Revealing the Beauty of Dartmoor's Widecombe-in-the-Moor
A Quaint Village Amid the TorsAs you mingle with the wild ponies, sheep, and cattle that roam freely across the moors of Dartmoor, you may stumble upon the charming village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor. Nestled amid the granite tors, this village is an idyllic haven for those seeking a peaceful retreat and a taste of the quintessential English countryside. With its picturesque landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant community spirit, Widecombe-in-the-Moor is a must-visit for anyone venturing into the depths of Dartmoor National Park. But beware, dear adventurers, for this quaint village is not without its fair share of mysteries, legends, and perhaps even a few ghosts!A Surprising History: The Church of St. PancrasWidecombe-in-the-Moor may be famed for its annual fair and folk hero, Tom Cobley, but the true heart of this village lies in the Church of St. Pancras. Known as the “Cathedral of the Moor,” this magnificent 14th-century structure boasts an impressive tower that reaches a staggering 120 feet. But it’s not just the picturesque beauty of this church that draws visitors from far and wide; it’s the dark tale of the Great Thunderstorm of 1638 that has seeped into local folklore. Legend has it that a group of men playing cards in the church were struck by lightning, with the Devil himself (some say in the guise of a black dog) claiming their souls. The scorched pews and twisted iron fittings still bear witness to this eerie event, and one can’t help but feel a shiver down the spine when exploring the hallowed halls of St. Pancras.Encounter the Wild and WoollyWhile the village itself may be charming, it’s the surrounding landscapes of Dartmoor that truly steal the show. As you venture across the moor, you’ll find yourself in the company of herds of wild ponies, who graze contentedly amid the tussocky grasses and heather. These hardy creatures have roamed Dartmoor for centuries, and their presence only adds to the wild beauty of the area. If you prefer your animals a little fluffier, you may also come across flocks of sheep, and perhaps even the occasional majestic highland cow. Just remember to keep your distance and respect the wildlife, as these animals are accustomed to a peaceful life on the moor.Step Back in Time: Widecombe’s Traditional CraftsmanshipOnce you’ve had your fill of fresh air and wild ponies, why not take the time to explore Widecombe’s rich history of traditional craftsmanship? The village is home to a number of skilled artisans, who are passionate about preserving the time-honored techniques of their trade. At the Widecombe Glass Workshop, you can watch molten glass being transformed into beautiful, unique creations, while at the nearby Dartmoor Leather Workshop, you can marvel at the intricate detail of handcrafted belts, bags, and wallets. And of course, no visit to Widecombe would be complete without sampling some of the delicious local produce available at the village shops and tearooms, so be sure to indulge in a traditional Devonshire cream tea or a slice of mouthwatering homemade cake.Follow in the Footsteps of Tom Cobley and AllWidecombe-in-the-Moor has long been associated with the traditional English folk song, “Widecombe Fair,” which tells the story of Uncle Tom Cobley and his ill-fated journey to the village fair. Today, the spirit of Tom Cobley and his motley crew lives on in the annual Widecombe Fair, which is held every September and attracts thousands of visitors to the village. Complete with horse shows, sheepdog trials, and a bustling market, the Widecombe Fair is a celebration of rural life and a chance to immerse yourself in the jovial atmosphere of this close-knit community. You may even spot a modern-day Tom Cobley, complete with straw hat and tankard of ale, as you join in the festivities!A Hauntingly Good TimeIf the darker side of Widecombe’s history appeals to you, why not book yourself onto one of the village’s famous ghost walks? Led by local expert and raconteur Geoff Lakeman, these nocturnal tours take you on a journey through the village’s most haunted locations, regaling you with tales of spectral sightings, mysterious happenings, and perhaps even an encounter with the ghost of Tom Cobley himself! With the moon casting eerie shadows across the moor, and the wind howling through the tors, you’ll find yourself captivated by the spine-tingling stories of Widecombe’s ghostly past.Discover the Beauty of Widecombe-in-the-MoorWhether you’re in search of breathtaking landscapes, fascinating history, or simply a slice of traditional Devonshire life, Widecombe-in-the-Moor is the perfect destination for a quintessentially English adventure. So don your walking boots, grab your camera, and prepare to be enchanted by the wild beauty and beguiling tales of Dartmoor’s Widecombe-in-the-Moor. You may never want to leave!
|
|
