This Itinerary is best for people looking for: Shopping, Food & Drinks and Walking.
The opportunity to start thinking about our Summer plans is becoming more and more exciting! With Tavistock fully reopening on Monday, it only seems appropriate to highlight the incredible things to do in and around the town that everyone can enjoy. Whether you are popping down for a Staycation or you are local, you may find our blog series, 'A Perfect Day In Tavistock By - ' of interest!
Starting with Insideout, you will be able to hear from the businesses of Tavistock what their perfect itineraries are for a day in Tavistock. This is a great way to hear recommendations from true, local experts and discover fun and unique days that you definitely won't find in any travel guide.
So, let's get started! Nicky, the owner of Insideout is kicking off this blog series with her favourite way to enjoy Tavistock. Insideout is a beautiful lifestyle shop located at 4 West Street, and you can enjoy browsing stylish, yet unique home interior products, gifts, jewellery and much more!
Q. Tell us a little about your background and why you love Tavistock.
A. My husband, Paul and I moved to the Tavistock area just over 18 years ago after leaving jobs in the city of London to set up our own business, Insideout. We visited Over 270 towns to identify places that we wanted to live and work, Tavistock was in our top three. Our desire to be in Tavistock was due to the feel of the town! It has some truly beautiful historic buildings and a great mix of small independent retailers, with the added bonus of a successful Pannier Market. We have never regretted the move.
Being on the edge of Dartmoor makes Tavistock a really special place. From certain positions in the town you can see the swell of residential buildings and shops against the setting of the stark and dramatic moorland. Yet if you are happy to drive you have access to the Devon and Cornwall coast in about 40 minutes... What 'moor' could you want?
Q. How would you spend your time in Tavistock for the perfect day out?
A. A perfect day in Tavistock to me is exploring the unique businesses of the town and enjoying walks in the surrounding area.
I'd start by wandering along West street and Brook street, enjoying the mix of small, unique independent retailers amongst a few (but not too many) of the more know national brands. I always like to make a stop at Country Cheeses and De la Torres in The Pannier Market Courtyard. These are perfect places to stock up on cheese and olives to enjoy when you return home or to your accommodation whilst enjoying a break in Tavistock.
Once I finish my shopping spree, I follow it with a leisurely lunch at one of my favourite places to eat! Here is a list of my top 4:
The Kitchen- They do a wonderful Eggs Benedict, amongst other delicious meals made with fresh produce.
Churchlane - Their pizzas and sharing boards are truly mouthwatering! Set in the old telephone exchange, the atmosphere is beautiful, historic and not to mention friendly. It also overlooks the Churchyard and the Town Square, offering a perfect scenic spot of the town.
The Cornish Arms - This is a great spot for lunch, dinner or just a couple of drinks. They have won so many awards for their fabulous food and are one of the Top 50 Gastro Pubs in the UK.
The Bedford Hotel - They have the most amazing garden to enjoy a drink or a bite to eat. They also have characterful lounges filled with wonderful history - perfect for enjoying a coffee or an afternoon tea on those rainy days (you never know with British Summer weather!).
I also love a moorland walk! Amongst my favourites are ones around the Burrator Reservoir. Yennadon in particular is wonderful with its far reaching views of Cornwall and Devon. The real beauty of this patch is exploring different routes and stumbling upon some of the most wonderful views you are likely to find.
Another favourite thing to do is to get out on the water on a paddle board. It is wonderfully peaceful and makes you feel at one with your surroundings. Lopwell Dam is about 20 minutes from Tavistock and is a great place to have a paddle down the river. On several occasions I have had the pleasure of catching glimpses of kingfishers and even a seal!
Another place I love to visit when time allows is The Garden House, enjoying the grounds and all the wonderful flowers there.
There is no better way to explore Tavistock than with the recommendations from the people who live and work in the town. Each business owner has their own unique way of enjoying the town, so make sure to keep an eye out for our Itinerary blog posts to discover the many ways you can explore Tavistock like a true local.
See Itineraries section here.