PLOVERSFIELD · HEMYOCK · DEVON
Places to Visit from Ploversfield
Ploversfield sits in the heart of the Blackdown Hills, close to the Devon–Somerset border. From medieval ruins and country walks to aviation heritage, historic houses, Exeter and the coast, there is plenty to explore — whether you want to stay close to Hemyock or make a day of it.
ON OUR DOORSTEP
Discover Hemyock & the Blackdown Hills
Hemyock Castle
Right here in Hemyock is one of the village’s hidden historical treasures. The remains of this rare moated late-14th-century castle surround a much older manor house and tell a story stretching through medieval England and the Civil War.
Hemyock Castle is privately owned and opens to visitors on selected days, so guests should check current visiting arrangements before setting out.
Hemyock & the Blackdown Hills
The Blackdown Hills are a designated National Landscape. From or close to Hemyock, explore the surrounding countryside, local lanes, villages and established walking routes.
Choose a shorter wander near the village or a longer countryside walk, according to the weather and the time you have.
DUNKESWELL
Dunkeswell: Abbey & Aviation
Dunkeswell Abbey
Dunkeswell Abbey was founded as a Cistercian monastery in 1201 by William Brewer, with monks from Forde Abbey. It remained in use until the Dissolution of the Monasteries.
Surviving historic remains mark the site of the former abbey. There is also an established walking route from Hemyock through the Madford Valley towards the Dunkeswell Abbey ruins — a way to combine local history with the countryside.
Dunkeswell Aerodrome & Wartime Heritage
Today’s Dunkeswell Aerodrome occupies a former Second World War airfield with an important wartime aviation history, including anti-submarine operations connected with the Battle of the Atlantic.
The aerodrome remains active for general aviation, while the local heritage centre interprets its wartime history. Flying experiences and training may be available from operators based at the aerodrome; check current arrangements directly, as availability is not guaranteed.
ACROSS THE SOMERSET BORDER
Wellington & Somerset
Wellington
Nearby Wellington is a Somerset market town for shopping, cafés and exploring the local area. It is an option for a town visit alongside time in the surrounding countryside.
Wellington Monument
The prominent National Trust monument commemorates the Duke of Wellington and overlooks the surrounding countryside. Its setting offers extensive views across the landscape.
Access inside and climbing the monument are possible when open; check the National Trust’s current visiting arrangements before travelling.
A LITTLE FURTHER AFIELD
Country Houses & Exeter
Killerton
Killerton is a National Trust estate with a historic house, gardens, parkland and a wider estate to explore. It offers a day out combining the house with time outdoors.
Exeter
Exeter is an attractive historic city for a day out, with shopping, historic streets and the cathedral area to explore at your own pace.
Exeter Cathedral
One of the city’s principal historic landmarks, Exeter Cathedral brings together centuries of history. Check its official visitor information when planning your day.
THE DEVON & JURASSIC COAST
A Day by the Sea
For a change of scenery, head towards the coast. These are a few possible destinations for a day by the sea, from East Devon seaside towns to a longer excursion to Lyme Regis.
Sidmouth
A traditional East Devon seaside town with coastal scenery — an option for a day beside the sea.
Beer
An attractive coastal village on the East Devon coast, for a different pace from the larger seaside towns.
Seaton
Spend time by the coast and explore the surrounding East Devon landscape.
Lyme Regis
A historic seaside town on the Jurassic Coast, well suited to a longer excursion from Ploversfield.
Not Sure Where to Go? Ask Us
We know the local area well and are always happy to suggest somewhere that suits the weather, the time you have available and what you enjoy doing. Whether you are interested in history, walking, the countryside, aviation, shopping or a day by the sea, just ask us.
Make Ploversfield Your Base
Stay in the Blackdown Hills and explore Devon and Somerset at your own pace.