Pictures of Chagford

About Chagford

An old stannery town which takes its name from the old English, meaning a ford covered by gorse. The town gained its prosperity from mining until late in the 16th century. The fact that it lies amidst beautiful moors, woods and rivers of the Dartmoor National Park adds to its enchantment, and today this charming unspoilt little town is a premier tourist destination of Dartmoor.

A walk around the town reveals a wealth of Tudor and Georgian houses, and there is a picturesque 16th-century bridge over the River Teign. Endecott House, is believed to date 16th-century. It was named after John Endecott, one of the Pilgrim Fathers who sailed for America and later, he became Governor of Massachusetts. The building housed the school for over 300 years.

The town's market cross now forms a War Memorial in the churchyard of St.Michael's church. This is a pretty churchyard which has historic tombs and gravestones. The church is quite ancient, it was dedicated in 1261. The interior shimmers with beautiful woodwork, has impressive stone arches, and magnificent windows. There is a most beautiful alter screen and the Lady chapel dates from 1481. Calm and peaceful with many treasures, this is a church in which you should take time to look around, and afterwards spend a few moments in quiet contentment and thanksgiving for the beauty of the church and the surrounding countryside.

North-west lies Gidleigh; where you can see the remains of a small castle and other pre-historic sites. Nearby is Schorhill, site of the finest stone circles on Dartmoor.

With haunting scenery, quaint cottages, pretty streets and alleyways Chagford has something for everyone. There are pleasant shops to browse and excellent inns and public houses for that quiet drink and tasty meal at the end of a pleasant day exploring all that this delightful town has to offer. It is the perfect destination for both coast and countryside, a place from which you will take many joyous memories.