Whitchurch: Moorland, Walks and History

Whitchurch can be understood from two perspectives: Whitchurch Down, with its Common Land status and SSSI designation, and the village’s history, which ranges from a guided village walk to medieval crosses and historic buildings. This can help you decide whether nature, history or both should be the focus of your trip.

Whitchurch Down and its moors

Whitchurch Down is registered as Common Land. An area on the north side of the Down is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The SSSI designation for Whitchurch Down is based exclusively on its outstanding moors. The Whitchurch Down SSSI includes herb-rich valley mires and various invertebrates, including some rare species. The nature description therefore covers both a specific habitat and the groups of animals found there.

Rights of way and car parks at Whitchurch Down are managed and maintained by Tavistock Town Council. If you plan to use a particular path or car park, check the Council’s latest information. This lets you take account of who is responsible for these practical aspects, as well as the landscape.

Guided village walk and season

A local programme of guided walks includes a tour of Whitchurch village. It covers the village’s history, which dates back to Norman times. The tour is part of a programme of 26 local walks that takes place every weekend from April to October each year. The offering may vary by season; check the dates if you are planning to take the walk during a specific travel period.

The village walk has a different focus from exploring individual historic buildings or crosses: it centres on the history of the village over a long period. This can help you decide whether you would prefer an overview of its history or to explore individual landmarks with a specific date and theme.

Crosses, church and historic buildings

Pixies’ Cross is one of the best-preserved medieval wayside crosses on Dartmoor. Green Lane Cross is associated with medieval routes that ran across Dartmoor to and from Tavistock. St Andrew’s Parish Church in Whitchurch is listed as Grade I.

The history of the buildings also reflects different periods. Whitchurch House is a former rectory, remodelled and extended in the early 19th century, based on an earlier 18th-century building. The Pimple on Whitchurch Down is a reservoir entrance building designed in 1914 by Sir Edwin Lutyens for the Duke of Bedford. Comparing these landmarks, Pixies’ Cross represents a medieval wayside cross, while Whitchurch House and The Pimple each reflect a later building history: one through remodelling and extension, the other through its design in 1914.

Discover more destinations: Payhembury, Yarcombe, Holbeton, Hemyock, Appledore, Woolfardisworthy, Burrington, Chapelton.

For the main travel overview: Devon.