Sandford

Welcome to Sandford:

Sandford is a welcoming rural parish with a strong community spirit, set among the rolling hills of Mid Devon. The village is well‑served with amenities, including two pubs — The Rose and Crown and The Lamb Inn — a community‑run shop with Post Office, two recreation grounds and a tennis court. A dedicated footpath and cycleway links Sandford to Crediton via the scenic Millennium Green, making it easy to enjoy the surrounding countryside on foot or by bike.

Sandford is also home to several important historic estates. Among them is Dowrich Farm, an ancient castle site with a surviving 15th‑century gatehouse beside the Grade II listed Dowrich House. The Grade II listed school building from 1825 is notable for its classical Greek architecture and remarkably tall cob walls — thought to be the highest of their kind in the country. The parish church, St Swithun’s, contains traces of Saxon origins, with the majority of the structure dating from the 13th and 14th centuries. Its well‑known 16th‑century carved bench ends depict a variety of fascinating figures and motifs.

Sandford also has a modern claim to fame — actor Luke Treadaway grew up in the village, known for roles in Clash of the Titans (2010) and the Oscar‑nominated Unbroken (2014).

Local Experiences:

Sandford offers an inviting blend of heritage, countryside and community‑focused activities. Visitors can enjoy a meal or drink at either of the village’s traditional pubs, explore the historic church and surrounding footpaths, or make use of the recreation grounds and tennis court. The Millennium Green footpath/cycleway provides a safe, scenic route to Crediton, ideal for walkers, cyclists and families.

The village’s historic sites, including Dowrich Farm, the old school building and St Swithun’s Church, offer glimpses into centuries of local history, from medieval craftsmanship to Georgian and Victorian architecture. Sandford’s community‑run shop and Post Office add to the village’s welcoming charm, offering everyday essentials as well as local produce.

History & Places of Interest:

• Dowrich Farm: Features a surviving 15th‑century gatehouse beside the ancient manor house.
• 1825 School Building: Grade II listed, known for its classical Greek architectural style and exceptionally tall cob walls.
• St Swithun’s Church: With Saxon roots and 13th–14th century construction, it is best known for its 16th‑century carved bench ends.
• Luke Treadaway: Award‑winning actor who grew up in the village.

Events in Sandford:

Sandford hosts a lively calendar of community events throughout the year, including:

• Olde Worlde Street Markets – held in Church Street, including themed events such as a 1940s marketlde Worlde Street Markets held in Church Street. A 1940's themed Street Market is likely to take place in May 2020 to mark the 75^th Anniversary of V.E. Day.
• The Sandford Flower Show – held every August Bank Holiday Monday
• The Sandford School Strawberry Fair – held each July
• The Summer Scarecrow Trail – a family favourite
• The Christmas Tree Festival at Sandford Congregational Church

Acknowledgement: Image courtesy of Martin Bodman / Sandford: East Village / CC BY-SA 2.0