Colyton village

I visited Colyton today with our walking group and we set off on a 6 mile walk along the river Coly and then up and down various hills with views of the sea and ancient woodlands.  At one point a Peregrine Falcon flew past some horses and landed on a nearby pole watching us.  We arrived back in the town and after lunch went on an hour's guided tour of the village.  

The tour was fascinating as it has such a rich history.  Today the village's population is similar to that of the past as it had a rich trading history, starting in the Middle Ages due to the wool trade. The church of St Andrews which can be seen in the back of the photo dates from Norman times although a church stood on the land from around 700 AD, a Saxon cross dating to the 10th century is present inside along with various monuments in the Pole chapel.  The rare octagonal lantern on top of the church tower indicates the wealth of Colyton at the time for during the 14th century, Colyton was listed as the 4th richest town in Devon according to taxes paid by its merchants. 

The streets were described as having a Saxon layout with views of the Church from all directions along with a wealth of old and listed buildings. For a fuller view of the church see the extra.

We skirted around the outside of the last remaining oak bark tannery in the country which is still in production despite modern competition, and produces leather hides and notably leather belts for a Japanese market. The town also prides itself in its traditional wheelwright who has gained a Royal Warrant and works "By Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen".

A fascinating visit which will benefit from a revisit with a fully charged camera.