Sampford Peverell: historic buildings and the Grand Western Canal

Sampford Peverell combines historic streetscapes with the Grand Western Canal. For planning your trip, you can therefore consider two perspectives: the architectural history of the church, bridge and Old Rectory, and the circular route and boating facilities along the canal. Sampford Peverell Play Park adds another specific activity to the area. If you’re looking for a hotel in Sampford Peverell, you can first weigh up whether historic buildings or activities on the canal are more important for your stay.

Church and historic buildings

St John the Baptist Church was built in the mid-13th century and first consecrated in 1259. The south aisle and porch were built in 1498. The dates distinguish two phases of construction: the church in the 13th century and the later additions at the end of the 15th century. If you’re interested in architecture, this sequence provides a specific chronological reference point.

At the western end of Sampford Peverell, older buildings and St John the Baptist Church shape the streetscape. The Old Rectory in Higher Town dates from the early 16th century. The building formerly served as a rectory and school and is a medieval priest’s house. Thus, alongside church architecture, the village’s historic themes include the buildings’ former uses as a rectory and school.

The Methodist chapel in Sampford Peverell is the oldest Methodist chapel in Devon and is still regularly used for worship. Sampford Peverell Bridge is a Grade II listed road bridge over the Grand Western Canal, dating from around 1814. Places of worship, buildings’ former uses and a road bridge therefore offer distinct historical perspectives.

Grand Western Canal: circular route and boats

The Grand Western Canal Circular follows a flat, well-surfaced towpath along the Grand Western Canal, as well as quiet country roads. The route also takes in sections of National Cycle Network Route 3 through Halberton and Sampford Peverell. The surface and route are two distinct points of reference: the surface description applies to the towpath, while the places mentioned and Route 3 help you understand the route.

There is a slipway in Sampford Peverell for smaller trailered boats. Check local conditions before launching. There is also a two-level landing stage near Holbrook Bridge. Its upper level is at towpath height and is intended for motorboats; the lower level is at a suitable height for canoes, kayaks and paddleboards. The slipway is for smaller trailered boats, while the landing stage’s levels are designed for different types of boats.

Sampford Peverell Play Park has wooden play equipment: balance beams, a climbing frame, slides, swings, a rope bridge, a zip line and a playhouse. Together with the historic buildings and canal route, this gives your stay another distinct focus.

Discover more destinations: Dartmouth, Dalwood, Broadwoodwidger, Harberton, Exebridge, Meshaw, Upottery, Lydford.

For the wider travel guide: Devon.