Car Hire Ashburton

Ashburton, a charming market town nestled on the southern edge of Dartmoor National Park, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With a population of around 4,000, this quaint Devon town offers visitors a delightful blend of historical architecture, independent shops, and stunning natural surroundings. Ashburton’s easily reachable via the A38 Devon Expressway, which links it up nicely with like Exeter and Plymouth.

Weather-wise, Ashburton’s got that classic Southwest England vibe going on – think mild summers and winters that won’t freeze your socks off. That said, it’s always a good shout to pack a few layers and some waterproofs. You never know when the Devon skies might decide to give you a surprise shower! If you’re wondering when to visit, late spring to early autumn (May to September) is your best bet.

Attractions In Ashburton

Now, let’s dive into the good stuff – the attractions that make Ashburton tick:

Pennywell Farm

If you’re after a proper day out that’ll put a smile on everyone’s face, Pennywell Farm is your ticket. Just a stone’s throw from Ashburton, this place is an absolute hit with families. Picture this: you’re cuddling up to adorable miniature pigs, bottle-feeding lambs that are soft as clouds, and getting stuck into all sorts of fun activities throughout the day. It’s like a petting zoo on steroids, but in the best way possible. The farm’s open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM (please be aware that working hours might change), so you’ve got plenty of time to soak it all in. And hey, the folks on Google can’t stop raving about it – seems like everyone leaves with a grin on their face and a story to tell. While you’re in the area, why not make a day of it and swing by Buckfastleigh? It’s right next door and has its own bag of tricks to show off.

Hackney Marshes Local Nature Reserve

Now, if you’re the type who likes to swap the hustle and bustle for a bit of peace and quiet, Hackney Marshes Local Nature Reserve is your jam. Tucked away at 11 Maple Cl, this place is a proper hidden gem. It’s the kind of spot where you can lose yourself for hours, wandering along tranquil trails and keeping an eye out for local critters going about their day. Folks who’ve been there rave about how unspoiled it all is – it’s like stepping into a little pocket of wilderness right on Ashburton’s doorstep. There are no set opening hours, so you can pretty much rock up whenever the mood strikes. Just remember to bring your walking shoes and a sense of adventure! And if you’re up for more exploring after, Newton Abbot isn’t far off, offering a nice contrast with its bustling town vibes.

Decoy Country Park

Fancy stretching your legs a bit further? Decoy Country Park is the ticket. It’s a bit of a drive, but trust me, it’s worth it. This place is like nature’s playground – you’ve got a beautiful lake that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, woodland walks that’ll make you feel like you’re in a fairy tale, and enough recreational facilities to keep the whole family entertained for hours. Pack a picnic and make a day of it – you won’t regret it. The reviews on Google are glowing, with visitors praising everything from the well-maintained paths to the abundance of wildlife. It’s open all year round, so you can get your nature fix whenever the urge strikes. After a day at the park, you might want to head over to Totnes for a bit of historical exploration.

Babbacombe Model Village

For something a bit different, head over to Babbacombe Model Village. It’s like someone took all of England, shrunk it down, and crammed it into one place – and the result is pretty darn cool. You’ll find hundreds of miniature scenes that bring English history and culture to life in the most adorable way possible. It’s the kind of place that’ll have both kids and adults pointing and exclaiming, “Look at that!” every few seconds. The attention to detail is mind-blowing, and according to the good folks on Google, it’s an absolute must-visit. They’re open from 10 AM to 5 PM most days, but it’s worth checking their website for seasonal variations. After your miniature adventure, why not explore the full-sized beauty of South Brent?

Courtenay Park

Right in the heart of Ashburton, you’ll find Courtenay Park – a little slice of green heaven at 19 Courtenay Park. It’s the perfect spot to catch your breath after a busy day of exploring. Bring a book, pack a small picnic, or just find a comfy spot to people-watch. It’s a hit with locals and visitors alike, with Google reviews praising its well-maintained gardens and peaceful atmosphere. There’s no official closing time, so you can enjoy this urban oasis whenever you fancy a bit of downtime. Its central location makes it an ideal starting point for those planning to venture into the rugged beauty of Dartmoor National Park.

National Trust – Compton Castle

History buffs, this one’s for you! Compton Castle is like stepping into a time machine set to the 14th century. This fortified manor house, managed by the National Trust, is a proper medieval fortress that’ll have you half-expecting to see knights wandering around. It’s got towers, winding staircases, and even a portcullis – how cool is that? Visitors on Google rave about the knowledgeable guides and the castle’s well-preserved state. They’re usually open from 11 AM to 5 PM, but it’s worth checking the National Trust website for exact dates as they’re not open every day. After your castle adventure, you might want to explore the charming town of Ivybridge, which is just a short drive away.

Becky Falls Ancient Woodland Park

If you’re up for a proper outdoor adventure, Becky Falls Ancient Woodland Park is an absolute must. This place is like Mother Nature’s playground – we’re talking stunning waterfalls, rugged woodland trails, and enough wildlife to keep David Attenborough busy for weeks. You can spend hours here, scrambling over rocks, crossing wooden bridges, and just soaking in the raw beauty of it all. The main falls are a sight to behold, especially after a bit of rain when they’re really thundering down. Visitors on Google can’t stop raving about the place, with many saying it’s one of the highlights of their Devon trip. They’re usually open from 10 AM to 5 PM, but it’s worth checking their website as times can vary with the seasons.

Stover Country Park

Now, if you’re after a gentler outdoor experience, Stover Country Park is your go-to. This place is a whopping 114 acres of pure tranquillity – we’re talking a serene lake, wheelchair-friendly paths, and more birds than you can shake a pair of binoculars at. It’s the kind of place where you can while away an entire day without even realising it. Pack a picnic, bring your camera (or just your phone), and prepare for some serious relaxation. The visitor centre is a great shout, too, with loads of info about the local wildlife. Google reviewers love the peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained trails. The park’s open all year round, so you can get your nature fix whenever the mood strikes.

Canonteign Falls

For a jaw-dropping natural spectacle, you’ve got to check out Canonteign Falls. These beauties are among the highest waterfalls in England, and let me tell you, they’re a sight to behold. Set in a Victorian-era park, it’s like stepping into a fairy tale. You can climb up to various viewpoints (be prepared for a bit of a workout!), each offering a different perspective on the falls. The gardens around the falls are pretty spectacular too, with exotic plants and hidden nooks to explore. Visitors on Google rave about the stunning views and peaceful atmosphere. They’re typically open from 10 AM to 5 PM, but it’s best to check their website for current times and any seasonal closures.

Ashburton Antiques Trail

Last but not least, for those who love a bit of treasure hunting, the Ashburton Antiques Trail is an absolute treat. This self-guided tour takes you through the town’s numerous antique shops and dealers, each one a potential goldmine of unique finds. It’s like a real-life time capsule, with everything from Victorian trinkets to mid-century modern furniture up for grabs. Even if you’re not looking to buy, it’s a fascinating way to spend an afternoon soaking up the town’s history through its objects. The shopkeepers are usually more than happy to chat about their wares, so don’t be shy about asking questions. There’s no set trail or opening hours – just wander the town and pop into any shop that catches your eye. It’s a delightful way to while away a few hours and maybe pick up a unique souvenir or two.

Ashburton’s diverse attractions offer something for everyone, from nature lovers to history enthusiasts. Its proximity to other charming Devon locations like Teignmouth and South Hams makes it an ideal base for exploring the wider region.