Dunkeswell: Abbey History and Aviation

For a trip to Dunkeswell, two main themes stand out: the Cistercian abbey in the surrounding area and the history of the airfield. While the abbey was in use from 1201 to 1539, the airfield complex dating from the Second World War remains connected with flying. Today, flight training, experience flights and other activities at the Aerodrome add to the historical theme. When planning your overnight stay, you can therefore first decide whether monastic and church history or aviation will shape your visit.

Abbey, Church and Historical Traces

Dunkeswell Abbey is a protected monument. It comprises standing remains and remains preserved underground of a Cistercian abbey that was in use from 1201 to 1539, as well as associated fishponds. The ruins are visible from a public footpath; stay on the path and respect private property and local residents.

The Church of Holy Trinity offers another layer of history: it was built in 1842 on the site of the former abbey church of Dunkeswell Abbey. Its sanctuary contains medieval glazed floor tiles from the former abbey church. The church’s construction date and the medieval origin of the tiles point to different periods in local church history.

Airfield History and Aviation Today

Dunkeswell Aerodrome lies in the heart of the Blackdown Hills. The group of buildings around the control tower forms part of a rare, well-preserved airfield complex from the Second World War that is still used for flying. The Operations Block was the nerve centre of US Navy operations in the Bay of Biscay area. It is also an unusually well-preserved example of a wartime operations building. The history of the complex and the building’s specific function at the time can therefore be considered side by side.

Modern aviation is a distinct focus at the airfield. Devon & Somerset Flight Training offers flight training and experience flights there. On a trial flight, visitors can take the controls themselves. The activities have different emphases: flight training focuses on learning to fly, while an experience flight offers the chance to take the controls on a trial flight.

Skydiving usually takes place from Wednesday through Sunday inclusive, as well as on public holidays. This schedule may change and is weather-dependent; check the current schedule if you are planning your stay around it. Wingwalking in Devon departs from Dunkeswell Aerodrome and is seasonal and weather-dependent. For this activity too, it is advisable to check the provider’s latest information before making plans.

The Aviator Cafe has a terrace from which visitors can watch activity at Dunkeswell Aerodrome. As operating arrangements may change, check the café’s latest information before visiting. The United States Navy Fleet Air Wing Seven - WW2 monument is located at the Dunkeswell Memorial Museum; check the current location details when planning your visit.

For riders, the “Dunkeswell and Sheldon” route is another option in the area: it includes sections on bridleways and opportunities for a canter. When looking for hotels for a stay in Dunkeswell, you can use the purpose of your trip as a starting point: are you primarily interested in the abbey and church, or would you rather focus on airfield history and aviation? For seasonal or weather-dependent activities, check the specific information before arranging your dates around them.

Discover more destinations: Yelverton, Ashburton, Chagford, Totnes, Broadwoodwidger, Exeter, Kingsbridge, Dawlish

For the broader travel overview: Devon.