Broadwoodwidger: Landscape and History

Broadwoodwidger brings together several themes that may be relevant when planning a stay: the landscape along the River Wolf, the history of St Nicholas Church, archaeological traces and activities at Roadford Lake. If you are looking for a hotel, these highlights can help you decide what kind of trip you want. Village history and landscape are one focus; kayaking and fishing add their own touches by the water.

Landscapes between the valley and distant views

Broadwoodwidger lies on a steep hill above the wooded valley of the River Wolf. The churchyard of St Nicholas Church offers views of Dartmoor. This places two different landscape perspectives side by side: the wooded valley below the village and the longer view from the churchyard. For you as a traveller, these are two different points of reference: the valley setting describes the village’s immediate surroundings, while the churchyard opens up views as far as Dartmoor.

St Nicholas Church and historical traces

The Church of St Nicholas is a Grade I listed building. It was first mentioned in 1257; this date indicates its first recorded mention, not explicitly the year it was built. Archaeological excavations in Broadwoodwidger also uncovered traces of prehistoric activity dating back to 2550 BC. These traces were recorded during construction work on Roadford Reservoir. The archaeological traces therefore date back much further than the church’s first recorded mention; the two dates mark different historical periods. The Broadwoodwidger Local History Group organises talks, outings and visits that are relevant to its aims or the interests of its members.

Activities at Roadford Lake

Single and double kayaks can be hired at Roadford Lake. “Have a go” kayak sessions led by qualified watersports instructors are also available. Brown trout fishing is possible from both the shore and a boat. The distinctions are clear when choosing: for kayaking, you can choose a single or double kayak, or a guided session; for fishing, you can fish from the shore or a boat. The Roadford Lake Activity Centre is located in Broadwoodwidger, Lifton, Devon, PL16 0JL. Roadford Lake has the Roadford Lake Cafe; public toilets are located in the main car park and in the café.

A cycling route with a clearly stated distance

The 21-mile cycling route runs from Bridestowe to Roadford Reservoir and follows quiet roads for most of its length. Its specific features are its distance, named endpoints and predominantly road-based character. This makes it distinct from the individual activities at Roadford Lake: here, the focus is on a cycling route with a stated distance, while there it is on activities such as kayaking or fishing. If you are planning a stay, you can consider the cycling route as a separate option for cyclists.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Kingsbridge, Frithelstock, Woodbury, Holbeton, North Bovey, Chittlehampton, Otterton, South Molton

For the overarching travel guide: Devon.