Attractions and Places To See around Ashreigney - Top 12
Best attractions and places to see around Ashreigney include a blend of historical landmarks and natural landscapes. This Devon village is situated on a high Culm ridge between the Taw and Torridge rivers, characterized by rural farmland and wooded valleys. The area offers insights into medieval history and opportunities for exploring diverse woodlands and river settings.
Best attractions and places to see around Ashreigney
- The most popular attractions is Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey, a historical site that consists of the remains of an early medieval motte and bailey castle. Overlooking the Taw Valley, the circular motte is about 8 meters high and almost 50 meters in diameter.
- Another must-see spot is Eggesford Forest, a diverse woodland. Visitors can explore a network of paths and observe wildlife, wildflowers, and fungi throughout the year.
- Visitors also love All Saints Church, Eggesford, a historical religious building. Parts of this remote church date to the 15th century, with much of it restored in 1867.
- Ashreigney is known for historical sites, natural reserves, and forests. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient castles to tranquil woodlands.
- The attractions around Ashreigney are appreciated by the komoot community, with 28 upvotes and 22 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey
Highlight • Historical Site
Heywood CastleAt Heywood the circular motte is about 8 metres high and almost 50 metres in diameter, surrounded by a rock-cut ditch 4 metres wide and 2 metres deep. Around the top of the motte is a bank, up to 4 metres high in places. The crescent shaped bailey which lies to the north-east of the motte is 60 metres long and 40 metres wide and bounded on all sides by a bank 2 metres rising to about 4 metres on the eastern side, where there is an entrance with a causeway across the ditch which extends to the outer bank, which surrounds both the motte and bailey. From the bailey to the motte on the north east side there is the possibility of a bridgeway. On the north side of the bailey a more modern entrance has been formed.
devon.gov.uk/historicenvironment/explore-devons-heritage/heywood-castle-eggesford
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Eggesford Forest
Highlight • Forest
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All Saints Church, Eggesford
Highlight • Historical Site
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River Torridge at Halsdon Nature Reserve
Highlight • River
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Yeo Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
The bridge is the meeting place for several footpaths, including the Devonshire Heartland Way. South takes you to North Tawton, whilst paths north take you further into the Mid Devon countryside.
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Tips from the Community
Located at the end of a farm track, Yeo Bridge is a pretty, old stone bridge used only by farm vehicles and hikers. Although there are numerous rivers by the name of Yeo nearby, this bridge actually crosses the River Taw, just to be confusing. The bridge is the meeting place for several footpaths, including the Devonshire Heartland Way. South takes you to North Tawton, whilst paths north take you further into the Mid Devon countryside.
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Really nice reserve with a good selection of walks, the river is spectacular in autumn. There is lots of wildlife to be seen and a well-stocked birding hide.
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Overlooking the TawValley, at the northern end of Heywood Wood, stand the remains of an early medieval motte and bailey castle. Motte and bailey castles are medieval fortifications introduced into Britain by the Normans. This type of castle was made up of an artificial mound, or motte, on which was built a wooden or stone structure known as a keep. Next to this at least one bailey, a fortified embanked enclosure containing additional buildings, would be built. Although many were occupied for only a short period of time, motte and bailey castles continued to be built and occupied from the 11th to the 13th centuries, after which they were superseded by other types of castle. Heywood CastleAt Heywood the circular motte is about 8 metres high and almost 50 metres in diameter, surrounded by a rock-cut ditch 4 metres wide and 2 metres deep. Around the top of the motte is a bank, up to 4 metres high in places. The crescent shaped bailey which lies to the north-east of the motte is 60 metres long and 40 metres wide and bounded on all sides by a bank 2 metres rising to about 4 metres on the eastern side, where there is an entrance with a causeway across the ditch which extends to the outer bank, which surrounds both the motte and bailey. From the bailey to the motte on the north east side there is the possibility of a bridgeway. On the north side of the bailey a more modern entrance has been formed. https://www.devon.gov.uk/historicenvironment/explore-devons-heritage/heywood-castle-eggesford/
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This place is well worth a visit, it is a huge Norman castle mound. No structures are visible (Probably only a wooden keep now long gone) but really worth seeing, it is still quite imposing 1000 years on. "At Heywood the circular motte is about 8 metres high and almost 50 metres in diameter, surrounded by a rock-cut ditch 4 metres wide and 2 metres deep. Around the top of the motte is a bank, up to 4 metres high in places. The crescent shaped bailey which lies to the north-east of the motte is 60 metres long and 40 metres wide and bounded on all sides by a bank 2 metres rising to about 4 metres on the eastern side, where there is an entrance with a causeway across the ditch which extends to the outer bank, which surrounds both the motte and bailey. From the bailey to the motte on the north east side there is the possibility of a bridgeway. On the north side of the bailey a more modern entrance has been formed. The castle at Heywood possibly took the place of an earlier castle some 500 metres to the south in the grounds of Heywood House, on the steep valley side above the River Taw. An alternative theory is that both date to the 1130s and 1140s, and were built during the civil war between Matilda, daughter of Henry I, and his nephew Stephen." https://www.devon.gov.uk/historicenvironment/explore-devons-heritage/heywood-castle-eggesford/
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With a network of paths, this diverse woodland is a lovely place to explore. Keep a look-out for wildlife, wildflowers, and interesting fungi. Visit throughout the year; it's different in every season.
