Attractions and Places To See around Cullompton - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Cullompton include a blend of historical sites, natural landscapes, and outdoor activities. This historic market town in Mid Devon offers rural charm, with the River Culm providing scenic walks and the nearby Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offering extensive trails. Visitors can explore ancient landmarks and enjoy various routes for walking and cycling.
Best attractions and places to see around Cullompton
- The most popular attractions is Culmstock Beacon Viewpoint, a historical site that offers far-reaching views across the Culm Valley. This flint hut was part of an Elizabethan early warning system against invasion.
- Another must-see spot is Grand Western Canal, an 11-mile stretch of waterway suitable for cycling and walking. Visitors can find cafes, picnic areas, and may observe horse-drawn barges.
- Visitors also love Exe Valley Railway Path, a cycle way that follows a section of a former railway line. This path offers an easy-to-follow route through the local countryside.
- Cullompton is known for its historical sites, scenic viewpoints, and dedicated cycling routes. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient beacons to tranquil canal paths.
- The attractions around Cullompton are appreciated by the komoot community, with 21 upvotes and 5 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn
Highlight • Historical Site
The Mill is now also home to shops and eateries. With its gorgeous riverside location it is a lovely place to start or finish a walk, or stop partway along to refuel.
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Grand Western Canal
Highlight (Segment) • Structure
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Killerton Park Cycle Track
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
The track can get a bit muddy in the winter months but is well surfaced underneath with a hard packed gravel surface.
Definitely not one for road bikes unless it's very dry!
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Exe Valley Railway Path
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
It was almost entirely dismantled after ceasing operation and sections now hold footpaths. This stretch uses the section of the line as it curved round to Stoke Canon, joining the main Bristol line.
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Culmstock Beacon Viewpoint
Highlight • Historical Site
The beacon is the flint hunt which was part of an early warning system against invasion during Elizabethan times. Most notably warning against the Spanish Armada. Fires were lit on the beacons when ships were seen, the series of beacons reaching from the south west to London.
You can go into the beacon, which was rebuilt in 1870 and look up at the sky where the fire would have been lit.
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Tips from the Community
Great walks there is many ways to get to the Beacon, it's very cold up there and the ground was rocky wet and very muddy, good boots needed, you can see Dartmoor Exmoor and Somerset on a clear day.
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A good few tracks and paths up here to explore, it never gets old
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Using the power of moving water to drive a mill wheel is an ancient invention of the human spirit of discovery, the origins of which can be traced back to times long past. Thanks to such a construction, human or animal muscle power could be easily replaced by the power of the natural elements through a watercourse - natural or artificially created - in order to grind grain into corn or press oil from fruit, for example. There are essentially two different ways of driving watermills: * Either the flowing water simply hits the blades of the water wheel from below to set it in motion; or * the water is guided above the wheel - usually through a so-called "mill channel" - and falls onto the blades; this type of construction is more efficient due to natural gravity.
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Moderate trail for everyone to explore and enjoy
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Culmstock Beacon provides a stunning viewpoint south to the River Culm valley and the historic village of Culmstock. The Beacon is on Black Down
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High on the southwest point of Blackdown Common is Culmstock Beacon. It is one of a chain of Elizabethan beacons used for lighting fires to warn of advancing enemies, for example, The Spanish Armada. The beehive-shaped structure was built of flint. It was rebuilt in 1870 after the collapse of the earlier one. Culmstock Beacon is a wildlife haven with stunning views, particularly in the late summer when the bell-heather is in bloom. Access via public bridleway.
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Very good walk with dog easy to follow. Last bit on quiet country lane.
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Looking out across the Culm Valley, Culmstock Beacon is a wonderful place to take in far reaching views. You can see almost to Exeter on a clear day. The beacon is the flint hunt which was part of an early warning system against invasion during Elizabethan times. Most notably warning against the Spanish Armada. Fires were lit on the beacons when ships were seen, the series of beacons reaching from the south west to London. You can go into the beacon, which was rebuilt in 1870 and look up at the sky where the fire would have been lit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in and around Cullompton?
