Preserving the Past: Heritage Across Mid Devon

Step back in time and discover the stories, people and traditions that have shaped Mid Devon. From grand historic houses and fascinating heritage tours to local history exhibitions, author talks and traditional cider-making experiences, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the area’s rich past this autumn. Whether you’re uncovering hidden histories during Heritage Open Days or delving deeper into Devon’s cultural heritage through special events and workshops, Mid Devon offers memorable experiences for history enthusiasts, heritage lovers and curious visitors alike.

Heritage Open Days:

Discover Mid Devon’s rich heritage during Heritage Open Days, taking place from 11th to 20th September 2026. As part of England’s largest festival of history and culture, visitors can enjoy free access to historic sites, guided tours, exhibitions and community events that bring local stories to life. This year’s theme, Everyday Histories, celebrates the people, traditions and working lives that have shaped our towns and villages, offering a unique opportunity to explore Mid Devon’s heritage, uncover hidden gems and connect with the history of the area

Some of the Heritage Open Days events being held in Mid Devon include:

• Kightshayes Heritage Open Day– 12th September 10am-5pm:Wander through acres of beautiful gardens and parkland in Devon, all wrapped around a wonderfully quirky Gothic Revival house designed by William Burges, full of surprises and character at every turn. The formal and woodland gardens are packed with colour and interest, featuring over 1,200 plant species you won’t find anywhere else. Out in the wider parkland, you can stretch your legs on peaceful woodland walks, take in stunning Devon views, and spot the Exmoor Horn sheep grazing across the farmland.
• Fursdon House Open day– 16th and 17th September Fascinating free guided tours of the Fursdon historic family house, with beautiful gardens to explore, also for free. The historic Coach Hall tearoom will also be open to enjoy delicious home bakes or a Devonshire cream tea (tearoom charges apply).
• River Culm Walking Tour– 17th September 5:30pm: Guided River Culm walk with Lucy Jefferson, Senior Culm Catchment Officer for the Connecting the Culm team. Walking from Coldharbour Mill, we will discover how the river has been shaped by people, the habitats and species that depend on it today, and how the Connecting the Culm project is helping people work together to improve the river’s health and resilience. Lucy will share insights into the work of the Connecting the Culm project, a partnership working with communities, landowners and organisations across the catchment to reduce flood risk and build a more resilient future for the River Culm and the communities connected to it.
• From Hearth to Highstreet– 13th September 2pm-5pm From Hearth to High Street celebrates everyday life in the village, capturing the people, homes, businesses, streets and community events that have shaped Bampton over the years. A continuous visual presentation showcases a carefully chosen selection of archive images, offering a glimpse into the village’s rich social and architectural history. It also features adverts and items from life up to the 1960s.

For more information on these events and to see the other events in Mid Devon visit: Mid Devon.

Events:

Beyond Heritage Open Days, Mid Devon offers a variety of events that showcase the area’s heritage, from historic celebrations and guided walks to exhibitions and community gatherings.

The Bookery Presents: Ian Mortimer – Through the Windows of an Ordinary House:

Sunday Times bestselling author of the acclaimed Time Traveller’s Guides Dr Ian Mortimer will be at The Bookery at 7pm on Friday 18th September to celebrate the publication of his remarkable new book ‘Through the Windows of an Ordinary House: A History of England’ in conversation with Catherine Courtenay, Editor of Devon Life magazine.

Set in Mortimer’s house on the edge of Dartmoor, the book blends the broad sweep of 900 years of national history with the intimate detail of local lives and changing daily experience of a rural Devon community. Rich in character, atmosphere and insight, it is social history on an unusually human scale, revealing the changing world through the eyes of those who lived within it.

The Bookery Presents: Amy Jeffs – Arthur: A New Life:

Amy will be joined in conversation by Mark Norman, founder of The Folklore Podcast, for an engaging discussion exploring the enduring power of the King Arthur legend. Together, they will delve into the rich world of Arthurian mythology, British folklore and medieval history, uncovering the stories, characters and cultural influences that have shaped one of Britain’s most enduring legends. Drawing on her expertise as a medievalist and storyteller, Amy Jeffs brings fresh insight to the myths and historical traditions surrounding King Arthur, offering readers a fascinating new perspective on a figure who continues to inspire generations.

The Bookery Presents: Lisa Schneidau & Rebecca Beattie – Roots & Rituals:

The Bookery are delighted to welcome acclaimed Dartmoor authors Lisa Schneidau and Rebecca Beattie, who share a deep connection to Dartmoor and a fascination with the ways people have long understood and celebrated the natural world through story, myth and imagination. Inspired by their new books, Tree Folk and The Season of Frost and Fire, their conversation will range from ancient woodland tales and seasonal customs to winter rituals, folklore and forgotten goddesses. Lisa Schneidau’s Tree Folk takes readers on a journey through the wheel of the year, uncovering the folk tales, songs, myths and traditions associated with the trees of Britain and Ireland. Rebecca Beattie’s The Season of Frost and Fire explores the hidden magic of winter through thirteen seasonal rituals, folklore and stories of transformation.

Heritage Cider-Making Retreat:

Led by the award-winning team from Rull Orchard, a sustainable Devon cidery renowned for its traditional orchards and artisan cider, this unique weekend offers a hands-on introduction to the craft of cider making. Explore heritage apple varieties, orchard management, pressing, fermentation, and blending techniques while discovering the history and culture behind one of Devon’s most cherished rural traditions. Throughout the retreat, enjoy practical workshops, guided tastings of distinctive Devon cider and perry, and fascinating discussions with expert cider makers. Whether you’re new to cider making or already a passionate enthusiast, you’ll leave with new skills, fresh inspiration, and a deeper appreciation for Devon’s orchard heritage. Alongside the workshops, guests can enjoy comfortable accommodation, time to explore Ashley Court’s historic grounds, and exceptional meals showcasing the finest local and seasonal ingredients. The weekend includes a special celebratory dinner prepared by Gerald Pospichil.

Inspired to discover more of Mid Devon’s fascinating past? Explore our dedicated History & Heritage page for even more historic houses, museums, ancient monuments, cultural attractions and heritage experiences. Whether you’re tracing local stories, uncovering rural traditions or planning your next day out, you’ll find plenty of ways to connect with the rich history that makes Mid Devon so special.