Honiton History cont....

The hills in the neighbourhood with their gorse-clad commons, form veritable happy hunting grounds to naturalists, teeming as they do with all kinds of curious and rare flora and fauna, while the numerous tumuli and the remains of the Roman forts on Dumpton, Hembury Fort, and Dunscombe Castle on Gittisham Hill will prove of the greatest interest to the antiquarian.

The geologist will find it a district that repays a search. The lovely panoramic succession of views, extending to the coast on one hand, to Dartmoor on another, and to the swelling uplands of Exmoor in another quarter, to be obtained from the hills around, charm and delight all. Both the artist and photographer will find many charming spots in the hills and dales of the neighbourhood.

The healthfulness of the vale of Honiton is proved by the low death rate and the absence of zymotic diseases. The new waterworks, recently constructed on St. Cyres Hill, ensure an ample supply of good, pure water. Honiton makes an excellent centre for excursions. During the summer daily excursions run to Seaton, Lyme Regis, Sidmouth, Budleigh Salterton, Exmouth, etc.

With the advent of the rail motor came a much-improved service with Exeter, rendering it easy for the visitor to take daily trips to Dawlish, Teignmouth, and other South Coast watering places and parts of Dartmoor. There are also fast trains daily between Honiton and London.

There are a number of beautiful drives in the neighbourhood, and excellent posting accommodation is to be had. Motor trips can also be indulged in. The roads have been greatly improved during the past few years, and both cyclists and motorists will find that they compare favourably with many districts. Local maps, guides, etc., can be readily obtained, rendering the discovery and exploration of the natural beauties of the neighbourhood easy.

There are several places of historical interest in the district. Some distance down the Exeter road is the site of an ancient battlefield; St. Michael's Church, (dating from the 15th century) with its rood screen, stated to be the finest in the West; the numerous venerable village churches; the old Manor Houses in the district; the country hamlets with their wealth of legendary lore, all well repay the visit of the student of old-world places, customs, and habits. In Allhallows School the town possesses a fine public school.