| Holiday cottage in Christow, Dartmoor, Devon |
| "Lovely week, shame about the weather. Thankful for the cosy cottage. Had a lovely meal at the Artichoke. Good location for walking. Would recommend Greenway, Killerton, Coleton Fishacre, underground passages, Cotehele and House of Marbles." | |
| October 2009 |
|
The pretty village of Christow is in the unspoilt and largely, undiscovered Teign Valley. It has two shops, two pubs and a post office.
The Artichoke pub, pictured right, dates back to the 12th Century and is literally a stones throw from the cottage. This cosy thatched inn has a friendly atmosphere and the food and local Dartmoor beer is recommended. Within a short drive, high above the village are three beautiful reservoirs, for walking, bird watching and fishing. It is very peaceful here and away from the crowds. Canonteign Falls is just a few minutes away and is worth a visit where all the family will find something to interest them. The Teign Valley Golf Club is also close by. There are 18 holes, it is open all year and the setting is picturesque. The cottage is well placed for touring. Christow is in the Dartmoor National Park on the eastern side, and the high moor is within easy reach. From the top of Haytor, one of the most popular rock tors, there is a panoramic view of the surrounding area, from rolling hills, woodland and coast. Dartmoor is a great place for joining in a guided walk, rock climbing and mountain biking. It boasts rare wildlife habitats, and the wild ponies wander freely. There is so much to explore in the area, wooded river valleys, interesting moorland towns, sleepy villages, quiet lanes and breathtaking scenery, historic buildings and Heritage Centres. There is a wealth of places to eat, cosy pubs, restaurants and tea shops. There are also many National Trust properties within easy reach: Castle Drogo, Finch Foundry, Buckland Abbey, Lydford Gorge, Fingle Bridge, Parke Estate and Steps Bridge. Exeter is a lovely city to explore. The Cathedral is dramatic, and its grounds are a popular spot to rest from shopping and sightseeing. There are museums, gardens, galleries and guided tours. Take a wander down to the Quay where you can stroll for miles along the river, or across to the canal. Devon has activities to suit all tastes such as the House of Marbles at Bovey Tracey, Quay West Waterpark at Paignton and the World of Countrylife in Exmouth. There are boat trips and river cruises, steam trains and wildlife parks. The coastline is within easy reach for wonderful beaches and cliff top walks. There are quaint fishing villages, busy resorts, and stretches of golden sands. Further interesting information about the Teign valley and surrounding area can be obtained from this BBC web page where Christow is mentioned and the Teign Valley is described as "one of Devon's most beautiful areas".
|
       |