Car Hire Chulmleigh

Nestled in the rolling hills of mid-Devon, Chulmleigh is one of those places that feels like a well-kept secret. It’s a small town with a population of just over 1,000, but don’t let its size fool you – there’s plenty to see and do here. Chulmleigh has a rich history dating back to Saxon times, and you can still see traces of its past in the beautiful old buildings that line the streets.

If you’re driving, you’ll find Chulmleigh tucked away off the A377 between Exeter and Barnstaple. The weather here is typical Devon – generally mild, but it can be a bit unpredictable. My advice? Bring layers and maybe a waterproof jacket, just in case. As for when to visit, Chulmleigh is lovely year-round, but I think it really comes into its own in late spring and summer when the surrounding countryside is in full bloom.

Attractions In Chulmleigh

Chulmleigh is a quaint town offering a mix of heritage and countryside exploration.

War Horse Valley Country Farm Park

Let’s start with the War Horse Valley Country Farm Park. This place is a real treat, especially if you’re a fan of the book or film “War Horse”. It’s located just outside Chulmleigh and gives you a glimpse into rural life during World War I. You can meet farm animals, explore old farm buildings, and even see some vintage machinery. Kids love it here, and honestly, adults do too. It’s a hands-on way to learn about history that beats any textbook. Visitors from South Molton often make a day trip here.

Eggesford Forest

Next up is Eggesford Forest. This is a fantastic spot if you love the outdoors. It’s part of the old Eggesford Estate and covers a pretty big area. There are walking trails for all abilities, and the scenery is just beautiful. In spring, parts of the forest floor are carpeted with bluebells – it’s quite a sight. Bring a picnic and make a day of it. Oh, and if you’re into mountain biking, there are some great trails here too. It’s a favourite weekend getaway for folks from Crediton.

Heywood Wood

Heywood Wood is another lovely spot for a walk. It’s a bit smaller and quieter than Eggesford Forest, which makes it perfect if you’re after some peace and tranquillity. The wood is managed by the Woodland Trust, and they’ve done a great job of maintaining the paths and encouraging wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer – they’re shy, but you might get lucky and spot one. Nature enthusiasts from Witheridge often come here for birdwatching.

Ashcombe Community Garden

The Ashcombe Community Garden is a real labour of love. It’s run by local volunteers and it’s a great example of what a community can achieve when they work together. The garden is open to everyone, and it’s a lovely spot to relax and enjoy some greenery. They often have events and workshops too, so it’s worth checking if anything’s on when you visit.

Shobrooke Park

A bit further afield, but still worth a visit, is Shobrooke Park. It’s a beautiful country park with lakes, woodland, and open grassland. The park has a fascinating history – it was once part of a grand estate, and you can still see remnants of this past in the landscape. It’s a great place for a walk or a picnic, and if you’re into fishing, you can even cast a line in one of the lakes. It’s a popular day out for families from Okehampton.

Lapford Mill

Lapford Mill is a bit of a hidden gem. It’s an old water mill that’s been lovingly restored. While it’s not always open to the public, they do sometimes run open days where you can see the mill in action. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the area’s industrial heritage. History buffs from Tiverton often make the trip to see it.

Lowen Barn

Lowen Barn is a local arts and crafts centre that’s worth checking out. They showcase work by local artists and craftspeople and often run workshops where you can try your hand at various crafts. It’s a great place to pick up a unique souvenir of your visit to Devon. If you fancy a trip to the coast, Bideford isn’t too far

Woolley Animals Alpaca Walking & Farm Park

Now, if you want a truly unique experience, head to Woolley Animals Alpaca Walking & Farm Park. Yes, you read that right – you can go for a walk with alpacas! It’s as fun as it sounds and makes for some great photos. The farm also has other animals you can meet and feed. It’s a hit with families, but honestly, who doesn’t love alpacas?

Halsdon Nature Reserve

For nature lovers, Halsdon Nature Reserve is a must-visit. It’s run by the Devon Wildlife Trust and is home to a diverse range of plants and animals. The reserve follows the River Torridge, and there are some lovely walks along the riverbank. If you’re lucky, you might spot otters or kingfishers.

Beaford

Finally, don’t miss Beaford. It’s a small village, but it’s home to Beaford Arts, an organisation that puts on all sorts of cultural events throughout the year. They also manage the Beaford Archive, a fascinating collection of photographs documenting rural life in Devon over the past century.

Chulmleigh is a great base for exploring this part of Devon, with easy access to places like Hatherleigh and Barnstaple. But honestly? Once you’ve experienced the charm of Chulmleigh and its surroundings, you might not want to leave!