Cullompton boasts a rich history. You can visit the impressive 15th-century St Andrew's Church, known for its carved sandstone tower and rare medieval oak Golgotha. The Grade I listed Jacobean mansion, The Walronds, offers insights into local history through guided tours and events. For a broader overview, follow the Cullompton Heritage Trail, which guides visitors to landmarks like the Old Bull Ring and the Cullompton Leat.
Where can I learn about Cullompton's industrial heritage?
Just outside Cullompton, in Uffculme, you can visit Coldharbour Mill. This is one of the oldest working wool mills in the country, established in 1797, and still operates today. It offers an immersive look into Devon's industrial past through guided tours, exhibitions, and craft workshops.
Are there any scenic viewpoints in the Cullompton area?
Yes, for panoramic views, head to Culmstock Beacon Viewpoint. This historical flint hut, once part of an Elizabethan early warning system, offers far-reaching vistas across the Culm Valley and, on a clear day, you can see almost to Exeter, Dartmoor, Exmoor, and Somerset.
What natural attractions are there near Cullompton?
The River Culm provides scenic riverside walks, perfect for picnics and wildlife spotting. A short drive away, the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) offers stunning landscapes, woodlands, meadows, and river valleys for hiking and cycling. Additionally, the Grand Western Canal is an 11-mile stretch of waterway ideal for peaceful walks and cycling.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Cullompton?
Absolutely! For an exhilarating day out, Diggerland Devon allows both children and adults to operate real diggers and dumpers. Another great option is Killerton House and Gardens, a National Trust property with extensive gardens, woodland trails, and period rooms to explore. The Grand Western Canal also offers family-friendly activities like walking, cycling, and even horse-drawn barge rides.
What outdoor activities and trails are available near Cullompton?
The area around Cullompton is excellent for outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling along the Grand Western Canal or the Exe Valley Railway Path. For hiking, the Blackdown Hills AONB offers numerous trails, including those leading to Culmstock Beacon Viewpoint. You can find more detailed routes for various sports in guides like MTB Trails around Cullompton, Road Cycling Routes around Cullompton, and Easy hikes around Cullompton.
Are there easy walking routes suitable for all abilities near Cullompton?
Yes, several easy walking routes are available. The Grand Western Canal offers a flat, 11-mile path suitable for leisurely strolls. The Exe Valley Railway Path is another easy-to-follow route through the countryside. For more options, explore the Easy hikes around Cullompton guide, which includes routes like the Wild Garlic Path at Killerton.
What is the best time of year to visit Cullompton's attractions?
Cullompton's attractions can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for outdoor activities like walking and cycling along the River Culm or the Grand Western Canal, and for exploring the Blackdown Hills AONB. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, while historical sites like St Andrew's Church and The Walronds are accessible in all seasons. Some trails, like the Killerton Park Cycle Track, can get muddy in winter, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
Are there any unique local experiences or 'hidden gems' near Cullompton?
Beyond the main attractions, consider visiting Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn, an 18th-century working water mill that now houses shops and eateries in a gorgeous riverside location. It's a lovely spot to start or finish a walk or enjoy a traditional Devon cream tea. The Cullompton Farmers' Market is also a popular spot to find fresh, locally sourced ingredients and experience local culture.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Cullompton?
Visitors frequently praise the blend of historical interest and natural beauty. The far-reaching views from Culmstock Beacon Viewpoint are a highlight, as is the peaceful experience of cycling or walking along the Grand Western Canal. Many appreciate the well-preserved historical buildings and the opportunity to connect with nature on the various trails.
Are there places to eat or drink near the attractions?
Yes, many attractions have nearby options. The Grand Western Canal has cafes and picnic areas along its route. Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn offers a restaurant and gift shop. In Cullompton town centre, you'll find various pubs and cafes, and The Hayridge Centre also includes an on-site café.
Can I find wheelchair-accessible places around Cullompton?
While specific accessibility details vary, the relatively flat paths along the Grand Western Canal are generally suitable for wheelchairs. It's always recommended to check specific venue websites or contact them directly for detailed accessibility information before your visit.
Most popular routes around Cullompton
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