Introduction to Ashburton
Ashburton is a charming market town in Devon, England, nestled at the edge of Dartmoor National Park. With its stone lanes, timber framed houses, and a river weaving through the heart of town, the place feels timeless yet refreshingly current. It serves as a perfect starting point for exploring pastoral Devon and the rugged landscapes just beyond. In Ashburton you can slow down, breathe the fresh air, and experience a community that takes pride in its craft and café culture.
Hotel prices in Ashburton
Choose your dates and compare live room prices at 11 hotels.
Top Rated
Mill End Hotel
Boringdon Hall Hotel and Spa
Gidleigh Park- A Relais & Chateaux Hotel
Dartmoor Lodge
Two Bridges Hotel
Ring O Bells
Elfordleigh Hotel
The Anchor Inn
Burrator Inn
the Dartmoor bnb
The Moorland Hotel
Best Prices
The Moorland Hotel
the Dartmoor bnb
Burrator Inn
The Anchor Inn
Ring O Bells
Elfordleigh Hotel
Two Bridges Hotel
Dartmoor Lodge
Mill End Hotel
Boringdon Hall Hotel and Spa
Gidleigh Park- A Relais & Chateaux Hotel
History and Architecture
The town’s history is visible in every doorway. The parish church of St Lawrence stands as a quiet sentinel with intricate stonework, while the former Town Hall anchors the marketplace with its sturdy facade. The local museum offers glimpses into agricultural life, trade routes, and the stories of families who have lived here for generations. A short stroll reveals cottages with hanging baskets and lanes that twist like a map of the town’s past.
Markets and Shopping
Ashburton’s market is the living heartbeat of the town’s social scene. Weekly markets and rotating events present a wide range of goods, from fresh fruit and local cheeses to crafts. Independent shops and cafés provide a relaxed pause and meaningful shopping experiences. Talking with local producers is a great way to sample Devon’s pride and charm.
Nature and Dartmoor
The surrounding Dartmoor National Park is a magnet for nature lovers. Even short strolls reward visitors with expansive views, grazing ponies, and dramatic skies. Sunrise over the moor offers golden hues and memorable photo opportunities. Whether you’re a casual walker, a photographer, or a family seeking a picnic, the landscapes around Ashburton invite slow exploration and frequent returns.
Food, Drink, and Where to Stay
Dining in Ashburton is simple and sincere, with local pubs welcoming travelers by the fireside. Devon cream tea remains a quintessential indulgence, featuring scones with clotted cream and jam. Cafés and bakeries provide light bites and a place to absorb the town’s peaceful tempo. Accommodation ranges from pub-with-rooms to intimate boutique inns, usually with warm hosts who can point you to hidden corners of the countryside.
Getting There and Where to Stay
The town is well connected by road and public transport. From Exeter or Newton Abbot, you can reach Ashburton by train or bus, or drive via the A38. Once you are here, staying in a pub with rooms or a small boutique inn offers an authentic sense of place and often personalized local tips for exploring nearby sights.
One Day Itinerary
Begin with a relaxed breakfast, then a stroll around the market square to meet makers and farmers. Visit St Lawrence Church and wander through the old town. For lunch, choose a riverside café or a traditional pub. In the afternoon, set out for a gentle Dartmoor loop or a riverside walk, returning in time for a Devon cream tea to finish the day. If time allows, extend your trip to nearby towns like Buckfast or Tavistock to deepen your Devon experience.
Why Ashburton
For travelers seeking a calm rural escape that still feels connected, Ashburton offers a rewarding blend of history, nature, and warm hospitality. It is a place to slow down, observe, and savor the everyday details that make rural England so appealing. Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, Ashburton invites you to pause, explore, and return.