Pictures of Zeal Monachorum

About Zeal Monachorum

Set amid the rolling agricultural heartland of Devon, Zeal Monachorum is the very epitome of the perfect, tranquil Devonian village. It was mentioned in the Doomsday Book of 1086, so we are assured of its long and illustrious history which goes way back in the mists of time.

Wandering around the country lanes you can peer at picturesque thatched cottages, with the prettiest of gardens and, sweeping well manicured lawns. You can linger in leafy lanes, taking pleasure at the variety of wild flowers among which flourish orchids, roses, primroses, campion and parsley. A visit to the ancient village church reveals much of interest. It is renowned for the magnificent Yew tree which dominates a churchyard littered with the graves of centuries. The church has a good clock tower, lovely old entrance porch and beautiful windows.

The water-meadows of the River Yeo are a delight, here you can find pleasant riverside walks where you can see many birds and enjoy river wildlife. The Waie Inn offers a pleasant place to relax for lunch or a delicious evening meal. The inn has thoughtfully provided facilities for children, apart from picnic tables there are animals, five a side football pitch, a pond and even a swimming pool.

At nearby Down St.Mary there is an excellent winery. The vines, laden with luscious grapes can be seen in a wonderful setting above the winding River Yeo. Visitors are welcome and tastings are offered.

This is an easy, relaxed village, a wonderful stopping place for exploring the beautiful Devon countryside.

Zeal Monachorum lies within easy driving distance of the matchless beauty of the hills, valleys and rivers of the Dartmoor National Park. The park is crammed with ancient moor-land villages, wildlife sites, and pre-historic monuments.