Category: Discover
Tavistock Goose Fair – A Historic Event of Fun & Tradition. Tavistock Goose Fair is a much-loved annual event held on the second Wednesday of October. Steeped in history, this vibrant fair dates back to the 12th century and was originally a Michelmas livestock market. Its current date was set in 1752 following the adoption of the Gregorian calendar. One of only three goose fairs in the UK—alongside Nottingham Goose Fair and Michaelmas Goose Fayre in Colyford—Tavistock’s event remains deeply connected to its heritage. The name “Goose Fair” is thought to…
Situated at the very heart of the historic town of Tavistock is the ancient Pannier Market, one of the hidden gems of Tavistock. The Market was granted its Royal Charter in 1105 and has survived without a break for over 900 years.History The town received its Market Charter from Henry I in 1105 and the town prospered from its weekly markets, being the centre of a large farming district. The town’s Market used to be held in Bank Square, now a car park, but in 1860 the Seventh Duke of Bedford…
Learn about the very heart of Tavistock both in it’s geography and history in this series of 9 films produced by Tavistock BID in collaboration with Fatcalf Media. Find out about the heritage of trade, religion, community and the town’s UNESCO World Heritage Status. These 9 Heritage films offer a quick glimpse into the history of 9 locations in Tavistock Town Centre.
Friday 5th December 2025 from 5pm Tavistock’s Dickensian Evening is a magical late-night shopping event that transports you back in time as shop keepers embrace the spirit and dress up in traditional attire. Christmas light switch-on at 5:45pm. The smell of chestnuts cooking on steam engines will waft through the streets bringing excitement to children and adults alike. Shops will be open late, and the town will come alive with entertainment on every corner. The streets are filled with crowds who come to enjoy the old-fashioned traditional Christmas experience. There will…
Tavistock’s famous Charter Market takes place every Friday from 9am-3pm, celebrating over 900 years of the market with local produce, arts, crafts & music on Bedford Square. The Market was granted its Royal Charter by King Henry I in 1105 and the town thrived on this weekly Friday market, serving as a hub for the large farming district surrounding the town. Originally held in Bank Square, the market relocated in 1860 when the Seventh Duke of Bedford diverted the River Tavy and constructed the magnificent Market Hall. As well as the eclectic…
Tavistock’s Heritage Quarter can be found in the Guildhall Complex, next to Bedford Square and the Town Hall. Here you can unlock the secrets to Tavistock’s impressive heritage and learn about our place in the Cornwall & West Devon Mining Landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tavistock’s Heritage Quarter 2024 Opening Hours Tavistock Guildhall and Information Centre open Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 4pm. Tavistock Museum open Tuesday – Saturday 11am–3pm, from March 30th to November 1st 2024. Museum of Policing in Devon & Cornwall Mini Museum open every Friday 11am until…
Tavistock welcomes not only its human inhabitants but also their four-legged friends with open arms! Renowned for its historic charm and vibrant atmosphere, Tavistock has cultivated a reputation as a dog-friendly haven, making it an ideal destination for those who wish to explore the beauty of Devon in the company of their beloved pets. One of the defining features that sets Tavistock apart as a dog-friendly town is its extensive network of walking paths and trails. The town is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including Dartmoor National Park, which offers an abundance of scenic routes…
The famous Cream Tea – a form of afternoon tea light meal consisting of tea taken with scones, clotted cream and jam – is just what Devon is known for. But where did it originate? Tavistock! Ancient manuscripts show that the monks of Tavistock’s Benedictine Abbey were indeed the people who created the Cream Tea. The Abbey, established in the 10th Century, was plundered and badly damaged by Vikings in 997AD. Restoration of the Abbey was undertaken by Ordulf, Earl of Devon, who rewarded his workers with bread, clotted cream and…
1. The Pannier Market Established by Charter in 1105, a market has been held continuously in Tavistock for over 900 years. The Pannier Market was built when the Duke of Bedford remodelled the town centre, financed by the mid-19th century mining boom. Today it’s home to themed markets five days a week, offering everything from unusual gifts and crafts to hammers and nails – and its pedestrian perimeter is filled with cafés and shops. 2.Guildhall Gateway Centre A visit to this UNESCO ‘gateway’ centre for the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape…
Described as a gem in the heart of Tavistock, the Guildhall Heritage Centre and visitor attraction is a must-see! * The Visitor Information Centre is open Tues-Sat 10am-4pm. * Summer opening includes every Monday until, and including, 19th August. * Activities for Children run every Wednesday throughout summer in the Courtroom A ‘gateway’ centre for information about the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape World Heritage Site (WHS), the Guildhall also tells the story of Tavistock’s mining past and of the building itself as one of England’s first purpose-built combined…
