Pictures of Honiton

About Honiton

Honiton, famed for the beautiful lace to which this gracious old Market town gave its name, is also known as the gateway to East Devon.

Exquisite hand made lace has been made in Honiton and adjacent villages for over 400 years and it is to this commodity that the town owes it's trading links with London. So eagerly was this fine lace sought by the aristocracy and ladies of fashion that it was soon in demand by the noted London dressmakers of the day. The ladies required just about everything from a beautifully adorned lace handkerchief and delicate under-garments to the very finest lace after-noon and evening gowns. The gentlemen, not to be outdone had lace rufflets and cuffs for their shirts. Many antique lace garments are on display in All Hallows museum.

This interesting little town is also home to a pottery industry and proudly boasts a collectors society which promotes the study and collection of pottery made in the Honiton and Crown Dorset Potteries.

Honiton is a thriving market town and although much of it's prosperity is owed to its' illustrious Lace making industry, to-day it is also a highly respected centre for the antiques trade.

There is a fine Parish church in which a 17th century Black Marble tomb to Thomas Marwood, physician to Queen Elizabeth 1 can be seen. Marwood House, Honitons oldest building, dates from 1619. Many other old and interesting buildings exist throughout the town with nearly all the varied styles of english architecture being represented.

The countryside around here is delightful and plays host to many country persuits which range from Pony Trekking to Golf. The shopping experience is excellent, this town is full of tempting little shops and there is a regular market. As you would imagine with Honiton's close proximity to the coast, delicious sea-food is on offer at most local inns and restuarants.