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This remote church has a peaceful atmosphere and is steeped in history. Whilst parts of the church date to the 15th century, much of it was restored and rebuilt in 1867. Inside the church, there are two 17th century monuments to the Chichester family and a large 18th century monument to William Fellowes in Italian marble.
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Halsdon Nature Reserve is a serene woodland set around the River Torridge. You can enjoy some great riverside, meadow and woodland walking here. Furthermore, it's a superb place to spot otters, kingfishers, fungi and bluebells.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Ashreigney?
Ashreigney and its surroundings are rich in history. You can explore the remains of an early medieval fortification at Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey, which dates from the 11th to 13th centuries and overlooks the Taw Valley. Another significant historical religious building is All Saints Church, Eggesford, with parts dating back to the 15th century and notable 17th and 18th-century monuments. Additionally, the village's St. James Church, from the 13th century, is known for its architecture and stained-glass windows, and the Ashreigney War Memorial commemorates local WWI soldiers.
Are there natural attractions or reserves for wildlife viewing?
Yes, the area offers several natural escapes. River Torridge at Halsdon Nature Reserve is a serene woodland setting perfect for riverside, meadow, and woodland walks, where you might spot otters, kingfishers, and bluebells. Eggesford Forest is another diverse woodland with a network of paths, ideal for observing wildlife, wildflowers, and fungi throughout the year. The River Taw also provides scenic views through the Taw Valley.
What kind of walking or hiking opportunities are available near Ashreigney?
Ashreigney is an excellent base for walks. You can find a variety of routes, from easy strolls to more moderate hikes. For example, the Yeo Bridge serves as a meeting point for several footpaths, including the Devonshire Heartland Way, offering exploration into the Mid Devon countryside. For specific routes, you can find easy hikes like the 'Riverside Path – Eggesford Castle loop' or 'Heywood Forest Parking – View of Eggesford House loop' on the Easy hikes around Ashreigney guide. For more general hiking, explore the Hiking around Ashreigney guide.
Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities?
Many attractions around Ashreigney are suitable for families. Eggesford Forest is a great place for families to explore diverse woodlands and spot wildlife. All Saints Church, Eggesford, offers a peaceful historical visit. The River Torridge at Halsdon Nature Reserve provides lovely walks where children can enjoy nature and look for animals. Additionally, nearby attractions like War Horse Valley Country Farm Park, Made-Well CIC (a children's farm), and Quince Honey Farm offer more dedicated family experiences.
What is the best time of year to visit Ashreigney?
Ashreigney offers different charms throughout the year. Spring is beautiful with bluebells in places like Halsdon Nature Reserve, while autumn brings spectacular colors to the river areas. The woodlands, such as Eggesford Forest, are enjoyable in every season, offering diverse wildlife and fungi. Summer is ideal for longer walks and outdoor activities, while historical sites like Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey can be visited year-round.
Where can I find viewpoints with scenic vistas?
For scenic views, Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey is an excellent spot, as it overlooks the picturesque Taw Valley. The high Culm ridge on which Ashreigney is situated also provides rolling landscapes of farmland interspersed with wooded valleys, offering many natural viewpoints as you explore the footpaths.
Are there cycling routes available near Ashreigney?
Yes, there are several cycling routes for various skill levels in the vicinity. You can find challenging routes like the 'Chulmleigh to Barnstaple loop' or the 'Great Torrington and Tarka Trail Loop'. For a comprehensive list of options, refer to the Cycling around Ashreigney guide.
What are some unique or hidden gems in the Ashreigney area?
Beyond the main highlights, the deeply rural landscape itself holds many hidden gems. The old stone Yeo Bridge, used by local farm vehicles and hikers, is a charming, lesser-known spot that serves as a gateway to quiet footpaths. Exploring the smaller trails within Eggesford Forest or the tranquil corners of Halsdon Nature Reserve can also reveal peaceful, less-trafficked areas.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Ashreigney?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of history and nature. The imposing presence of Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey, even without its original structures, is often highlighted as a worthwhile historical experience. The diverse woodlands of Eggesford Forest and the serene environment of Halsdon Nature Reserve are loved for their walking opportunities and wildlife spotting. The peaceful atmosphere of historical sites like All Saints Church, Eggesford, also receives positive feedback.
Are there any local pubs or places to eat in Ashreigney?
Yes, for a taste of local culture and hospitality, The Bell Inn in Ashreigney is a popular local pub known for its delicious food and friendly atmosphere. It's a great spot to relax after exploring the area's attractions.
What are the main rivers in the Ashreigney area?
Ashreigney is uniquely situated on a high Culm ridge between two significant rivers: the River Taw and the River Torridge. The River Taw provides scenic views through the Taw Valley, overlooked by Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey, and is crossed by Yeo Bridge. The River Torridge flows through Halsdon Nature Reserve, offering tranquil riverside walks and wildlife observation.
Are there any museums or cultural collections nearby?
While Ashreigney itself is more focused on historical sites and natural beauty, there are interesting collections a short drive away. The Cobbaton Combat Collection, approximately 13 kilometers from the village, features themed exhibitions that might appeal to those interested in military history.
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