Meshaw: Walking Routes and History

When planning a stay in Meshaw, you can choose between walking routes, the landscape of Meshaw Moor nature reserve south of the village, and church history as different points of focus. You can decide whether you want your trip to be shaped more by a specific walking time, a particular view or historical points of interest.

Walking routes with different points of focus

Meshaw Walk 1 is a circular route along roads, about 6.5 miles long and taking approximately two hours. Both figures are estimates, but offer different planning information: the length of the route and the approximate time required. Along the way, there are views and opportunities to observe wildflowers, butterflies and birds. The route therefore combines a longer walking-time estimate with several specific ways to take in the surroundings.

The other two Meshaw Walks focus on different views. Walk 2 offers views towards Dartmoor; Walk 3 leads to a viewpoint overlooking the village. If you choose a walk based on its destination view, the two are clearly distinct: one offers a view towards Dartmoor, the other a view of Meshaw.

Meshaw Moor and the route around the nature reserve

Meshaw Moor nature reserve lies one mile south of Meshaw. Its landscape comprises thirteen fields of wildflower-rich Culm grassland. A marked path runs around the nature reserve and takes about an hour to walk. This estimated time differs from the approximately two hours for Meshaw Walk 1; both figures are estimates and can be used when planning your day. The moorland and the path around it offer a distinct focus for a walk. Ground conditions can change, so it is advisable to check current path conditions before setting out. Access details for the nature reserve may also vary; check the latest information.

Local and church history

In the Domesday Book of 1086, Meshaw is recorded under the name Mauessart. The earliest recorded Christian worship at St John the Baptist Meshaw dates to 1263; the parish register began in 1580. The church was rebuilt in 1838. In chronological order, these are the village’s entry, the earliest recorded worship, the start of the register and the rebuilding. The 1086 entry refers to Meshaw under its name at the time; the later dates relate to different aspects of church history.

Monthly services are also useful to know about when planning a visit: at St John, Meshaw, a Holy Communion service takes place on the second Sunday at 11:15 am. On the fourth Sunday of the month, Morning Prayer is held at 11 am. If a service fits your travel plans, check the times in advance, as service details may change.

For comparing walks, there are two approximate time frames: about an hour for the path at the moor and approximately two hours for Meshaw Walk 1. The other two Meshaw Walks differ in the viewpoints described. These specific differences can help you choose a nature or cultural focus for your stay in Meshaw.

Discover more destinations: North Bovey, Cheriton Bishop, Croyde, Broadclyst, Manaton, Ware, Yealmpton, Okehampton

For the wider travel guide: Devon.