combine culture and walking during a stay can focus on the architectural history or on outdoor paths, depending on their interests. The individual structures differ both in their function and in their dates.

Churches and architectural history

St Mary's Church is largely a building from the early 14th century. The south aisle and the south porch date from the 15th century. Thus, one building contains a mainly early structure and two later-dated southern parts. Those comparing church architecture will find two clearly identifiable periods here.

The lychgate lies southeast of the Church of St Mary. It probably dates from the late 17th or early 18th century; the reused churchyard cross is probably medieval. The two dates refer to different elements: the age of the cross should not be equated with the date of the lychgate.

Church House is now a private home. It probably dates from the early 17th century, but may have origins in the 16th century. The floor plan comprises two rooms; a central entrance leads to a cross-passage. The probable construction date and possible earlier origins remain distinct claims.

Bridges and limekiln

Devils Backbone Bridge, also known as Old Bridge, is a road bridge over the River Avon. It was originally used as a packhorse bridge and probably dates from the 17th century. The alternative name is useful when comparing location details or descriptions: both names refer to the same bridge.

Oakenham Bridge carries a path over the River Avon. It dates from the early 19th century and is built of rubble slate; the arch is made of dressed slate. The bridge was probably intended to provide access to the limekilns immediately to the southwest, in the parish of North Huish. Here, the route and a possible historic function come together, although this connection remains probable.

The limekiln in North Huish also dates from the early 19th century and is built into a slope. It has a large pointed-arch opening and a firing opening at the rear. Its hillside location and openings give the limekiln a distinctive architectural form.

Paths along the River Avon

Footpath 6 passes through woodlands along the River Avon. The path therefore takes in both woodland and the river as a landscape feature. If you are planning a walk as part of your stay, you can use this path as a specific starting point for your plans.

As path conditions can change, check the current condition of the route you choose before setting out.

Discover more destinations: Seaton, Clyst Saint Mary, Cheriton Bishop, Drewsteignton, Bere Alston, Ashwater, Buckland Brewer, Devonport

For the regional travel overview: Devon.