Brought up in Bickleigh, John Wright spent many years exploring Tiverton and moved to the centre in 1984. He owned a house in Gold St. supposedly linked to Tiverton Castle by a legendary tunnel. Recently married to Louise at Bickleigh Castle, John is on the Lion's Carnival Committee and was formerly bass drummer for the Tiverton Town Band.

Mention Tiverton to most people in Devon and they will respond with 'Blundell's School' and 'John Heathcoat' (The famous 19th century textile industrialist).

Edward The Peacemaker

Yet there is so much more to discover in this thriving industrial town set on the banks of the gloriously scenic Exe and Lowman rivers.

As you wander down the busy streets you'll find many interesting original properties, as world wars and modern planning developments fortunately left us alone.

I love it's individual circular layout dictated by centuries of history, now jealously guarded by careful planning policy.

The Clock Tower

Over the centuries it was burnt to the ground several times, until the incumbents had the bright idea of resorting to brick, stone and slate and, no doubt with great relief, laid the foundations for the modern day town.

The two fords that made up the name 'Twyfordtown' provided water for living and then for the woollen trade that sprang up from this meeting place. The trade still lives on with the ever present markets continuing to this day.

Continue John's tour of Tiverton....