Colyton

The small town of Colyton in the attractive county of Devon is located in the lush Axe Valley with the River Coly flowing through its centre. An ancient settlement was established here around 700 and grows sufficiently to warrant mention in the Domesday Book of 1086. Later the town was to become an important agricultural centre and market town; prospering with corn and saw mills as well as an iron foundry and tannery. By the 15^th century, Colyton was the fourth richest town in Devon.

Colyton is within a conservation area and is perfectly preserved and cared for with pretty little streets, interesting stone and thatch houses dating from medieval to modern times and a good choice of interesting shops, galleries and pubs. Visitors will notice the street pattern here is circular, reflecting the early Saxon plan. Within the town and area are visitor and cultural attractions as well as historic sites like St. Andrew's Church that stands where a church has stood since Saxon times. The Norman structure includes an unusual octagonal tower that was installed in the 15^th century.